The sun rising off TARA's bow was accompanied by a flurry of quiet activity. Flying fish in the distance, a bird resting on the rigging, and spotting a sailboat off the starboard bow were each the focal point of their individual moments. We've been motoring for 27 hours, since the wind died. TARA's engine is quiet, affords us a nice 7kt speed, ample charging for electronics, and plenty of hot water.
Captain Mark stirs below, double checking the log for position, speed, and direction. Looking for wind information, he decides we should sail! The crew scurries topside, securing lines on winches, while our little sea finch flitters about here and there. I take my place on a beanbag on the bow! It's perfect for a little quiet time to reflect and savor the moment, not to mention pretty darn comfortable!
Captain Mark calls for the staysail to be set, completing our full sail plan for the cutter rig. As we settle in on 5 kts of boat speed, with just barely enough wind, TARA sails along effortlessly. With the slow rise and fall of the bow, she graces the water on which she moves.
The crew anticipates making landfall -- 215 miles to Tortola! Soon the question is, "What time is it?" No one really cares, but the answer rings out from stem to stern, "It's noon and it's AWESOME!"
--- Crewmember Deb