Sailing!
Digiboat's "Product Testing"
Simon Blundell
Sun 6 Mar 2011 20:25
07:37.13S 106:16.81E
We have had a
wondeful day sailing today without the engines. This is the first time since we
left Phuket that we have been able to enjoy this great pleasure. El Oro
seems to ride more easily in the swells, and knifes through the water
effortlessly at speeds much faster than under motor. I am amazed at her
complete lack of wake and the easy entry through the water at the bow where she
makes an unusual gurgling sound, No wonder her sister ship "Kriter"
came third in a Whitbred Around the World Race.
To add to the
pleasures of the day, Tim cooked an amazing roast beef lunch which we followed
with the decider Scrabble game in the tournament. It was a terrible
outcome for Bar and me as Tim and Al put in a very strong finish to win the
game, set and match.
MC
6/1945z
Engines are happy
having had the day off. Burmas are happy having had a day off. All else in
better spirits having had a sail!
Wind veered more
west as forecast by the gribs, so far more useful angle for sailing. Shook out
the main-main for first time in several months (usual cruising rig is genoa and
mizzen and one red metal diesel sail). Wind steady at 10-12 kn resulting in
boatspeed of 6-8kn. Seas minimal.
Wrapped up the
dacron sails and shook out both metal sails tonight as wind dropped and gone
aft.
600nm to go -
tomorrow should be that breakthrough day when we get to see the destination
appear on the edge of the chart!
SJB
6/2000z