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 →

The wind died progressively through the evening but maintained sufficient strength and angle to keep the main full drawing while Hejira and I motored languidly on the flattening sea. My first night back underway should have been a gentle introduction allowing untroubled 20 minute catnaps in empty open water. In the event, I began crossing... Continue Reading →