WHEN: Tuesday April 5th 2100Local / 2200EST / 2300BRZ / 0200UTC
WHERE: 07:41N 123:41W
MILEAGE: 1,402 miles since La Cruz (sailed), 1,400 miles to Nuku Hiva (straight line)
We are now exiting the Trade Winds, entering a transition zone into the Equator know as ITCZ. All the moisture collected by the Trade Winds over the ocean piles up here, forming large groups of clouds and producing a lot of rain. Some times this rain pours in a very intense manner, known as Squalls.
Last night we had a first taste of it, and had to dodge a few squalls. Others catch up with us drenching Pesto and her crew. Winds also grew ahead of the downpours, at one point reaching 30 knots, and we had to reef our sails for the first time. It was a busy night.
After sunrise, the wind started to slow gradually, down from the 17-25 knots that had been blowing for the last three days to an easy 10-14 knots. While we miss the adrenalin of surfing down one wave after the other at 8, 9 and even 10 knots, we were also very keen for some respite.
We tried to catch up on sleep during the day today, but are still looking very much forward to a tranquil night. This may be a little ambitious, for the sky is still very cloudy, but the seas have subsided. You will know tomorrow.
We just had a great lunch, thanks to Adriana, and now she is reading for us here in the cockpit. The sun is about to set and soon we will be getting ready for the night.
Have a good one!
Pesto out.
Your day’s report push my memories to the time that I read Amyr Klink journey. Similar situation with a lot of decisions , body and mind training. Fortunately you have a special crew with you and together you’ll discover new ways to see the outside world. Enjoy and good winds until your next destination. By the way, it is amazing to know how you handle seasickness.
Goodnight Pesto. Sleep well. Hugs
Thank You Edison. Amyr Klink was one of the heroes who influenced me “back in the times”. One day I will write something about it. And you are right, Life Onboard is a very delicate balancing act, and every decision – some times even ridiculously trivial ones – almost always entail compromises, sometimes with disproportionate consequences. Self and Situational awareness are key to success out here.