WHALE TO STARBOARD
Wed 9 October 2019
22nd Day: We changed from Yankee Staysail to Spinnaker overnight as the wind continues to back. This results in a slightly flatter boat allowing safer movement around deck. The weather remains blue skies with some cloud with an occasional squall. Crew now beginning to calculate possible arrival dates, counting the days down and talking about that first drink and that first meal. As we near land we start to see more bird life of different variety and today a whale surfaced off our starboard beam beating his tale on the surface as he submerged: a spectacular sight that had all awake crew emerge on deck to witness. We have some unpredictable weather ahead sitting just outside Punta del Este including a wind hole and gusting winds up to 40 knots. Our crossing has to date averaged winds of up to 17 knots so this will prove a sporty end to the first leg race two.
Read more...
OCEAN SPRINT
Wed 9 October 2019
Having finished the ocean sprint with speeds increasing towards the end we are setting our sights on Punta del Este now in earnest. The sky remains blue and heatstroke a real concern still as we head south. Breaks down below essential to rest and re-hydrate during our watches. We continue on port tack and the wind is now backing onto our beam. Our sails trimmed accordingly we are averaging 11-12 knots which is very healthy. The spirit on the boat continues to be high with everyone pulling together. Our skipper Guy continues to guide us through long days and nights. The southern trades are consistent so no sail changes have been required for days. The bilges need to be regularly emptied as in all boats there are inevitable leaks. Sleeping due to the heat is patchy but we all close our eyes and dream of Punta.
Read more...
BLEPHAROPLASTY - OUTSTANDING RESULTS
Wed 9 October 2019
When you're thinking about a cosmetic procedure, you want to ask someone who's had it what it's really like. How will it feel? What is the journey like? You want to put your mind at rest about each stage, from when you first meet your consultant, through the actual procedure, to the aftercare and the end result. Read on to find out about eyelid surgery from a patient who has recently had a Blepharoplasty procedure:
Read more...
TRADE WINDS AND FLYING FISH
Wed 2 October 2019
'Hot out here, both on deck and below. Passed between Africa and the Canaries about 2 days ago. Now passing the Cape Verde group of islands. With the wind behind us, truly in the Trade Winds, all our sailing is with the spinnaker up. It has to be constantly trimmed to maximise performance. We take it in 30 minute stints as concentration is important. Night times are cooler and a welcome relief from the searing heat. We are constantly being visited by migratory birds that have been blown off course. The poor things land and wander round the deck, but sadly their journeys are over and eventually they are returned to the sea. More of a nuisance at night are flying fish. The first you know is they've hit you,. They smell and are not good to eat, so are thrown back."
Read more...
