Whales, sunshine but no wind..

33’42.8S 075’53.5W course 014 speed 6,6kn

Where we were able to sail for a few hours yesterday, today that was not possible. Hardly any wind and a massive swell were running and so we have been under engine all day. BUT we had sunshine!! Which was a very big relieve, as we had enough days of rain already! 

We were treated with at least three whale sightings! One was a group of long finned pilot whales, and in the middle of their group there seemed to be a minke whale making its way west as the pilot whales swam North with us, Their shiny black rounded noses kept coming up and as they rode the wave with us, more and more appeared. We could not count them precisely but we figured there where at least 25! 

Then Bob and I spotted a spout in the distance, we changed course to see if we could get close again, but the spout was seen another 3 times and then nothing,.. 

And just an hour ago, during our dark night watch, Joana and I hear a loud breathing next to the ship and 30 seconds later, we saw the spout and a gleaming body in the silver moon light. 

What a sighting! 

Our picture of the day was won by Joana with a picture of the Southern Cross. Our guide over the next few months! The night skies are lit up with the moon that is just passed full and so only the really bright stars can be seen. Still its pretty impressive night sky. 

Today was baking day for Michael, there are trays of good looking muffinlike shapes, a tray with a chocolate cake that looks to die for and a sourdough bread in our cast iron pot is ready. All day we have been surrounded by the wonderful smells from the galley, even those off watch smelled the warm scent of melting chocolate and crispy bread. Delicious! Looking forward to their taste later today! 

All is well on board, Jet