Monday 26th June

A busy day, Noel dropped me at home with a washing load and went off on his rounds.  The outboard engineer was not in today, but the engine is waiting for his attention tomorrow.  He then went to the furling gear manufacturer and purchased a pair of 'meatier' stabilising bars, so that he can fix the furling gear tomorrow. Whisper's engineer made contact with the news that whichever new engine we choose, it will take three weeks to be delivered.  He is going to come over tomorrow to check the crank shaft bearing.  Depending on the outcome, we will then know if new crank shaft seals will correct the oil leak and the engine be reliable or whether the bearing is worn, in which case we need to decide about a new engine etc.  

Strawberries were harvested from the garden and a fresh supply of provisions were purchased!  

Thee are various scenarios of what to do next and we just need to wait a little longer to make a firm decision.  Whereas it would be great to be on our way and have time to slowly enjoy the passage, we do actually still have time to make a more direct passage, to Madeira and be hauled out there as planned in the autumn.

We are determined to get there!  It is frustrating but not the end of the world!