35.29:78N 050.29.230W
Tioram 4
Tina & Tony
Thu 20 May 2010 16:23
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Date 20 May Time 11:50 boat time
Hello from Tioram
The last 24 hours has been more
eventful than the few days before. We motored through the afternoon
but as a slight breeze blew up John demonstrated to the skipper the finer points
of motor sailing, managing to get almost 6 knots at 1400 revs by using the sails
and the apparent wind. This technique was new to Tioram. Soon however there was
no need for the engine at all as the expected new wind filled in and we set off
at 6 knots north west. The wind veered and strengthened and by midnight we are
again pointing to the Azores at well over 7 knots. We hope that this wind will
last for a few days. We crossed the 1100 miles to go mark at 8:00 am and should
be under 1000 miles by midnight. Not quite close enough to put the beers in the
fridge but getting there. John has been waxing lyrically about what he
will do to a bottle of Chablis particularly since he has given his liver a rest
for 2 weeks.
The day is again perfect with blue sky a
spectacular sunset and rise. Boat time is going to adjusted today as it is now
light 3:20 in the morning. The moon was also up for the 8:00 to
midnight watch making the night very short indeed.
Yesterday was a feast of wild life with a large
school of dolphins again but this time captured on video as well. We saw several
giant turtles all paddling away without a care. We think they return to
the same beach to breed each year so they have over 1500 miles to go from here.
Just as it was getting dark last night John noticed a splash about half a mile
on the port side. We looked again and then saw a whale about 25 ft long climb
out of the waves and crash into the sea several times. Too quick unfortunately
to get a pickie.
Skipper is getting so good at sunsights with his
sextant that he is thinking of turning off all electronics and going " au
naturalle". It was a boat maintenance day as well wih a new starboard spinny
halyard and various other bits polished and tightened. All too technical for
your correspondent. So the good ship is in great shape all be it a little low on
treats. Appetites were certainly fulfilled last night by a major effort in the
galley by Malte assisted by Tina who rustled up an enourmous chilli and rice.
Still on real meat after 11 days is pretty good. Fresh fruit has almost gone but
we have thrown away little. To improve the situation the fishing lines are out
and we are hopeful!
James has now finished his book about
cycling around the world. We are not sure what this might mean for his
future escapades but occaisionally he can be seen with a far away look in his
eye?
The Ula award was close to being rumbled when
scurrilous accusations were made that the committee seemed to be taking undue
notice of John's stomach. However this was hotly denied. The award for today
does go to Tina for the most delicious bacon and egg sarnie for
breakfast.
Cheers fron
Tioram
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