Saturday, March 27, 2010

Easter Island to Gambiers Day 5

0730 report/1430 GMT
South Pacific Ocean
27 53.3S/118 27.7W
Wind 12 kn and backing to the east, swell 6-8 feet south.
COG 264 mag at 6.7 kn

We sailed the zephyrs (really 7-10 knots) all day yesterday, and averaged a not too stellar 4.4 kn until winds dropped at 5 PM and we motor sailed a while with jib, then only centerline main after 10 PM. Light winds and motoring made for a quiet and easy night that was good for sleeping. everyone will be well rested today. It is overcast and drizzling this morning, and winds are supposed to increase as the day goes on - we shoud be able to turn off the engine and do some nice sailing. We could see up to 20 kn wind through the night hours, but nothing more (after the other night I can hear Jo saying "well, if it's only 20 kn, that's ok). We are setting ourselves up with options to have the best angle on wind and seas, and will sail a course of comfort, easy to do when you have 1000 miles of sea room.

Here is a quickie take at home quiz for cruisers from the "you've been out there for a while department".

You've been out there for a while when:
(A) you are savoring that last head of iceberg lettuce
(B) you measure diesel consumption by the jerry jug
(C) you find yourself trading for 2 year old magazines
(D) all of the above

You are on the honor system and may take the quiz at home or aboard.

The easy evening last night allowed for dining al fresco in the cockpit, with a menu of mussel pesto pasta and (iceberg of course) green salad with home made vinagrette. It was quiet enough to watch a video with chocolate squares for desert. It's too wet for a flying fish report right now. All is well. 942 miles to go.

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