Position 04°28.2S 143°10.3W – Course 352° – Speed 8.2kn
Today we had a proper day of light to moderate tradewind sailing. Although the clouds were not particularly typical for the trades, the wind was a steady 12 to 15 knots most of the day, until it started increasing a bit in the evening. Right now we’re on a beam reach, doing a steady 8 knots and more.
During the morning and afternoon, the Tecla felt light as a feather. Sarah mentioned it as we handed over the watch last night, saying she was so surprised at how well she’s doing in this light breeze. And she really is. The water rushes by, drawing bubbles as we glide through, and the waves have no grip on her — we just dance off them.
Just after lunch (focaccia with spread and cucumber!), we did a fire drill. The drill went very well, but more importantly: we had the fire hose out and the pump running. So what to do? Bathing suits on — and go! For about 30 minutes, the heat was a little less intense, loud laughter echoed all over the deck, and the deck cooled down a bit too. Luckily we also had some shade from our sails on the aft. All in all, it was a lovely afternoon.
And right now, the night is still dark and the stars are shining bright! The Milky Way is very clear, and falling stars light up the sky whenever they streak by. The moon will rise soon, taking away just a little of the stars’ brilliance — but giving us light on deck in return.
That reminds me of a playlist from our 2023 voyage to Tahiti — one that had only songs about the moon. It puts a big smile on my face, that and the quiet company of memories that like to return when you’re sailing this beautifully. Not interrupting, just accompanying.
All is well on board,
Jet
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