Yesterday's strong gusty winds and heavier seas continued throughout the early hours of Day 18, with Starcross getting to all sorts of interesting angles but with the miles ticking inexorably by.

 

Daylight revealed to a tired crew that the rain squall clouds had moved on, but the heavy and confused sea still remained.  We decided to re-rig the trisail into the track as it would probably be up for the next few days.  With a difficult sea in which to maintain a decent sail-changing bearing, the bottom half dipping as I stood on the lower rail was most refreshing.  That is why boxers and life jackets has become the deck wear of choice.

 

Daylight also revealed the identity of our mystery vessel - another ARC yacht called Winner, upon whom we slowly gained throughout the day.  After short range waving and photo shoots of the yachts at sea, we parted company until rums and frivolity in St Lucia.

 

Night watches are beginning, with good strong winds and a still feisty but slightly diminished sea.  Off to bed, see you in four hours.

 

St Lucia here we come.

 

Ross, Al, Al, Paul, Will