St. Lucia - celebrations and repairs
Regina
Espen Aalstad
Tue 18 Dec 2007 13:44
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14.05N 60:59W
For a while it felt like the ocean was spitting
back boats as they were arriving almost constantly into Rodney Bay. Where have
they all been?
We enjoy listening to the VHF for boats
passing the finish line in the bay and then watch them come in with big
smiles (usually) and quickly hitting a bar to share stories of the Atlantic. Our
little spinnaker boom drama is nothing compared to others - who have been
unlucky or maybe pushed the boat (or inexperienced). Some have also
struggled with crew, who sometimes run off or are let off. It is a tough passage
also socially.
After a good sleep and big meal ashore, most
skippers and crews must deal with repairs - of all kinds. We have a tear in our
main sail, which is easily fixed. Our Lazy Jack is beyond repairs it seems, but
strange to see no other Jeanneaus with the same problem. New Spinnaker boom and
battons for the mainsail we get in a day sail to Martinique (and some good
French vine and cheese). Strangely, the boat does not start when we want to
leave! We realize we have been very lucky to not have trouble on the crossing as
a filter was badly serviced. The boat also gets a good clean in and outside -
also to prepare for Christmas and more crew.
In between, we enjoy some of the many parties
organized to celebrate us. Elin has fun racing Optimist for a day of
fun on the beach on one of the nice days. The low in the north has actually
brought a lot of wind and rain in Rodney Bay - and for the boats that are
still out there!
We are impressed with the Norwegian results and
stamina. We will have several winners it seems. Still, most impressive is Sol
from Halden (Regi's home town) who has done this with the smallest kids. By
chance they are berthed next to us.
Sewing job of Lazy Jack
 After a week of in the marina though we are
restless and ready to move on as soon as the boys and grandma settle in. They
have also had some exciting weeks together and have not missed the boat it
seems.
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