Log Day 10: Another day,another longitude - by Paul
Pipistrelle - where are we now?
Bob and Elaine Hazell
Tue 1 Dec 2009 19:42
18:15.38N 38:48.50W
Last night started under clear skies and a full moon
with perfect visibility. Flying fish glittered as they fled the bows, though no
more have landed on deck. Perhaps they can see us too well. However, later
clouds developed and we were subject to our first night squalls - strong gusts
and warm torrential rain - the likely pattern to come. The radar shows them
stacking up clearly and allows sails to be shortened in anticipation. This is
not the same as the Channel - here no sooner wet than dry again, even in the
early hours. During daylight the Sun is near constant, and the swell has begun
to settle to a rythm we might soon find normal.
We missed a 180 mile run yesterday by a fraction, so
determination stands to make it today - so far so good with steady 20 kt+ winds.
We are going well and the seas are a bit disturbed so no fishing this evening -
will try again tomorrow in forecast lighter winds. So far no one catching tuna -
must try harder.
We are having steak tonight to celebrate the half-way
mark. The expressed desire for fresh peas, chips and onion fritters by a certain
crewmember will be fulfilled in the imagination only, but this will be the first
red meat for the crew since departure - with what effect to be revealed in due
course.
Shortly evening drinks will be served, perhaps with
canapes. The test is to throw them down one's throat and not across the saloon -
a fitting challenge to end the day.
All well
Bob Elaine Nick Alan and
Paul