21:51.10N 20:51.53W 

 

Date: Friday, 26 November [09:30 UTC]

 

We had a great day’s run between 09:00 25/11 – 09:00 26/11 of 140 miles and took advantage of W-NW F3-5 winds which allowed us to almost track the 20 degree longitude line on our way south. We managed to use the re-commissioned Hydrovane self-steering gear and it has performed perfectly since 09:00 yesterday. It steers the yacht more accurately than the electronic auto helm in addition to any of the crew! Sailing close-hauled with full sail yesterday provided the crew with an interesting and busy day. Sail trim being important in addition to keeping an accurate watch – especially at night. We passed two yachts overnight, but we don’t know if they were official ARC entries.

 

We have a low pressure area to our west and we must ensure that we keep sailing due south towards the Cape Verde islands to avoid SW head winds which are forecast for Sunday. The distance to the closest island being Ilha Do Sal which is currently 328 miles south of our position and we need to try and get as close as we can by Sunday.

 

Our evening dinners continue to keep the crew in good spirit. Because the motion of the yacht was a little rolly last night, the ‘dog bowls’ were standard issue as it was a little ‘ruff’! Dinner comprised a selection of nuts, olives and pickled garlic followed by ‘Moroccan Chicken’ served with rice. After dinner was over, Skipper Ivan was seen curling up on his favorite mat! Jimmy Dempsey was thrown a dried ‘pigs ear’ and was sent to his bed! Dermot was whining as usual and wouldn’t go to sleep without his walk around the deck. Skipper Ivan advised the crew that the lifting of legs was not permitted in the cabin, but was OK against the mast. Poop-scoops were issued and finally the cabin was cleaned up before bed.

 

As you can tell, spirits are still running high amongst the crew!

 

Kind regards from Ivan and the crew.