Status Update:
We are all making this happen and though we are exhausted from the relentless wind and big seas, we are in good spirits and the crew is working well together. Captain Bill and Tom remain tortured by sea sickness, but they are pulling through like champs. We had our first real injury today but Ray is going to be fine. He was launched from the windward side of the galley backwards and fell hitting his head and injuring his shoulder. He's taking the day off from watch duties to rest but he's not hurt seriously. Lots of blood from a scalp wound but we didn't have to stitch him up, thankfully. We've dubbed the galley the "Galley of Death". Whoa as I walk through the galley of death. :) I (Don) myself almost "pulled a Ray" too. When the boat rocks, you gotta roll with it.
We are trying to make our way east but tonight the winds aren't doing us any favors. We pushed eastward early anticipating this but didn't make it far enough. We may get stuck out here by the SE trades. Oh well. It may take several tacks to make our way.
The satellite tracker still isn't communicating. We think its because its being blocked by overhead solar panels. But we've not found another good place to mount it. The thing needs a place to which to tie a line. We can put it out on deck but there's really no way to tie it down.
We really are having a blast. What a great feeling to be out on the big blue sea in control of your own destiny and making things happen. I love sailing! As Ray said today with a big smile on his face, "There are just a few times in life like this. Isn't this a beautiful day."
We've had a few minor mechanical failures (like an overheating engine) but all in all, Solstice is performing well. She's a strong ship and sails true. Bill has really done a great job getting her ready. If we don't get the engine problem solved we may have to be towed into the harbor. We're keeping batteries charged by solar, wind, and a gen-set at night. Even without an engine, we're in good shape.
Though we aren't showing up on the tracker, we are at N31 02 W70 23. Heading about 156 degrees with smiles on our faces.
Capt. Bill, Tom, Don, and Ray