Thursday 28/04/11

1200UT Position 38:50.4N  45:33.8W

Distance run 1200 - 1200UT: 134NM

1200UT  COG 107M, SOG 7.8kts, wind 310M 17kts, baro 1022 steady

1200UT Temperatures: Air 19, Sea 40 (we suspect the instrument is misreading!)

Intention: to sail to Horta on Faial in the Azores (787NM)

 

Our pleasant passage was rudely interrupted last night when we experienced unexpected winds of up to 30 knots which quickly whipped up a rough sea.  This increase from a comfortable 17 knots occurred in 30 minutes after dark and we had no option but to run south before it with 4 reefs and a furled headsail.  Dave proved to be a great asset on the helm.  Come the dawn, the main was replaced with the tri-sail and twin poled-out headsails rigged, allowing progress on a Great Circle route at around 7.5 knots to be resumed in reduced winds and a gradually calming sea.

 

Interestngly, the barometers have remained steady at 1022/23 for 24 hours.  We will have to invest in new Club burgees and an Ensign on return to UK, as all are now rather tattered!

 

Crew catching up on sleep.