Tuesday 16 December 2014
Sunday 14 December 2014
Search and Rescue display at Las Palmas
Jon, Padding out the spreaders to minimise Chafe on the crossing
Chris Loading final fuel supplies
Nigel....have we started yet?
The team. Top Row, L to R, Nigel, David, Rob. Front row L to R. Chris, Jon
One of the many fantastic sunsets.
Nigel assuming "the" position!
There seemed to be a lot of big ships out there.....
Rob on the night shift......
David at night....not much deifferent t during the day!
Chris admiring the sunset...
Rob at the helm....again!
Chris having a quiet moment.
Nigel's turn to enjoy the sunset!
Rob and Jon fighting for the helm...
Kings of the world!
Photo bomb!
Jon perching on the bow....
Photo bomb 2!
At rest...St. Lucia!
Friday 12 December 2014
Log - Day 18 - home and Dry!
At last we arrived in St. Lucia, Rodney Bay Marina. We arrived at 2.50 am local time, 6.50 GMT.
Congratulations to the crew for a great jobs well done. The arrival was great despite the time and a welcoming committee was there to great us with rum punch! Liz (my wife) and Geraldine (Nigel's wife) may the end complete. Now to repair the various bits and pieces. Watch this space as I will update with photographs shortly.
At last we arrived in St. Lucia, Rodney Bay Marina. We arrived at 2.50 am local time, 6.50 GMT.
Congratulations to the crew for a great jobs well done. The arrival was great despite the time and a welcoming committee was there to great us with rum punch! Liz (my wife) and Geraldine (Nigel's wife) may the end complete. Now to repair the various bits and pieces. Watch this space as I will update with photographs shortly.
Thursday 11 December 2014
Log - Day 17 - So near yet so far.....
As I write this we are under motor with Chris on the helm about 150 miles out from St Lucia.
Yesterday was a good day with solid mileage, the Parasailor working well in winds of 12 - 15 Knots and Harry keeping us on a good course. As we approached nightfall after a good day we were confident that with the winds we would make good progress over night. Over confidence is not something I would accuse any of us after this trip, but we retired (except for those on shift!) feeling pretty good. Alarms went off at 01.40 as Rob was having problems. The Parasailor had blown out in 15 Knots of wind! So Jon, Nigel and myself lowered the sail and moved on to the Jib which was giving us about 6 knots. By the 7am the wind had shifted so that we could not maintain speed and direction so we went on to the iron sail instead for a few hours. The aim now is to raise the main at first light and then (hopefully) have a relatively plain sail the rest of the way into St. Lucia.....we hope!!!!
The Parasailor has about a two meter tear, we will look to see if we can complete temporary repairs as soon as we get light, failing that we will wait for St Lucia.
ETA at Rodney Bay Marina will be somewhere after midnight St. Lucia time.......one way or another! :-)
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Yesterday was a good day with solid mileage, the Parasailor working well in winds of 12 - 15 Knots and Harry keeping us on a good course. As we approached nightfall after a good day we were confident that with the winds we would make good progress over night. Over confidence is not something I would accuse any of us after this trip, but we retired (except for those on shift!) feeling pretty good. Alarms went off at 01.40 as Rob was having problems. The Parasailor had blown out in 15 Knots of wind! So Jon, Nigel and myself lowered the sail and moved on to the Jib which was giving us about 6 knots. By the 7am the wind had shifted so that we could not maintain speed and direction so we went on to the iron sail instead for a few hours. The aim now is to raise the main at first light and then (hopefully) have a relatively plain sail the rest of the way into St. Lucia.....we hope!!!!
The Parasailor has about a two meter tear, we will look to see if we can complete temporary repairs as soon as we get light, failing that we will wait for St Lucia.
ETA at Rodney Bay Marina will be somewhere after midnight St. Lucia time.......one way or another! :-)
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Wednesday 10 December 2014
Log - Day 16 - Nothing to report sir!
Nothing broke, nobody broke anything, no one hurt. So a good day!
The wind continues to frustrate. With under 300 miles to go as I write this we have 5 - 10 knots from the East, pushing us a long at 5 - 6 Knots. Not as fast as we would like, but the destination is near...We can almost smell the cocktails!
Parasailior driven by Harry continue to work well down wind and that means we are in watch mode so reasonably low stress.
Chicken curry for dinner last night so Miss Liz II has an interesting fragrance today!
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The wind continues to frustrate. With under 300 miles to go as I write this we have 5 - 10 knots from the East, pushing us a long at 5 - 6 Knots. Not as fast as we would like, but the destination is near...We can almost smell the cocktails!
Parasailior driven by Harry continue to work well down wind and that means we are in watch mode so reasonably low stress.
Chicken curry for dinner last night so Miss Liz II has an interesting fragrance today!
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Tuesday 9 December 2014
Log = Day 15 - Becalmed
What a different a day makes. After the storms of Sunday night, on Monday during the day the winds steadily calmed until by evening there was none at all. So the Iron sail was cranked up and we started to motor. This went on for most of the night - although about 2am we did raise the parasailor and were able to motor sail, albeit slowly. This has put us back time wise and it now looks likely that we will make landfall somewhere on Friday...
Incident of the day? The self tacking Jib car has broken.Selden will be getting a call as it is only 6 months old!! Luckily we are able to rig as a normal Jib as we have cars on the coach roof for the purpose - so just a few changes in the sheets required.
Dinner was based on beef, with every vegetable possible included...An interesting Chris delicacy!
This morning back on Parasailor in light winds and we are sailing directly down wind which is a bonus. We just need the wind to pick up a little more to boost as long at more than 6 Knots!
Setting up the Parasailor Jon, Chris and Nigel were luck enough to have two pods of dolphins come and watch what they were up to. Hopefully a god omen.
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Incident of the day? The self tacking Jib car has broken.Selden will be getting a call as it is only 6 months old!! Luckily we are able to rig as a normal Jib as we have cars on the coach roof for the purpose - so just a few changes in the sheets required.
Dinner was based on beef, with every vegetable possible included...An interesting Chris delicacy!
This morning back on Parasailor in light winds and we are sailing directly down wind which is a bonus. We just need the wind to pick up a little more to boost as long at more than 6 Knots!
Setting up the Parasailor Jon, Chris and Nigel were luck enough to have two pods of dolphins come and watch what they were up to. Hopefully a god omen.
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Monday 8 December 2014
Log -Day 14. Thunder and Lightening, Very, Very Frighteneing..
ME! As the song goes.
Yesterday went well, reasonable winds and distance. As evening approached we saw the dark clouds on the horizon and lowered the Parasailor. Engine on. In the distance lightening appeared. Now, I'm not a fan of lightening at the best of times (after being hit in Houston a few years ago), so the hairs on my neck immediately stood on end. We placed as much of our electronics as we could in the oven (protection from a lightening strike - the Faraday cage principle for anyone who wants to look it up) and motored on as now the winds were building and coming from every quarter. Then the rain came......worst yet.
Jon was on shift but I went to help him out. As the wind built we motored at 2.5 Knots into the wind....realising that the parasailor needed tying down better on deck, Chris and I clipped on and went forward under the spreader lines to make her fast. By now the Bow was digging in to the confused seas and waves smashed over Chris and I. But, happily, at this latitude the water is very warm so in away it was quite enjoyable! Everything locked down we continued to motor, in total for 4 hours before we cleared the storm. The lightening fortunately was sheet lightening...very impressive but not a threat. In Jon's words "I don't like that!"....
By Midnight we were clear and the word was blowing all angles at 20 knots, so we ran with the Jib only to allow everyone to get some respite from the previous four hours bouncing. The jib alone approach gave us over 7 Knots over the ground.
As daylight approached and in 18 knot winds we raised the Parasailor ready for a good run. It lasted 30 minutes before the wind dropped to less than 10 knots...such is our luck!
For those desperate to keep up with our culinary escapades, last night we really pushed the boat out with some high cholesterol generating chilli dogs. Very nice, but I think today we will suffer. 600 Miles to go.....
No more storms today please!
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Yesterday went well, reasonable winds and distance. As evening approached we saw the dark clouds on the horizon and lowered the Parasailor. Engine on. In the distance lightening appeared. Now, I'm not a fan of lightening at the best of times (after being hit in Houston a few years ago), so the hairs on my neck immediately stood on end. We placed as much of our electronics as we could in the oven (protection from a lightening strike - the Faraday cage principle for anyone who wants to look it up) and motored on as now the winds were building and coming from every quarter. Then the rain came......worst yet.
Jon was on shift but I went to help him out. As the wind built we motored at 2.5 Knots into the wind....realising that the parasailor needed tying down better on deck, Chris and I clipped on and went forward under the spreader lines to make her fast. By now the Bow was digging in to the confused seas and waves smashed over Chris and I. But, happily, at this latitude the water is very warm so in away it was quite enjoyable! Everything locked down we continued to motor, in total for 4 hours before we cleared the storm. The lightening fortunately was sheet lightening...very impressive but not a threat. In Jon's words "I don't like that!"....
By Midnight we were clear and the word was blowing all angles at 20 knots, so we ran with the Jib only to allow everyone to get some respite from the previous four hours bouncing. The jib alone approach gave us over 7 Knots over the ground.
As daylight approached and in 18 knot winds we raised the Parasailor ready for a good run. It lasted 30 minutes before the wind dropped to less than 10 knots...such is our luck!
For those desperate to keep up with our culinary escapades, last night we really pushed the boat out with some high cholesterol generating chilli dogs. Very nice, but I think today we will suffer. 600 Miles to go.....
No more storms today please!
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Sunday 7 December 2014
Log - Day 13 - Squall me!
A good days sail on the whole. Wind moving on to the beam meant a normal sail plan and 10 knots plus frequently passed.
No issues for another day (wow!). We are steadily heading South aiming to hit 16 degrees North later today before turning to head straight for St. Lucia. Plan is to avoid as much as possible the forecast weak winds that are meant to arrive in the area on Monday.
Pleasant stew for dinner, but let me digress for a moment.
My daughter, Jon's wife (the intrepid heads unblocker) were married just over two years ago in Florida. While there we had the chance to visit MGM studios and the backlot tour. On the tour I volunteered for the Pearl harbour special effects show. Never volunteer. For the pleasure of it I had to sit on a chair, pretending to make a call to the engine room while we were attacked by a zero (Japanese plane). The plane was supposed to drop a bomb nearby and for the effect, a 1000 gallon tank of water was effectively dropped on my head. I never thought I would get so wet again. I was wrong! Last night I had the Midnight watch and of course a squall came through. We had no reefs in and I was too late to call the crew so we took the 30 knot plus winds on the chin and Miss Liz II whizzed along at a cracking 14.5 Knots. Very nice until, SQUALL ME! it rained.....and rained....and rained. Cold and wet I thought surely, I can never get this wet again...Watch this space.
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No issues for another day (wow!). We are steadily heading South aiming to hit 16 degrees North later today before turning to head straight for St. Lucia. Plan is to avoid as much as possible the forecast weak winds that are meant to arrive in the area on Monday.
Pleasant stew for dinner, but let me digress for a moment.
My daughter, Jon's wife (the intrepid heads unblocker) were married just over two years ago in Florida. While there we had the chance to visit MGM studios and the backlot tour. On the tour I volunteered for the Pearl harbour special effects show. Never volunteer. For the pleasure of it I had to sit on a chair, pretending to make a call to the engine room while we were attacked by a zero (Japanese plane). The plane was supposed to drop a bomb nearby and for the effect, a 1000 gallon tank of water was effectively dropped on my head. I never thought I would get so wet again. I was wrong! Last night I had the Midnight watch and of course a squall came through. We had no reefs in and I was too late to call the crew so we took the 30 knot plus winds on the chin and Miss Liz II whizzed along at a cracking 14.5 Knots. Very nice until, SQUALL ME! it rained.....and rained....and rained. Cold and wet I thought surely, I can never get this wet again...Watch this space.
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Saturday 6 December 2014
Log - Day 12. Whoops, we've dunnit again!
A quiet day, good winds and god progress - in the right direction.
Parasailed all day and the sail really is making a difference. For one the rolling is greatly reduced, which means we can actually sleep comfortably in the forepeak! Bliss. It also allows a run with very little adjustment which makes the days routine much easier. Better still Harry is perfect downwind so we able to maintain a good angle.
No more friends on deck this morning and minimal chafe as we are managing the Parasailor halyard carefully. Probably drop her at sometime today just to double check.
Movies have now moved on to band of brothers....which means we will have to stay out longer if we want to watch the entire series!!!! Panic at dinner as Jon set off the fire alarms and eventually provided us with a good but well baked chicken / chorizo pasta dinner.
So the title? After Jon's valiant efforts to clear Heads three.....it is down again. Not a blockage this time, looks likethe pump may have an issue. So we've done the dunny as the Aussies would say....
What will day 13 bring?
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Parasailed all day and the sail really is making a difference. For one the rolling is greatly reduced, which means we can actually sleep comfortably in the forepeak! Bliss. It also allows a run with very little adjustment which makes the days routine much easier. Better still Harry is perfect downwind so we able to maintain a good angle.
No more friends on deck this morning and minimal chafe as we are managing the Parasailor halyard carefully. Probably drop her at sometime today just to double check.
Movies have now moved on to band of brothers....which means we will have to stay out longer if we want to watch the entire series!!!! Panic at dinner as Jon set off the fire alarms and eventually provided us with a good but well baked chicken / chorizo pasta dinner.
So the title? After Jon's valiant efforts to clear Heads three.....it is down again. Not a blockage this time, looks likethe pump may have an issue. So we've done the dunny as the Aussies would say....
What will day 13 bring?
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Friday 5 December 2014
Log - Day 11. Singing in the Rain and other Plumbing tales....
An eventful (ish) Day. No major issues - a major event in itself. The parasailor was up all night - even though we dropped to zero wind on occasions. On the whole, wind has faded now to 10 Knots
, still good enough to push us on though. We still hope for 15!
Not a curry or chilli in sight last night as Rob prepared his pork with three mustards pasta dish....OK, now mustard instead of Chilli's but still very good and team spirits high for the night shift.
After dinner, Chris and Jon had a swim as the wind had dropped - even though we were floating along at 2 knots. Fortunately we had a swim line in the water so they could then drag themselves back. Then the big event. We lowered Jon over the side to poke out the stubborn lugged heads. Poking the seacock with the end of an old fishing rod did the trick and the plug was removed - Much to Jon's dismay and screams of "Get me out of here"!!! He was back on board faster than a rat up a drain pipe.....spirits raised again.
With a good moon we decided to keep the Parasailor up all night for the first time, and with a Harry working well all looked good. And it was, until the 3 - 6 Shift - mine (David's) as it happened. Line after line of squalls, the Parasailor flew well, until we got down to 1 knot of wind and rain, well I think it was rain (more like a bath) that had it hanging like a wet rag.Not so much singing as cursing in the rain. The wind soon came back though and onward we went with Harry happily in control.
On board life remains good with a great British Movie last night - Layered Cake. Nigel is catching up on all he has missed in UK films...In the day, Scrabble has now become king with the Skipper as the decider on word fights....not that he can spell!!!
Bring on Day 12!!
Harry was working well the P
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, still good enough to push us on though. We still hope for 15!
Not a curry or chilli in sight last night as Rob prepared his pork with three mustards pasta dish....OK, now mustard instead of Chilli's but still very good and team spirits high for the night shift.
After dinner, Chris and Jon had a swim as the wind had dropped - even though we were floating along at 2 knots. Fortunately we had a swim line in the water so they could then drag themselves back. Then the big event. We lowered Jon over the side to poke out the stubborn lugged heads. Poking the seacock with the end of an old fishing rod did the trick and the plug was removed - Much to Jon's dismay and screams of "Get me out of here"!!! He was back on board faster than a rat up a drain pipe.....spirits raised again.
With a good moon we decided to keep the Parasailor up all night for the first time, and with a Harry working well all looked good. And it was, until the 3 - 6 Shift - mine (David's) as it happened. Line after line of squalls, the Parasailor flew well, until we got down to 1 knot of wind and rain, well I think it was rain (more like a bath) that had it hanging like a wet rag.Not so much singing as cursing in the rain. The wind soon came back though and onward we went with Harry happily in control.
On board life remains good with a great British Movie last night - Layered Cake. Nigel is catching up on all he has missed in UK films...In the day, Scrabble has now become king with the Skipper as the decider on word fights....not that he can spell!!!
Bring on Day 12!!
Harry was working well the P
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Thursday 4 December 2014
Log - Day 10. Who Nobbled Harry?
We have Gremlins. After helming overnight yesterday, alter in the day we noticed why Harry ad gone awry on us. The vane had been knocked and so the response was greatly reduced, meaning no control. Easily fixed so we had 5 Happy Bunnies yesterday evening as we were back on automatic.
Other highlight was the halfway party with Champagne and Iberico ham. Very nice. Neptune had a champagne toast so we are hoping he will look kindly on us!!
The weather continues to frustrate as we never seem to be able to have a sustained blow. Squalls yesterday stole us of an hours sailing as the wind span around us, and meant the Parasailor came down earlier than we would have liked. But, we did make better distance by a considerable margin over the prior three days.
Our main tragedy was that we consumed the final ice creams (aaggghh!). But we still have chocolate to placate the crew.
Chafe remains a worry, especially on Chris's sunburn.
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Other highlight was the halfway party with Champagne and Iberico ham. Very nice. Neptune had a champagne toast so we are hoping he will look kindly on us!!
The weather continues to frustrate as we never seem to be able to have a sustained blow. Squalls yesterday stole us of an hours sailing as the wind span around us, and meant the Parasailor came down earlier than we would have liked. But, we did make better distance by a considerable margin over the prior three days.
Our main tragedy was that we consumed the final ice creams (aaggghh!). But we still have chocolate to placate the crew.
Chafe remains a worry, especially on Chris's sunburn.
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Wednesday 3 December 2014
Log Day 9 -Half Way House
A cheery crew today as we passed half way during the night. We will be having our half way party at lunch today!
An interesting day again, but a good run over the day. We launched the Parasailor in the morning and lowered her at dusk. Finding some chafe on the halyard. We changed back to dyneema this morning and will keep monitoring.
Last night, as Harry was not coping so well we had to helm manually all night, not too bad with 5 of us, allowing 1 hour spells at the helm. we have played with the auto pilot but no response. Hanse and auto pilots do not seem to work well together - hopefully someone will be a made available to us in St Lucia to get it fixed!
In the evening as we launched the Jib, another minor incident as the becket screw on the sheet block (tacking assembly) parted. A minor issue which we will fix this morning. At least the "minor issues" give us something to do!
With the Parasailor up today and good winds we hope for another good run. During the day yesterday we caught and overtook a few other yachts in the vicinity - great for Moral! Even better, we made water last night so showers all round today!!!
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An interesting day again, but a good run over the day. We launched the Parasailor in the morning and lowered her at dusk. Finding some chafe on the halyard. We changed back to dyneema this morning and will keep monitoring.
Last night, as Harry was not coping so well we had to helm manually all night, not too bad with 5 of us, allowing 1 hour spells at the helm. we have played with the auto pilot but no response. Hanse and auto pilots do not seem to work well together - hopefully someone will be a made available to us in St Lucia to get it fixed!
In the evening as we launched the Jib, another minor incident as the becket screw on the sheet block (tacking assembly) parted. A minor issue which we will fix this morning. At least the "minor issues" give us something to do!
With the Parasailor up today and good winds we hope for another good run. During the day yesterday we caught and overtook a few other yachts in the vicinity - great for Moral! Even better, we made water last night so showers all round today!!!
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Tuesday 2 December 2014
Log Day 8 - Downwind
Downwind sailing is not as easy as it should be - especially when the jammers aren't holding as they should.....This morning we launched the Parasailor but can't get a good sail down wind, we have to bear off about 10 degrees, which is frustrating. Harry also can't hold the course so manual helming is in order, and at night back to the main. Not very efficient at all. During the night we ran main only and had some chafe on the shrouds - meaning a little repair work today. Fortunately, structurally the sail is sound as it is on the batten.
So, today we hope that the porpoises we saw earlier this morning were a sign of good luck - and thta today we have a good run. One more flying fish on deck this morning, spotted it after the porpoises had gone otherwise we could have made some friends!
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So, today we hope that the porpoises we saw earlier this morning were a sign of good luck - and thta today we have a good run. One more flying fish on deck this morning, spotted it after the porpoises had gone otherwise we could have made some friends!
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Monday 1 December 2014
Log Day 7 - 24 Days to Christmas.....
Oh no, I haven't started shopping yet....Ah well. Another good 24 hours. Yesterday we launched the Parasailor for the first time. The effect on the boat was instant, good speed and the rolling virtually disappeared...so it does do as it says in the brochure. Launching was fun as it was the first time in 5 months. It should be quite simple as everything is colour coded. Obviosuly Jon and I are colour blind as we got it wring three times. Very impressive though when she finally launched. But then we found the extra halyard we had fited slipped very badly. Dyneema again....I am not very hapy with Dyneema any more...back to the originals I think. Eventually someone will invent a jammer that can actually hold it...
No generator today as the Watt and Sea has maintained battery charge well for the past 36 hours.
On a less pleasant note (!) we attempted to clean the heads last night. Seems it is blocked at the sea cocks so no luck. As soon as we get a calm day some lucky volunteer will have the opportunity to swim around and see if we can unblock from the outside. Good be difficult to get a volunteer for that one!
Dinner - found dried chillies, but avoided curry. Nice chicken and chorizo, potato mix with a few vegetables thrown in. Mioni magnums for desert! Bliss.
This night saw the wind drop again which slowed progress but this morning it changed to an easterly and was blowing a reasonable 10 - 15 knots...we need 15 - 20 to really make speed. But, more adventure today as we raised the gennaker on a Port tack for the first time in almost a week. Best through the water speed so far 11.4 Knots.
So, a good day. The electronics are still holding in there. Hopefully another good day ahead.
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No generator today as the Watt and Sea has maintained battery charge well for the past 36 hours.
On a less pleasant note (!) we attempted to clean the heads last night. Seems it is blocked at the sea cocks so no luck. As soon as we get a calm day some lucky volunteer will have the opportunity to swim around and see if we can unblock from the outside. Good be difficult to get a volunteer for that one!
Dinner - found dried chillies, but avoided curry. Nice chicken and chorizo, potato mix with a few vegetables thrown in. Mioni magnums for desert! Bliss.
This night saw the wind drop again which slowed progress but this morning it changed to an easterly and was blowing a reasonable 10 - 15 knots...we need 15 - 20 to really make speed. But, more adventure today as we raised the gennaker on a Port tack for the first time in almost a week. Best through the water speed so far 11.4 Knots.
So, a good day. The electronics are still holding in there. Hopefully another good day ahead.
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Sunday 30 November 2014
Log Day 6 - First flying fish of the trip!
Noon position yesterday was 23 41 N, 29 24 W so just above the tropics (20 N). Weather grey and dull....what is going on here?
Trick of the day? The electronics came back on line, no reason why...although we believe that it may be because Jon had a shower...
The main news of the day is that we have passed the first 1000 NM at sea and our first date line so the ships clock went back one hour. A first for us. So, only a few more miles to go to St Lucia!I guess w ecan get at least another 7 curries in before we get there. I guess all of the yachts within a 100 NM no exactly where we are.
One heads still blocked....no one prepared to go over the side and poke through the hull fitting - where we expect the blockage to be. Expect it will be one of Rob's toys....
This morning we had two yachts within sight, our friend Maravilha is still with us - another Hanse. On deck we also found a flying fish, unfortunately dead, but the first one ever. Hopefully the rest will manage to avoid us for the rest of the journey.
Until tomorrow!
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Trick of the day? The electronics came back on line, no reason why...although we believe that it may be because Jon had a shower...
The main news of the day is that we have passed the first 1000 NM at sea and our first date line so the ships clock went back one hour. A first for us. So, only a few more miles to go to St Lucia!I guess w ecan get at least another 7 curries in before we get there. I guess all of the yachts within a 100 NM no exactly where we are.
One heads still blocked....no one prepared to go over the side and poke through the hull fitting - where we expect the blockage to be. Expect it will be one of Rob's toys....
This morning we had two yachts within sight, our friend Maravilha is still with us - another Hanse. On deck we also found a flying fish, unfortunately dead, but the first one ever. Hopefully the rest will manage to avoid us for the rest of the journey.
Until tomorrow!
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Saturday 29 November 2014
Log Day 5 - Chop of his head!
Day 5, we continue to stay as North as we can given the winds. But we are gradually heading South. Today we will pass 30 degrees west so a time change will be in order! The loser on board will have an extra period on their shift :-). Two major events today and one minor.
The biggest blow is we have a blocked heads, so we will be drawing straws today to see who has the pleasure of the cleaning them!!! Not a major issue as we do have two more to play with.
Next, the 2nd reef chafed through in the night, but again easily solved with a soft shackle. Minor inconvenience that we can't reef from the helm anymore.
Last of all, the electronics have started to play games with us, cutting in and out. Again a minor convenience as we have plenty of back ups. But very frustrating!
Last night we came within a few hundred meters of a 300 meter container ship, quite a sight, and an opportunity to chat to someone about their intentions. Their intention was to keep going...so, fair enough!!
Curry again for tea, Beef today, using the last of the fresh chillies (Jon as Chef)...thank goodness as the atmosphere on board has got pretty feisty....
Hopefully fair winds again today. We are making 8 - 9 knots on the beam. Forecast puts it astern by Monday so we are still waiting to get the Parasailor out!
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The biggest blow is we have a blocked heads, so we will be drawing straws today to see who has the pleasure of the cleaning them!!! Not a major issue as we do have two more to play with.
Next, the 2nd reef chafed through in the night, but again easily solved with a soft shackle. Minor inconvenience that we can't reef from the helm anymore.
Last of all, the electronics have started to play games with us, cutting in and out. Again a minor convenience as we have plenty of back ups. But very frustrating!
Last night we came within a few hundred meters of a 300 meter container ship, quite a sight, and an opportunity to chat to someone about their intentions. Their intention was to keep going...so, fair enough!!
Curry again for tea, Beef today, using the last of the fresh chillies (Jon as Chef)...thank goodness as the atmosphere on board has got pretty feisty....
Hopefully fair winds again today. We are making 8 - 9 knots on the beam. Forecast puts it astern by Monday so we are still waiting to get the Parasailor out!
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Friday 28 November 2014
Log Day 4 - For God, St George and King HArry!
Well, for once a quiet day, nothing lost, nothing broke, nothing to worry about. So a pleasant day. We are still staying to the Northern route but a steady NNW wind last night forced us South. Good winds though so we achieved good progress, 200 NM or so in the day.
Another fish bit in the afternoon, but alas, we can only talk about the one that got away. Dinner a la Rob was pasta Chorizo blend with a few red chilli peppers just to remind you how little you can taste once you have swallowed a couple. Generator on in the evening and the chance to watch a couple of episodes of "whatever happened tio the likely lads", nothing better to realise the generation gap. Nigel and David "Brilliant", Rob "I sort of get it", Jon and Chris "What??.
The good news is that King Harry (The Hydrovane) is working very well so the loss of the Jefra auto pilot is easier to take, and saves a lot of time at the helm. The crew are pleased. Today the wind continues from the NNW at 4 - 5, we are waiting for it to turn behind us so that we can finally get the Parasailor out??
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Another fish bit in the afternoon, but alas, we can only talk about the one that got away. Dinner a la Rob was pasta Chorizo blend with a few red chilli peppers just to remind you how little you can taste once you have swallowed a couple. Generator on in the evening and the chance to watch a couple of episodes of "whatever happened tio the likely lads", nothing better to realise the generation gap. Nigel and David "Brilliant", Rob "I sort of get it", Jon and Chris "What??.
The good news is that King Harry (The Hydrovane) is working very well so the loss of the Jefra auto pilot is easier to take, and saves a lot of time at the helm. The crew are pleased. Today the wind continues from the NNW at 4 - 5, we are waiting for it to turn behind us so that we can finally get the Parasailor out??
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Thursday 27 November 2014
Log Day 3. Sponge Rob - Fish Pants
An interesting day to say the least. A good start with the fishing, with Jon ad Chris landing a good sized Dorada, so we had fresh fish for lunch. Rob cooked her up and with a little lemon we had a great meal.
Then the day became interesting to say the least. The autopilot failed completely mid afternoon, unhappy memories resurfaced with the issues we had with our old Hanse and also with our neighbours Matilda at Las Palmas. A message sent to Hanse so hopefully we have some clues on where to start later today.
Evening trundled along, and now Harry the Hydrovane was coming into his own. In the evening with potential of higher winds over night we threw in two reefs. The crew managed showers and so we cranked up the generator for the first time and set the watermaker going. We then sat down to watch the evening movie, Divergent (which has received mixed reviews from the crew (Jon, complicated plot, Rob, Rubbish). Checking around I opened up the floor to look at the water maker lines and found an awful lot of water sloshing around. very strange as Miss Liz II is a very dry boat. A quick taste test revealed it was fresh water...Phew! A quick check of the water levels in Tank 2 showed zero....where had the 69% gone.....and also the 80 liters we had made....obvious answer the bilge, question why? The main water pump was running with no taps open and we traced it finally to the shower on the transom. It was on and the head had blown off, meaning all of our water was in the bilge. Out cae the buckets and sponge, plus a handy hand pump in the locker and the next two hours saw the guys pump out over two hundred liters of water. So, genny stayed on until mid night to get us up to 50% level of water again.
As if that was not enough the Watt and Sea hydrogenerator started to make a horrendous noise, so we pulled it out of the water. Another bit of fun as we calculated power consumption and how we would handle the new situation. Not a problem for us as plenty of fuel onboard for the genny. This morning though we tried the Watt and Sea again and working fine, so all we can think is that the rudder angle we set for Harry to woirk well was causing a vortex which led to the wash on the prop being uneven and hence vibration.
So a fun day, truly Sponge Rob, Fish Pants!! Let's hope today is quieter and we can fix the auto pilot.
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Then the day became interesting to say the least. The autopilot failed completely mid afternoon, unhappy memories resurfaced with the issues we had with our old Hanse and also with our neighbours Matilda at Las Palmas. A message sent to Hanse so hopefully we have some clues on where to start later today.
Evening trundled along, and now Harry the Hydrovane was coming into his own. In the evening with potential of higher winds over night we threw in two reefs. The crew managed showers and so we cranked up the generator for the first time and set the watermaker going. We then sat down to watch the evening movie, Divergent (which has received mixed reviews from the crew (Jon, complicated plot, Rob, Rubbish). Checking around I opened up the floor to look at the water maker lines and found an awful lot of water sloshing around. very strange as Miss Liz II is a very dry boat. A quick taste test revealed it was fresh water...Phew! A quick check of the water levels in Tank 2 showed zero....where had the 69% gone.....and also the 80 liters we had made....obvious answer the bilge, question why? The main water pump was running with no taps open and we traced it finally to the shower on the transom. It was on and the head had blown off, meaning all of our water was in the bilge. Out cae the buckets and sponge, plus a handy hand pump in the locker and the next two hours saw the guys pump out over two hundred liters of water. So, genny stayed on until mid night to get us up to 50% level of water again.
As if that was not enough the Watt and Sea hydrogenerator started to make a horrendous noise, so we pulled it out of the water. Another bit of fun as we calculated power consumption and how we would handle the new situation. Not a problem for us as plenty of fuel onboard for the genny. This morning though we tried the Watt and Sea again and working fine, so all we can think is that the rudder angle we set for Harry to woirk well was causing a vortex which led to the wash on the prop being uneven and hence vibration.
So a fun day, truly Sponge Rob, Fish Pants!! Let's hope today is quieter and we can fix the auto pilot.
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Wednesday 26 November 2014
Log Day 2 - The one that got away
Todays highlight? Without doubt Chris and Jon fishing. They had something BIG on the line....so big they couldn't keep it so they had to cut the line before they lost too much gear. After much debate they have now decided that the big lure will not be making an appearance!
On board all is well, highlight Chicken Curry for dinner. The Watt and Sea generator means that we have still not had to use the generator - even after the evenings entertainment of 2 hours of Bo Selector. Now, there's a bit of TV history! Winds remained steady, and we resisted launching the gennaker. In the evening winds blew at a steady 20 Knots meaning our average speed lay between 9 and 10 Knots. Night sailing remained the same but we lost the autopilot several times. Nothing major - and some fun for the crew who were short on night sailing experience. If this wind keeps steady we should beat the 170 miles we managed yesterday.....could be well over 200 today....
As a result of the autopilot fun, today saw Harry (the Hydrovane) at work. Working well but the varying winds mean continual attention. Bodes well for this evening. The gennaker appeared from the locker.....and a usual the wind picked up so now sitting on the deck forelornly hoping to fly. We kept ourselves happy with an Egg and toast sadwich prepared by Rob the Chef.
We are currently still running on the direct line, about 8 boats around us, one of which is Challenger 1. Let's see if we can keep up.......
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On board all is well, highlight Chicken Curry for dinner. The Watt and Sea generator means that we have still not had to use the generator - even after the evenings entertainment of 2 hours of Bo Selector. Now, there's a bit of TV history! Winds remained steady, and we resisted launching the gennaker. In the evening winds blew at a steady 20 Knots meaning our average speed lay between 9 and 10 Knots. Night sailing remained the same but we lost the autopilot several times. Nothing major - and some fun for the crew who were short on night sailing experience. If this wind keeps steady we should beat the 170 miles we managed yesterday.....could be well over 200 today....
As a result of the autopilot fun, today saw Harry (the Hydrovane) at work. Working well but the varying winds mean continual attention. Bodes well for this evening. The gennaker appeared from the locker.....and a usual the wind picked up so now sitting on the deck forelornly hoping to fly. We kept ourselves happy with an Egg and toast sadwich prepared by Rob the Chef.
We are currently still running on the direct line, about 8 boats around us, one of which is Challenger 1. Let's see if we can keep up.......
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Tuesday 25 November 2014
Log : Day 1
Finally underway - and what an interesting day it turned out to be! Great to see all of the yachts heading out, passing the start line the first event was a Finn nearby blowing out his Gennaker. Not the best of starts. We headed South West and then cut back to head south of Gran Canaria. Straight through the acceleration zone south of the Airport. With winds gusting up to 35 Knots we had an exhilierating sail.and forced us to practise our reefing skills. Highlight for us was Chris and Jon trying to fish.....wrapping up the Watt and Sea generator which we then had to clear.....and in the process the electrical connector broke off so we had to fix that too. As Jon worked on the transom a Dolphin came to see what he was up to .... and made him jump (to put it mildly!). First diinner at Sea, Shepherd pie, prepared by Daughter Kathryn - made for a good end to the day.
The evening saw the wind drop, and we motored for a couple of hours before the wind decided to blow again with gusts up to 35 Knots, resulting in us putting in a couple of reefs while maintaining 8 knots +. Morning arrived and the wind continued to blow at 20 - 30 Knots, an accidental gybe meant some repairwork to a block on the main...fortunately no further damage...Log for the day 190 NM. We continue on the Northern route as weather continues to look good. If we see a change we will head south!
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The evening saw the wind drop, and we motored for a couple of hours before the wind decided to blow again with gusts up to 35 Knots, resulting in us putting in a couple of reefs while maintaining 8 knots +. Morning arrived and the wind continued to blow at 20 - 30 Knots, an accidental gybe meant some repairwork to a block on the main...fortunately no further damage...Log for the day 190 NM. We continue on the Northern route as weather continues to look good. If we see a change we will head south!
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Sunday 23 November 2014
Log Day 0 - Excitement Builds
0630. An early morning and the wind has quietened down a little to a 15 - 20 Knot blow. Much more comfortable. For the moment no wind - a blessing!!! Crew is ready (Clean and shiny.....although not quite new!), Miss Liz II (Clean and shiney....and almost new) is ready, now we just need to go!
Log day 0, or -1..
An interesting evening, winds moving to 30 knots and plenty of movement on the berth leaving a few chafe marks on Poor old Miss Liz II. This morning, with the full complement on board after Rob's late arrival and comforted by a late Tapas the night before, and a thorough drenching in town, we faced our neighbors, Hera, having lost a bow line being blown onto the pontoon. So bow lines had to be rigged between us, and also from Miss Liz II to Bikini on our port side. It also meant the bathing platform had scraped the pontoon - with some minor gel coat damage.
If that was not enough, the dress flags had broken off at the main halyard, and so Jon-Boy was volunteered to climb the mast - in 20 knots of wind, sporting our new ski helmet for protection, a go-pro on his head and a fierce grimace on his face. Eventually job completed, and ready to go - until the morning news update on VHF. Cruisers cancelled for 18 hours. Probably for the best. I can imagine the fun of a couple of hundred yachts trying to leave the Harbour this morning in this wind. I think a lot of damage, and money has been saved.
The good news is that the winds favour the shorter northern route, so that should save the time we have lost.
Sent from my iPad
If that was not enough, the dress flags had broken off at the main halyard, and so Jon-Boy was volunteered to climb the mast - in 20 knots of wind, sporting our new ski helmet for protection, a go-pro on his head and a fierce grimace on his face. Eventually job completed, and ready to go - until the morning news update on VHF. Cruisers cancelled for 18 hours. Probably for the best. I can imagine the fun of a couple of hundred yachts trying to leave the Harbour this morning in this wind. I think a lot of damage, and money has been saved.
The good news is that the winds favour the shorter northern route, so that should save the time we have lost.
Sent from my iPad
Wednesday 19 November 2014
The difference a day makes....19th November
What a difference a da makes. A low passes over so the day is rain followed by more rain and then rain with thunder. Perfect. Nigel is on his way, having left Houston last night so eta tomorrow morning to be crew #1, followed in the afternoon by Chris and Jon. Today more lectures, so it keeps me dry, and we should have the last glitch on the aircon fixed (only blowing out of one vent in the forepeak - not an issue but the one working is like a hurricane! New main halyard on order, hopefully it will work better than the existing sloppy dyneema we have on board...back to basics with braid on braid. So, fun day ahead.
Tuesday 18 November 2014
Preparations
The yellow brick tracker is now on the boat and you can track our travels at www.worldcruisingclub.com/ARC. Then click on the tracker, don't be too much in a hurry as it takes time to load. Apparently you need to download the tracker app if you have an iPad etc.
My friendly German neighbors were in the water this lunch time, so I asked them to check the anodes. All ok apparently which is good news....but I think I need to check them myself before Thursday.....
This afternoon we get to attend the provisioning lecture.....as I've already shopped I just hope I got it right! Then last of all, down wind sailing. Should be fun. Then relaxation with a few glasses and friends at the sundowner.
Nearly ready
18th November
Well, not far from the start now and hundreds of boats have arrived in Gran Canaria. Many jobs to do, but luckily nothing major. Although food shopping has become a major event! Today an area of seminars, from rigging to food provisioning to downwind sailing. Plus a big load of food arrives. Good suppor from Corte des Ingles. Also found an M&S. So the excitement builds, and the crew arrived Thursday...almost all, with Rob risking a last minute Saturday arrival!
The big question at the moment is weather...whether or not we will have a good blow at the start!
Photos will follow this evening once I get back to the computer.
Well, not far from the start now and hundreds of boats have arrived in Gran Canaria. Many jobs to do, but luckily nothing major. Although food shopping has become a major event! Today an area of seminars, from rigging to food provisioning to downwind sailing. Plus a big load of food arrives. Good suppor from Corte des Ingles. Also found an M&S. So the excitement builds, and the crew arrived Thursday...almost all, with Rob risking a last minute Saturday arrival!
The big question at the moment is weather...whether or not we will have a good blow at the start!
Photos will follow this evening once I get back to the computer.
Sunday 26 October 2014
October 26th - Quick Update
Well, less than 28 days until we leave Gran Canaria for the Caribbean. Last plans being made, plus starting to plan the voyage home next year (easier said than done with none of the crew available for the return trip!). Good news in Gran Canaria with Rolnautics checking out the main halyard jammer...and I am told it does now Jam! Same team have received the replacement units for the a/c in the forepeak and so that will be installed next week. So, by the time we return to MLII she should be 100% shipshape and ready to go.
Well, less than 28 days until we leave Gran Canaria for the Caribbean. Last plans being made, plus starting to plan the voyage home next year (easier said than done with none of the crew available for the return trip!). Good news in Gran Canaria with Rolnautics checking out the main halyard jammer...and I am told it does now Jam! Same team have received the replacement units for the a/c in the forepeak and so that will be installed next week. So, by the time we return to MLII she should be 100% shipshape and ready to go.
Sunday 12 October 2014
October 12th, 2014 - Gran Canaria
A visit down for a long weekend to work on Miss Liz II. Miss Liz in attendance to make sure the work is done properly!
Friday saw the visit from the Aircon team to look at the fore peak unit. Bad news is that it is kaput, good news is that a new unit is being sent from the UK to replace it and it should be here early next week. Under guarantee so better news still. Water maker working well, and the generator kicked in on demand.
Dinghy had its first airing of the season and the Old Zodiac still floats and holds its air. The 2.5hp Suzuki outboard started first time - a year after it was last used in anger, All praise to Suzuki engineering!
No main halyard replacement Jammer yet to replace the existing "no grip" version, but hopefully Hanse will have it here soon. Other small jobs now ticked off include the furthest Aft furling line block, a perennial problem with the seldon blocks is that they lock and as the line runs through it they wear unevenly - eventually the friction just flattens it out and it seizes completely. Now have a Barton block in place so hopefully that will solve the problem. Transom lock replacement received from Hanse did not fit (last one the bolt flew off into the deep blue), new one requested so hopefully it will be here soon. Annoyingly a spring loaded design - which no chandlery or DIY shop seemms to stock!
Socially, many ARC participants are here, including Julian and his wife and their Benateau (met on the HYS week long maintenance course earlier in the year!), good to see he made it safely!
Yesterday we had a quick tour of the island, Tapas at a restaurant high in the mountains - excellent. Day spoilt when we found out that our house in Switzerland had been burgled. Definitely not a way to cheer up your day!
Tomorrow the Volvo team come to service the engine before we journey home on Tuesday. Hopefully no more shocks and surprises on the boat or at home!
A visit down for a long weekend to work on Miss Liz II. Miss Liz in attendance to make sure the work is done properly!
Friday saw the visit from the Aircon team to look at the fore peak unit. Bad news is that it is kaput, good news is that a new unit is being sent from the UK to replace it and it should be here early next week. Under guarantee so better news still. Water maker working well, and the generator kicked in on demand.
Dinghy had its first airing of the season and the Old Zodiac still floats and holds its air. The 2.5hp Suzuki outboard started first time - a year after it was last used in anger, All praise to Suzuki engineering!
No main halyard replacement Jammer yet to replace the existing "no grip" version, but hopefully Hanse will have it here soon. Other small jobs now ticked off include the furthest Aft furling line block, a perennial problem with the seldon blocks is that they lock and as the line runs through it they wear unevenly - eventually the friction just flattens it out and it seizes completely. Now have a Barton block in place so hopefully that will solve the problem. Transom lock replacement received from Hanse did not fit (last one the bolt flew off into the deep blue), new one requested so hopefully it will be here soon. Annoyingly a spring loaded design - which no chandlery or DIY shop seemms to stock!
Socially, many ARC participants are here, including Julian and his wife and their Benateau (met on the HYS week long maintenance course earlier in the year!), good to see he made it safely!
Yesterday we had a quick tour of the island, Tapas at a restaurant high in the mountains - excellent. Day spoilt when we found out that our house in Switzerland had been burgled. Definitely not a way to cheer up your day!
Tomorrow the Volvo team come to service the engine before we journey home on Tuesday. Hopefully no more shocks and surprises on the boat or at home!
Sunday 14 September 2014
And On to Gran Canaria!
28th August, 2014. Portosin to Pavoa de Varzim. 95 NM.
After a great meal at the Marina the night before, another early (ish) start as today we really wanted to get to Porto. The morning weather was bright and sunny, with no wind, OK force 1! Quite a change from two days ago. So we motored out of Portosin and through the Ria and back into the Atlantic. Still a good swell following the storms but a monotonous motor broken by a reappearance of Dolphins just before lunch. The afternoon, as usual, saw the wind starting to pick up and by 14.30 we had enough to get the sail up and start to Motor Sail.
Dave at the helm..
Leaving the Ria to start the South Sail to Porto (ish).
Highlights of the day.....dodging the trawlers...
Strange clouds building, but nothing came of it...
Motoring again.....ah well, time to catch up with PBO.....and sailing world....how to spot if your keel will fall off!
Dolphins!
What wind!
Dave trying to keep the deck clear while the sun shines!
More trawlers!
After a long days cruise, the headland before Povoa de Varzim.We had been optimistic thinking to reach Porto but nevertheless a good days run of 95 NM.
A good run for the day, and as we made the Marina a friendly face met us as we docked on the hammer head. Which was covered in a nice layer of guano!
29th August, Povoa de Varzim to Figuera da Foz. 85 NM.
A later start today (0940), gave us chance to stock up with cake and fresh bread from the town. Not the prettiest of places, a bit run down, but pleasant. Also found out that we nearly ran aground as we came in on the low tide last night - and that the entrance to the marina has silted up a little in some areas. More by luck than judgement (obviously!) we had made it in OK!!
Another beautiful day and again we spent the morning dodging trawlers and lobster pots!
A motoring start until the wind picked up again by 14.30, when we managed to sail - no engine! Nice Force 5 coming from the NW for once! So our speed picked up and we started to eat the miles. We made it to just off the River leading into Figuera by 21.00, averaging almost 8 knots for the day. Diesel tank 1 was reading empty at 15.00, but my calculation wast still at least 50 liters! I hate the digital tank levels! Lift the hatch and tapping the tank seems to give the best measure!
We made it into the Marina by 9pm. Berthing at the Fuel dock as no-one was in sight. God position as we needed to fuel in the morning. Took the time to check out the town, which was pleasant, and find a shop for provisioning in the morning.
30th August. Figuera de Foz to Peniche. 59 NM
A shorter run today, so a slowish start. Quick run to the shops for provisions, then topped up the fuel tank. 106 liters needed, meaning about 50 liters left as expected! Average fuel consumption a healthy 4.3 Liters hour with avg rpm at 1900.
Another slightly misty start, soon clearing to a beautiful day. Light winds again 1-3, so motorsailing was in order. We made Peniche, by 1800 after a relatively easy day. However, everyone stops early in the port so we would have to wait to 7am in the morning to clear out.
A beautiful calm day.
Light house at the point as we turned in to Peniche.
This time from the other side!
The harbour was busy so we rafted against a Cat manned by a pleasant German couple.
Peniche town, with castle. We found a pleasant store where the owner tried to get us to buy everything in the shop!
A pretty town, with tourists and trawlers heading out all day - producing a tremendous wake. 3 Knot speed limit? Really??!!!
31st August. Peniche to Oeiras (Lisbon) 48 NM
The Marina security team was due to start at 7, but as this is Portugal they arrived at 7.20. Getting use to Portugese life now! So we paid and left by 7.40, in the sun for an easy run down to Lisbon.
F3 again so mostly motor sailing and a simple non-eventful trip until we neared the Marina - when we had fun dodging our way through a race.
One other yacht out!
Lighthouse as we entered the Ria that contains Lisbon.
King of the World!
Dodging the fleet!!
Entrance to Oeiras. Easy entry despite fast tide flow outside the harbour. Inside, we were treated to a great berth on the quayside, by the bars and shops.
Miss Liz II at rest, showing off the ARC flag for our discount :-).
The rest of the day we spent provisioning and consuming Tapas at the Bars. Our new crew, Paul Fitzsimons joined us having arrived from Pamplona that morning. The marina was excellent with good facilities and very, very helpful marina staff who couldn't do enough for us.
1st September - 4th September Oeiras to the Madeira Archipelago, 521 NM
A late start as we had plenty of time. Coffee at the cafe, followed by having fun at the "swindlery" getting an electrical converter for shore power and also some fuel treatment. We topped up the fuel (4.5 liters hour average), then set off.
Initially we motored until we could launch the Jib, which was the cue for thick fog to appear and the radar watch went on. It lasted an hour until the wind picked up to a 5 from the West...beating again!!! By 19.00 we were passing through the traffic lanes, which were relatively quiet.
19.30 Dolphins again to brighten up our day. It's amazing how much they cheer you up!
OK, Madeira, hmm, few days away but making sure I understand the entry procedures!
Our new crew member Paul on watch!
As night closed in the skies were clear, and initially no moon so the sky was stunning as the Milky Way shone through. Plenty of shooting stars to watch, leaving fascinating smoke rails behind them.
As Miss Liz II quietly cut through the waves, the phosphorescence on the bow wave and wake as stunning, and even the trip to the heads was brightened up as pumping out caused the lines and bowl to glow an incredible yellow.
93 NM run for the day.
September 2nd, good start with some light fog in the morning. One ship altered course in the night to avoid us but otherwise a very quiet evening. The wind had dropped in the night, with engine needed at 0300, but by 9.45 we were back on sail with Harry (our hydrovane now has a name) at the helm. More dolphins in the day to brighten up a quiet day. No ships, all very quiet.
Only downside was the main halyard jammer which still does not hold. an 8mm line just slipped through completely. Need to replace before the ARC.
Sunshine and a quiet day.
3rd September. Moonset at 00.45. Again, an incredible star lit night with phoshorescence around the ship.
With the wind in our face the engine came back on at 0200 and the Jib brought in as it started to flog. More dolphins in the day and at 1200, we switched to Diesel Tank 2, even though we had plenty left in 1. Genset on in the afternoon and we made over 100 liters of water. Great for everyone to get a shower. Luxury!!! As evening came the wind dropped further and so we motored through the night until 0500 when we had enough of a breeze to sail again. Shooting stars and meteorites again showing strongly throughout the night, and near morning, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus (the planet!) all visible in the dawn sky.
4th September
Anticipation rising as we saw land early in the day! Decision made that we would berth in Porto Santo rather than taking another 4 -5 hours to get to Madeira. So by Noon we were at berth in the pleasant harbour. Berthed next to a monstrous Cat of 70 ft.
The good news was that for the 12 hour run, we achieved 109 NM, speeds getting up to 9 Knots plus under sail. Bad news......spotted engine oil (small amount) under the engine, and drive belt squealed on start up....
Porto Santo Ho!!!
Three very good days sailing....521 NM. Good going with average speed of 8 Knots.
And here comes the mist again, rounding the Island off the SW of Porto Santo.
Entering Porto Santo Harbour
View of the volcanic landscape around the Marina.
Fishing fleet in the main harbour.
The massive Cat! 4 people on board. We decided it was actually an apartment in disguise!
Memorabilia on the harbour wall, other visiting yachts. Wish we had some paint! Maybe next time!
Had to have a picture taken with this one...
Beach at the main town. Interesting fact, Madeira has no beaches so folks visit Porto Santo at the weekend for their beach "fix".
Decided to have dinner on shore (to save Dave more effort (although he is a great cook!!). Coffee at the Marina cafe first though....
Paul, coffee or wine....let me think? Wine 1 euro a glass, coffee 80 cents.....hard choice...
5th - 7th September. Porto Santo to Gran Canaria. 331 NM.
Up at a reasonable time of 8, as we were meant to meeting the fuel guy on the harbour side at 9.15. Oh, sorry, forgot, we are still in Portugal.....so he turned up at 10.30.... A 192 Liter fill meant we were using fuel at the rate of 3.4 Liters / hour. Much better. Note to self. RPM stays at 1500 - 1800 rpm in future!
So off by 11am on yet another gorgeous day. Miraculously the wind had shifted....on to our bow again. What is it with this weather!
Never the less we managed to sail with the wind building to a 5/6. Too make life more comfortable we even made the effort to put a reef in. Great day sailing, and we made over 102 NM in a 12 hour stretch with speeds upto 9 knots not uncommon.
Leaving Porto Santo Behind. Nice Island, nice people. Go there!
Paul pondering on whether to top up the tank....after all, we had used the genset for an hour.. 60 liters water. More showers for all!
Paul, it cant be my shift again already!
DJ, on the Night shift....
6th September
beautiful night, yet again. It really is a fantastic experience when you have the shift too yourself. Very quiet, not a ship spotted all night. Ghostly storm petrels shooting by liven up the night.
Wind shifted in the the night though...on the nose again! Engine on at 0640 and the wind had dropped to 6 knots. Damn. By 1000 the Islas de Salvagem were spotted, uninhabited but a Portugese National park. Whales spotted about 2 NM away, Paul disappointed we didn't go and see....
Paul "how do I turn this thing around without nobody noticing......"
More water generated in the afternoon. Engine checks - no more oil spotted....Good!!
7th September
0000. Land Ho! Gran Canaria lights spotted and the dipping Lighthouse at La Isletta clear to see. Another good night, more traffic now as we approached Gran Canaria, and by 0630 we were off Las Palmas.
Now the fun as we threaded our way through many anchored vessels, drilling ships and rigs into the harbour and then into the massive marina where we tied up at 0730 on the Visitors pontoon. Despite a Sunday, we were met straight away. Having cleared into Gran Canaria we then made to the fuel pontoon, waiting for a Hanse 545 to clear the dock. Only a small amount of fuel needed, anmd once again 3.5 Liter average per hour. Getting better at the fuel management.
Entering Las Palmas Harbour in the dark...
Dawn breaking as we entered the Marina.
By noon we were on our berth S6. Engine checks revealed small amount of oil, and turning the A/C on found the forepeak unit was not cooling. With 300 hours on the engine booked a service for October with the Island Volvo Penta team and since heard from Aztec Marine that an engineer will visit to check over the A/C unit too. Hanse also confirmed replacement of a few odd parts - including the troublesome Jammer, so we should be god to go.
Dinner that night, as a treat in downtown Las Palmas by the sea front. Excellent food! With flights booked we had a reasonable night.
So after 2 weeks and two days of sailing from Plymouth we had covered almost 1700 Miles, winds up to Storm force and on our nose most of the way. Miss Liz II sailed beautifully and is now ready for the ARC in November.
Thanks to the team of Rob, Chris and Jon for crewing across Biscay, and Paul Fitzsimons from Lisbon to Gran Canaria. Not least to Dave Mackay for the whole trip and cooking some great meals on the way. Watch this space as we prepare for the ARC in October with a visit to check Miss Liz II over before the ARC start in November.
After a great meal at the Marina the night before, another early (ish) start as today we really wanted to get to Porto. The morning weather was bright and sunny, with no wind, OK force 1! Quite a change from two days ago. So we motored out of Portosin and through the Ria and back into the Atlantic. Still a good swell following the storms but a monotonous motor broken by a reappearance of Dolphins just before lunch. The afternoon, as usual, saw the wind starting to pick up and by 14.30 we had enough to get the sail up and start to Motor Sail.
Dave at the helm..
14.30 - wind in our sails!!
Highlights of the day.....dodging the trawlers...
Strange clouds building, but nothing came of it...
Motoring again.....ah well, time to catch up with PBO.....and sailing world....how to spot if your keel will fall off!
Dolphins!
What wind!
Dave trying to keep the deck clear while the sun shines!
More trawlers!
After a long days cruise, the headland before Povoa de Varzim.We had been optimistic thinking to reach Porto but nevertheless a good days run of 95 NM.
A good run for the day, and as we made the Marina a friendly face met us as we docked on the hammer head. Which was covered in a nice layer of guano!
29th August, Povoa de Varzim to Figuera da Foz. 85 NM.
A later start today (0940), gave us chance to stock up with cake and fresh bread from the town. Not the prettiest of places, a bit run down, but pleasant. Also found out that we nearly ran aground as we came in on the low tide last night - and that the entrance to the marina has silted up a little in some areas. More by luck than judgement (obviously!) we had made it in OK!!
Another beautiful day and again we spent the morning dodging trawlers and lobster pots!
A motoring start until the wind picked up again by 14.30, when we managed to sail - no engine! Nice Force 5 coming from the NW for once! So our speed picked up and we started to eat the miles. We made it to just off the River leading into Figuera by 21.00, averaging almost 8 knots for the day. Diesel tank 1 was reading empty at 15.00, but my calculation wast still at least 50 liters! I hate the digital tank levels! Lift the hatch and tapping the tank seems to give the best measure!
We made it into the Marina by 9pm. Berthing at the Fuel dock as no-one was in sight. God position as we needed to fuel in the morning. Took the time to check out the town, which was pleasant, and find a shop for provisioning in the morning.
30th August. Figuera de Foz to Peniche. 59 NM
A shorter run today, so a slowish start. Quick run to the shops for provisions, then topped up the fuel tank. 106 liters needed, meaning about 50 liters left as expected! Average fuel consumption a healthy 4.3 Liters hour with avg rpm at 1900.
Another slightly misty start, soon clearing to a beautiful day. Light winds again 1-3, so motorsailing was in order. We made Peniche, by 1800 after a relatively easy day. However, everyone stops early in the port so we would have to wait to 7am in the morning to clear out.
A beautiful calm day.
Light house at the point as we turned in to Peniche.
This time from the other side!
The harbour was busy so we rafted against a Cat manned by a pleasant German couple.
Peniche town, with castle. We found a pleasant store where the owner tried to get us to buy everything in the shop!
A pretty town, with tourists and trawlers heading out all day - producing a tremendous wake. 3 Knot speed limit? Really??!!!
31st August. Peniche to Oeiras (Lisbon) 48 NM
The Marina security team was due to start at 7, but as this is Portugal they arrived at 7.20. Getting use to Portugese life now! So we paid and left by 7.40, in the sun for an easy run down to Lisbon.
F3 again so mostly motor sailing and a simple non-eventful trip until we neared the Marina - when we had fun dodging our way through a race.
One other yacht out!
Lighthouse as we entered the Ria that contains Lisbon.
King of the World!
Dodging the fleet!!
Entrance to Oeiras. Easy entry despite fast tide flow outside the harbour. Inside, we were treated to a great berth on the quayside, by the bars and shops.
Miss Liz II at rest, showing off the ARC flag for our discount :-).
The rest of the day we spent provisioning and consuming Tapas at the Bars. Our new crew, Paul Fitzsimons joined us having arrived from Pamplona that morning. The marina was excellent with good facilities and very, very helpful marina staff who couldn't do enough for us.
1st September - 4th September Oeiras to the Madeira Archipelago, 521 NM
A late start as we had plenty of time. Coffee at the cafe, followed by having fun at the "swindlery" getting an electrical converter for shore power and also some fuel treatment. We topped up the fuel (4.5 liters hour average), then set off.
Initially we motored until we could launch the Jib, which was the cue for thick fog to appear and the radar watch went on. It lasted an hour until the wind picked up to a 5 from the West...beating again!!! By 19.00 we were passing through the traffic lanes, which were relatively quiet.
19.30 Dolphins again to brighten up our day. It's amazing how much they cheer you up!
OK, Madeira, hmm, few days away but making sure I understand the entry procedures!
Our new crew member Paul on watch!
As night closed in the skies were clear, and initially no moon so the sky was stunning as the Milky Way shone through. Plenty of shooting stars to watch, leaving fascinating smoke rails behind them.
As Miss Liz II quietly cut through the waves, the phosphorescence on the bow wave and wake as stunning, and even the trip to the heads was brightened up as pumping out caused the lines and bowl to glow an incredible yellow.
93 NM run for the day.
September 2nd, good start with some light fog in the morning. One ship altered course in the night to avoid us but otherwise a very quiet evening. The wind had dropped in the night, with engine needed at 0300, but by 9.45 we were back on sail with Harry (our hydrovane now has a name) at the helm. More dolphins in the day to brighten up a quiet day. No ships, all very quiet.
Only downside was the main halyard jammer which still does not hold. an 8mm line just slipped through completely. Need to replace before the ARC.
Sunshine and a quiet day.
3rd September. Moonset at 00.45. Again, an incredible star lit night with phoshorescence around the ship.
With the wind in our face the engine came back on at 0200 and the Jib brought in as it started to flog. More dolphins in the day and at 1200, we switched to Diesel Tank 2, even though we had plenty left in 1. Genset on in the afternoon and we made over 100 liters of water. Great for everyone to get a shower. Luxury!!! As evening came the wind dropped further and so we motored through the night until 0500 when we had enough of a breeze to sail again. Shooting stars and meteorites again showing strongly throughout the night, and near morning, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus (the planet!) all visible in the dawn sky.
4th September
Anticipation rising as we saw land early in the day! Decision made that we would berth in Porto Santo rather than taking another 4 -5 hours to get to Madeira. So by Noon we were at berth in the pleasant harbour. Berthed next to a monstrous Cat of 70 ft.
The good news was that for the 12 hour run, we achieved 109 NM, speeds getting up to 9 Knots plus under sail. Bad news......spotted engine oil (small amount) under the engine, and drive belt squealed on start up....
Porto Santo Ho!!!
Three very good days sailing....521 NM. Good going with average speed of 8 Knots.
And here comes the mist again, rounding the Island off the SW of Porto Santo.
Entering Porto Santo Harbour
View of the volcanic landscape around the Marina.
Fishing fleet in the main harbour.
The massive Cat! 4 people on board. We decided it was actually an apartment in disguise!
Memorabilia on the harbour wall, other visiting yachts. Wish we had some paint! Maybe next time!
Had to have a picture taken with this one...
Beach at the main town. Interesting fact, Madeira has no beaches so folks visit Porto Santo at the weekend for their beach "fix".
Decided to have dinner on shore (to save Dave more effort (although he is a great cook!!). Coffee at the Marina cafe first though....
Paul, coffee or wine....let me think? Wine 1 euro a glass, coffee 80 cents.....hard choice...
5th - 7th September. Porto Santo to Gran Canaria. 331 NM.
Up at a reasonable time of 8, as we were meant to meeting the fuel guy on the harbour side at 9.15. Oh, sorry, forgot, we are still in Portugal.....so he turned up at 10.30.... A 192 Liter fill meant we were using fuel at the rate of 3.4 Liters / hour. Much better. Note to self. RPM stays at 1500 - 1800 rpm in future!
So off by 11am on yet another gorgeous day. Miraculously the wind had shifted....on to our bow again. What is it with this weather!
Never the less we managed to sail with the wind building to a 5/6. Too make life more comfortable we even made the effort to put a reef in. Great day sailing, and we made over 102 NM in a 12 hour stretch with speeds upto 9 knots not uncommon.
Leaving Porto Santo Behind. Nice Island, nice people. Go there!
Paul pondering on whether to top up the tank....after all, we had used the genset for an hour.. 60 liters water. More showers for all!
Paul, it cant be my shift again already!
DJ, on the Night shift....
6th September
beautiful night, yet again. It really is a fantastic experience when you have the shift too yourself. Very quiet, not a ship spotted all night. Ghostly storm petrels shooting by liven up the night.
Wind shifted in the the night though...on the nose again! Engine on at 0640 and the wind had dropped to 6 knots. Damn. By 1000 the Islas de Salvagem were spotted, uninhabited but a Portugese National park. Whales spotted about 2 NM away, Paul disappointed we didn't go and see....
Paul "how do I turn this thing around without nobody noticing......"
More water generated in the afternoon. Engine checks - no more oil spotted....Good!!
7th September
0000. Land Ho! Gran Canaria lights spotted and the dipping Lighthouse at La Isletta clear to see. Another good night, more traffic now as we approached Gran Canaria, and by 0630 we were off Las Palmas.
Now the fun as we threaded our way through many anchored vessels, drilling ships and rigs into the harbour and then into the massive marina where we tied up at 0730 on the Visitors pontoon. Despite a Sunday, we were met straight away. Having cleared into Gran Canaria we then made to the fuel pontoon, waiting for a Hanse 545 to clear the dock. Only a small amount of fuel needed, anmd once again 3.5 Liter average per hour. Getting better at the fuel management.
Entering Las Palmas Harbour in the dark...
Dawn breaking as we entered the Marina.
By noon we were on our berth S6. Engine checks revealed small amount of oil, and turning the A/C on found the forepeak unit was not cooling. With 300 hours on the engine booked a service for October with the Island Volvo Penta team and since heard from Aztec Marine that an engineer will visit to check over the A/C unit too. Hanse also confirmed replacement of a few odd parts - including the troublesome Jammer, so we should be god to go.
Dinner that night, as a treat in downtown Las Palmas by the sea front. Excellent food! With flights booked we had a reasonable night.
So after 2 weeks and two days of sailing from Plymouth we had covered almost 1700 Miles, winds up to Storm force and on our nose most of the way. Miss Liz II sailed beautifully and is now ready for the ARC in November.
Thanks to the team of Rob, Chris and Jon for crewing across Biscay, and Paul Fitzsimons from Lisbon to Gran Canaria. Not least to Dave Mackay for the whole trip and cooking some great meals on the way. Watch this space as we prepare for the ARC in October with a visit to check Miss Liz II over before the ARC start in November.
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