ROCKING AND ROLLING

Yesterday was a day of changing conditions. First it was just sunny, easy, and smooth. Then two squalls appeared, which we had to try to outrun. We were only successful outrunning the first one. The second one got us. While outside the squall the boat was rocking and rolling. Once in the squall the water beat the seas down, and it was smooth. In the end the boat was fully rinsed.

Yesterday the winds were flukey. Sails went out. Sails went in. Sails went out. Sails went in. Only late in the day did the motor go off for any significant period. But then it stayed off for most of the night. This morning at about 03:30 we started the engine to charge batteries and make hot water for another round of showers. We are doing well with water here near the end of the voyage, so we can afford the daily showers.

We are also doing well with fuel. It is likely we will land with half a tank or more. We expect to use about 80 gallons total, at a rate of about 1 gallon per hour.

This morning we learned all about two boats wanting the same acre of water even though we are in the middle of the ocean 500 miles from any continent. We had to change course to avoid a tanker, only the third one we have even seen in three days.

Right now we are moving well, motorsailing. We have about 160 miles to go. We are thinking landfall tomorrow morning. Then champagne!

06/20/2008
10:46:37 GMT
34° 35.48' N
66° 30.45' W