If it wasn’t obvious before it is now.

 

We will NOT be crossing the Atlantic before the New Year.

Another low decided to reappear across the Atlantic from Florida and has to work it’s way out of the system. This all means winds all over the place along the Trade winds route for the next few days. It is unlikely that anything would change before the 10th December at the earliest. No one is interested in having Xmas at sea in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

 

The idea is to reform asp after Xmas and depart immediately.

Traditionally the Trade winds are better in January and February anyway. One expects easterly winds of 15 to 20 knots 95% of the time then. We will spend a few days in England over Xmas but we are reluctant to leave the boat too long here.

 

Most people and flotillas tend to leave late November/December as a balance to try and get as much time in the Caribbean (even Xmas) as possible and still be able to sail back to Europe in June if wished. You just have to have a little luck with the weather at this time. This years ARC has been plagued with the lack of wind or wind from the wrong direction as it happens. But if you have planned parties and events lined up for 280 boats in St Lucia then you better have a good reason NOT to leave for any reason other than very severe weather. Boring weather just means more engine use and drifting around for the participants - not a reason to cancel or postpone venues, catering and flights.
Still, reading the blogs everyone has had a great time and an amazing experience.

 

Les and I will settle down to exploring Tenerife and eating some of the time depend provisions!