From: Steve Wooltorton

Sent: Sunday, July 13, 2014 7:27 PM

To: sjw+diary-797693 {CHANGE TO AT} mailasail {DOT} com

Subject: We're off!

60:55.4N 05:59.6W

After topping up water, diesel and and getting rid of litter, we set off in drizzle and thickish mist at 10.00 a.m. It takes about 45 mins to remove fenders and get the sails and wind-vane steering gear all set up, especially if a novice (TT) is hoisting the sail.

The cloud which enveloped the island took a few hours to clear, as did the banks of fog which we sailed and motored through. It is now 7.00 p.m. and the island is still visible behind us – now magnificently proud but distant on the horizon, all cloud having evaporated.

We have been motoring most of the day, but helped by a freshening SW wind, on which we are now sailing without engine power and making over 4 knots. Despite keeping a lookout, there have been no sightings of cetaceans yet. Our faithful friends, those old men of the sea – Fulmar petrels, are again in attendance. Lots of puffins were on the sea or flying low over it for the first few hours after leaving land and there have been a good few gannets and one or two bonxies (great skuas).

It is lovely and uplifting to be in sunshine again, and great to be under way. Steve has just dished up a very respectable macaroni cheese, followed by rice pud and tinned tangerines. Supported by two slings, he is now swaying in the galley doing the dishes while TT is slaving away over a warm laptop. Someone has to do it.

We are both enthralled with the Faeroes and would like to think of returning some day, albeit using different transport. The scenery and the people make it a special place.

Now looking forward to Orkney, probably landing at Stromness.

Greetings and best wishes from both of us.

T&S