day 6 arrival Bermuda
NORDLYS
David and Annette Ridout
Tue 28 Apr 2009 12:29
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Arrival Bermuda
32:22N 64:40N
0700hrs 28th April
2009
Yesterday we motored from 0300hrs until we dropped
hook in St Georges Harbour, in the dark, after getting through the narrow
cut into this safe haven at 2330hrs. Approximately five and a half
days out of St Martin. The last day was basically very enjoyable and as we
motored over a calm sea we made water and gave the cockpit and other immediately
reachable parts of the boat a fresh water wash. The old lady was
absolutely covered in thick layers of salt. Oilies were washed and other
domestic chores carried out. The pleasure of being able to move about and
enjoy life after the tumble drier experience of the last few days was
immense.
In actual statistics the trip was a success.
928 miles logged in 134 hours gives almost seven knots. Perhaps we are
getting a little soft but we no longer enjoy sailing when it is impossible to do
anything except exist. It was thus a very happy crew that heard on
the radio that customs was closed and we could anchor in a given area and enjoy
a nights sleep. The whole approach of the authorities here is very
professional. Too much so in some ways. Their radio, VHF, has
fantastic range, well over 100 miles. I had to give details of my DSC radio
and its operation. They wanted to know the number of my Sat C set.
All things that I had never been asked for before and sent me to the
manuals. In the end they were very helpful and gave me a practice DSC call
which showed that my correct MMSI number was installed. Nowhere in the
manuals did it say how to check this fact. After a career of being a
professional, albeit a pilot, I hate being caught out acting like an
amateur. For you sailors reading this it is interesting to note that DSC
calling is getting going, at least in Bermuda! Read those
books.
So awake now after a very peaceful night we will
'gird our loins' get the anchor up and go across to the authorities dock for the
check in. The weather is cool, cloudy and damp. We are definitely
getting nearer home.
David
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