motoring (yes motoring) south at just over 6 knots
So the engine has been on since yesterday mid afternoon. We sailed into a wind hole about 2.30pm and then conducted sea trials to work out the best angle for speed and comfort; we snaked around the ocean for about half an hour testing all different sail and motor configurations and the result was motor sail into the wind as close as possible - about 28 degrees apparent wind. The sea had calmed off and only occasionally sent a curly wave to slam into us and knock out our speed over the ground.
We had calculated that based on our VMG for yesterday afternoon we would be arriving in the BVIs on 22nd December - this confirmed it was time to put the engine on, even though it's actually pretty nice out here. Last night on the radio net we were discussing Christmas plans as many of the boats behind us are also without wind and are a bit worried about fuel supplies; we have used very little until yesterday so were in good shape. A couple of them had however been in for a swim it was so calm.
Our wind was about 6 knots and varied from 6 to 12 over night with a bit of a confused sea with weird currents and swells that would come and go. To keep things comfortable we had to keep adjusted our course a little now and again but mostly just got a good night's sleep. We both find the drone of the engine quite soothing. Today was supposed to be really light winds but its been around 10 knots from the SSE all day, we are expecting it to stay light and move around to the south east, which would be more comfortable for tonight. We should pick up wind for sailing tomorrow from the South East and then East.
When we set off south we left our little pack of three other yachts behind, although we think Moonlight Serenade is on the same track further east. We've picked up a new yacht just a little ahead of us on AIS - they called to wish us happy thanks giving this morning - of and get our latest weather info....
If we can keep this speed up we should arrive in the BVIs on Saturday late afternoon which would be pretty exciting. Bring on the Painkillers.
Happy Thanks Giving American friends out there x x
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