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 →

I slipped the lines this morning at 0610 and made my way out into an expected F4 on the nose in a lumpy sea under grey skies. The forecast is for the wind to drop but not till much later. Helpfully it is forecast to veer and the sun is due to make an appearance.... Continue Reading →