A busy night. We were rolling along at 8k plus in SSE 6-7 when squall came thru about 0300 force 8-9 and counting. All hands to 3 reefs and staysail. Got nicely balanced and jogging along at 4 to 5k. Allden Roger and Jeremy doing sterling work in difficult conditions. Wind eased around dawn and now 1 reef and full yankee but still v bouncy.

 

Had chili con carne last njte and as usual catering dept excelled itself. Not much chance of fish today but winds seem forecast to ease so maybe tomorrow.

 

We have now been sailing about 60 deg off the wind for 24 hours in force 6 plus, so if anyone tells you about idyllic tradewind sailing with easy following seas sun and playful dolphins around the bow –forget it!!!  A degree or two more on the wind and we will cease to be gentlemen!!!