Early Aweigh

Where Next?
Bob Williams
Thu 7 Mar 2019 08:28

Noon Position: 37 35.3 S  139 57.3 E
Course: SE  Speed: 4 knots
Wind: W, F3 – gentle breeze
Sea: slight. Swell: SW, 3m.
Weather: mostly sunny, mild
Day’s run: 34 nm

It was a rolly night at anchor, however, I wanted to be out in the bay so as to take advantage of the wind when it turned.  I was expecting this to be at about six but the northerly change came in earlier at about 3.30. It was light but sufficient to put us on a lee shore with a small chop, never a comfortable feeling.  I judged the breeze sufficient to sail to so I shortened in the cable, set the main, then weighed and sailed from anchor.  Given the issues with the BRM, I will be using the engine to the absolute minimum, which is pretty much my normal modus operandi in any event.

Once under way, we put in a couple of tacks while Oli continued to sleep soundly, clearing South Reef, then bearing away to the south west in the light air and large swell. For the most part the wind was sufficient to keep the sails full but the large three-meter swell continues to run and likely won’t abate much for the next day or so. Hopefully the wind will stay with us at least long enough for the swell to die off.  I am not particularly optimistic, nonetheless …

All is well.