The forecast southerly breeze of 6 knots turned out to be a southerly wind of over 20 knots with big breaking seas. This was actually quite welcome as we were able to make great pace and improve on our intended arrival time so that we had time in hand to be able to take it... Continue Reading →

The continuing adverse current coupled with a short chop and the wind directly on the bow made the morning slow. This was not helped by my decision to ‘skirt’ a military firing range between Otranto and Brindisi, I figured that, given my luck on this passage, I might take a shell just below the water... Continue Reading →

At 14.00, a most remarkable thing happened. The wind picked up to a nice F3/4, Just in front of the beam and with full sail, on a flat sea, in cloud free sunshine, WE SAILED ! This blissful situation turned into a lively romp as the wind built, cracking along at 6-7 knots. This was... Continue Reading →

You might think that the title of this blog suggests an encounter with the United States Air Force, well you would be wrong – read on. The period of sailing after the boisterous exit of the Strait was short lived as the wind disappeared once again and I had to reach for the key to... Continue Reading →

A telephone conversation with the hugely knowledgeable Barry has been very reassuring and once I have carried out a few precautionary adjustments, I feel that the next time I feel compelled to turn the engine off and experience the joys of silent sailing; I will have a better idea of how to address any ensuing... Continue Reading →