The pelicans had already started crash diving for their breakfasts when we brought our stern lines aboard and Zoonie motored gently forward, with a short halt for Rob to release our bowline from the buoy. Then I gave Zoonie a burst ahead with the wheel full to port to turn her in the short distance we had before we reached the mooring buoys opposite.

 

We had breakfast and showers alongside the fuel jetty, awaiting the marinero and then we were off, sailing past the verdant slopes of lovely Guadeloupe towards the gap between her and the greening of Les Saint Iles. We were leaving behind us our friend the North Atlantic and entering the Caribbean Sea, with both a fine wind and current sending us into new waters for the three of us.

 

That night the wind died and tired of hearing the slatting of the sails we resorted to motoring and wondered where the fair wind forecast had got it wrong.

 

Our second day was hot and airless. The highlight, or low point depending on how you look at it, was seeing and hearing a tug on the daisy chain fishing lure, trailing behind and Rob bringing it in to find one plastic squid left and hefty teeth marks. A big fish had taken the rest from a sideways grab so hopefully the hook will have been released into the sea and not caught in the fish. (Photos of tooth marks to follow.) We were both glad we hadn’t brought it on board, with teeth like that.

 

We tried the diva in the afternoon but there was not even enough wind to fill her ample lungs.

 

“Please no lightening to take out our electrics,” I whispered as I sat on watch that night, watching a massive squall approach. But it was kind and just delivered enough rain to wash the windows and cool the air. At first light we set the sails to catch the generous 12 knots it left us in its wake but sadly that too soon faded.

 

We keep one big window open to bring in some air to the saloon and have to remember to close it if it rains. This morning it was blissful from daylight before the sun rose and afterwards for a few more minutes before it shone and brought great heat. It is 38’ in the saloon, but bearable with a little passing air, and we are luxuriating in cool showers. Getting ready for the watch these days doesn’t take long, just on with the vest top and shorts and we’re ready. Day time attire is: well best not go there.

 

Zoonie is now sailing again with the help of an approaching cloud mass giving 13 – 16 knots, let’s hope it lasts!