Cagliari (The North-West Wind doth blow - even harder)

Pyxis
Karen & Richard
Sat 22 Nov 2008 00:00

Saturday 22nd November – Cagliari (The North-West Wind doth blow - even harder L )

39:12.064N 9:07.510E

 

The wind continued howling overnight, abating only for brief periods. 

 

Today the wind has lived up to the forecast and increased further – we breakfasted in a near gale (F7) then gale (F8) and by lunchtime it was severe gale (F9) – our windex is showing an averaged maximum wind speed of 49.6 knots (F10) – since this is an average, it must have been worse at times.  The only good news is that it is pretty much on the nose.

 

Fortunately the weather has remained dry but the wind is sending quite a fetch down the length of the harbour to the outer end of the marina.  The outer boats and pontoons are bucking quite strongly at times. 

 

At one time the wind direction changed slightly and we were being blown back far enough to touch the pontoon in the strongest gusts (and we are moored a long way off!). With things not improving we started the engine, eased the stern lines and motored forward – we then managed to pull in a little more mooring line at the front, allowing us to then drop back clear of the pontoon.  All this whilst it was blowing over 35 knots made it quite exciting.

 

Both marina staff and other liveaboards have been wandering around the marina checking on boats and helping where needed.  One boat started to unfurl and blow out its genoa – it was a close call whether they would be able to secure it before it took out the stays and mast; fortunately it was safely recovered.

 

Sadly, there has been a boat casualty in the boat yard of the neighbouring marina.  One of the yachts in a cradle on the hard has been blown over onto its side, taking out its mast and stays.  Not sure it will be recoverable – there were no other boats nearby so it was only that one damaged. 

 

Late this afternoon the wind eased to mid-20s – amazing how restful a F6 can feel.  Unfortunately after dinner this evening it has built again and is back gusting 30 to mid 40s again.

 

We may not be going ashore for the party in the bar this evening – at least not without a harness and lifejacket!  Sleep will be a luxury too.

 

 

Cagliari:  Windy weather

 

© Pyxis 2008