Day 15 of Atlantic

Swiftwing
Sun 9 Dec 2007 22:17
N 17:49.14, W 040:40.10

Well folks, it gives me great pleasure to announce that Swiftwing is now officially an SFV (Sailing Fishing Vessel). After much heartache and trying, I managed to land a good sized Dorado on the after deck this evening, just before tea. I had been trying various different combinations of the trusty lures and whole flying fish but in the end it was good old “Marigold” that came up trumps. (Photo to follow) I would estimate the fish to be approximately 10 lbs in weight but as a gesture of goodwill and the hope of further success, we decided to throw him back to fight another day. Besides, Dougie's wonder curry was just about to be served up, al fresco on the bridge. I didn’t want to miss my share of this much talked about culinary delight(?)

Nothing new on the sailing front, The skipper decided to put up the main and stow the jib today in an effort to get a wee bit more speed. This gave us about 1 extra knot but we had to sail slightly farther south than desired. We are still north of out latitude so no problems there. If the winds keep up their strength, we should arrive at Rodney Bay with a day or so to spare but probably too late for any diving activities (none 24 hour before flying). It was another nice day here with sun most of the afternoon. I was unable to get an accurate temperature reading however as someone hid my dive computer! I believe there is a conspiracy on board to hide my stuff as things keep gong missing. It must be the same conspirators as at home. Either that or it is the first signs of cabin feever setting in.

Must go now as I am on watch at midnight.

Neil