5th day and being knocked about a bit. The weather man at the ARC said the rhumb line was looking good so we stated on that basis but gales to the north made us decide to go south hopefully to about 20N 30W and turn right. However more bad weather to the north is stretching well S of the Canaries forcing us further south. We are presently enjoying force 4-6 WNW which puts us on a close reach in a quite big lumpy sea heading SW. However it is forecast to veer early tomorrow to the N the NE so fingers crossed that we can crack off and/or head up onto a more westerly heading. Saw our first dolphins today. A large pod, small pod with a distinctive pale blaze on the side and very acrobatic. Also getting warmer- we are watching the butter closely to see when it melts -  which is pleasant. Jack has not been fishing today and is still being ribbed from being ‘corked’.

Food continues excellent with Jeremy actually saying how much he enjoys cooking at sea!?!?!? Dave who very much enjoys his tea, almost had a panic attack after the handle fell off the kettle and we were reduced to boiling water in a pan. However Jeremy has created a splendid new handle from jubilee clips and gaffer tape which put my miserable Monel wire effort to shame and the kettle is now operational again to the general relief of all. Jack is working through the library at a rate of knots and up and at em when stuff needs to be done.