Position: 10°28.0S – 135°50.6W | Course: 292° | Speed: 6.6 knots
Last night brought a brief lull: for about an hour and a half, the wind died down to almost nothing. Sails flapped uselessly, and we drifted in a glassy sea. But just as suddenly as it vanished, the wind returned, filling our sails and carrying us forward at a steady 8 knots. Spirits were high — we talked of celebratory cocktails upon arrival, and even toyed with the idea of a late afternoon swim once anchored.
But as the sun climbed higher this afternoon, so did the heat — and the wind, once our faithful companion, deserted us completely. The sails hung limp, and the gentle swell rocked us without direction.
The forecast had been optimistic, predicting strengthening winds overnight and a solid easterly breeze to push us through the final stretch. Yet the updated GRIB files told a different story: diminishing winds shifting from east-northeast to a more direct easterly. This meant we’d need to gybe at least twice more — a time-consuming maneuver — and we’re running short on time. With that in mind, we decided to sheet in the sails and engage the engine, making the most of the calm conditions to cover the final miles efficiently.
The day has been blisteringly hot — no doubt now, we’re in the tropics. After over 10 days at roughly the same latitude, we’ve only felt the full force of the tropical sun in the past 48 hours. The cooling influence of the Humboldt Current has truly faded. Just two nights ago, we were bundling up in long sleeves and jackets on night watch; tonight, someone chose to sleep on deck just to cool off!
Today’s “Picture of the Day” was a tie between Michael’s breathtaking sunrise capture and Joana’s portrait of First Mate Lisa, proudly displaying the hand-stitched guest flag she made for the Marquesas. It’s a beauty — stitched with care and fluttering in anticipation.
Less than 180 nautical miles to go — excitement is mounting with every passing wave!
All is well on board Jet
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