We are currently anchored on two anchors, waiting out last night’s wind and the 24, possibly 36 hours ahead. To continue, we would have to cross a fairly open stretch of water that seems to boil when the stronger winds pass through.
Last night, we called it quits around 19:00. We could have pushed on for another three or four hours before the stronger winds arrived, but that would have meant finding a suitable anchorage in the pitch dark and rain.
After checking the forecast again, we felt there might be a small weather window in the morning. If we wanted to, we could use that. So we anchored in a beautiful bay, just behind an island, relying on the prediction that the wind would shift from north to west. We dropped the anchor in a shallow patch, had a cup of tea, and turned in.
By 23:30, however, we were all back on deck. The anchor was holding, but the wind had not shifted, and we were uncomfortably close to shore. If the anchor dragged even 15 metres, we could be in trouble. With gusts in the high forties, possibly fifties, we decided to move. We hauled the anchor and repositioned slightly further north within the same bay. This time we set both anchors—two shackles each—in just eight metres of water. That felt much better.
By morning, the wind had eased and we swung gently on the anchors. Still, instead of departing at 07:00, we chose to stay sheltered. A much better weather window is expected from the 2nd of April onwards, with lighter winds, and we are confident we can reach Puerto Montt on time without pushing into these conditions.
Even the local fishermen had taken shelter, tucked away in a small cove to ride out the blow. The three small fishing boats we had seen ahead of us all day long—one towing another, music blasting from the deck—had turned sharply to port at sunset and disappeared into what looked like an impossibly small inlet. But once they secured their stern lines, it revealed itself as a perfect refuge.
So we followed their example. Now we fill the day with rest. Perhaps a board game, or maybe we’ll watch Moana 2 on the beamer—who knows.
This morning’s pancakes, made by Thor, were excellent. The fresh bread was amazing. The wildlife around us—hummingbirds, seals, and possibly an otter—provides a welcome distraction whenever we step outside. And most importantly: the anchors are holding.
All is well on board,
Jet
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