38:51.2N 27:42.6W

Yesterday evening called for a group goodbye (to Mark), followed by a visit to Peter’s Café Sport – a favourite haunt of all the mariners, good food, drink and plenty of cheer (especially from a few Norwegians breaking into song)!  

An early morning start to see Mark set-off on his return flights home. Clear the boat for exit and ready to go! First, the Norwegian boat rafted top us had to pull off and then we could cast our lines and away by 10:100am, closely followed by the French boat we were rafted to as well! A fresh 10kn breeze and a chance to shake out the sails – genoa included (although the furlex is not fully functional it should be useable for the trip). Rounded Isla de Jorge and then a course laid in for Lisbon – a mere 910nm great circle route although we will keep north of this due to string southerly setting currents.  The day ends on  a peaceful sail in light south-easterly winds and a colourful sunset.

Position posting at 20:00 Azores time (GMT) 29/5

Phil and Matt