Sailing swiftly

We had some stronger winds as predicted. The waves built up quickly and we were being thrown around a bit as we waited for the seconds per wave to stretch. A few hours on the swell started rolling beautifully and we were in flow with the motion of the ocean. Our AWS was 20kts, 1st reef with the genoa tied to the midship cleat and a bungee attached. The boom was also opened wide with a gybe preventer and a bungee attached to that as well. The AWA was 160° to starboard, and the autopilot was set to that in wind vane mode, and the rudder response was set to leisure. We were cruising between 7 and 8kts, and would surf now and then up to 12kts. The Gori folding props are excellent for smooth, fast and quiet sailing.

During my 2 to 6pm watch I was sitting on the starboard aft concave shaped dolphin chair taking in some vitamin 🌞. Another unique feature of the Maverick catamaran is the four dolphin chairs, two on the bows, and two on the stern. A pair of albatross was riding the high winds with utter grace, sheer speed and perfect control. I can sit and watch them for hours.

The sun was starting to set, and although I have seen thousands of sunsets on the ocean, I am always amazed at at the change of colors in the sky and on the water. The enchanting hour, just after sunset, also moves me every time. Last night the stars were once again mesmerizing. A close friend of mine bestowed on me the Southern Cross as a protector and as a guide home when all seems lost. A beautiful gift.

During the night the wind started easing, and just before sunrise there was a lightning storm closing in on our starboard side. We decided to change our course for a while and sailed around the area. We have got special lightning equipment on board, but prefer not to test it if we can prevent it. The wind faded to a breeze, and as per our weather predictions, we will have just about no wind for the next three days, and will be motoring.

I hope you are looking forward to the weekend ahead, and thank you for your interest in our voyage.

Chat again in the morning.

Paul





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