Rhumb - Day 18 - Decisions, Decisions!!

As we approach St Lucia, the course we set becomes somewhat more critical than over the past few days. Looking at wind patterns etc. we were left in a quandary as to whether we continue with a little north in our track, or whether to gybe to put in a bit more south.

As it happened we stayed on a 295 degree course for the afternoon and overnight and gybed this morning onto a 265 heading. Hopefully, particularly for Crusher Whitelock, this will be our last. Not his favourite part of the voyage as he readily admits, as he quite often comments in his own inimitable way 'what's the point'. Fortunately, he does endure these events with a reasonable level of optimism, which is just as well, as otherwise we would be well on our way to South Georgia by now. I have to register my sincere apologies here, as I did become a little ratty with him on a gybe yesterday - all is cool now, as he did share some of his Crunchy Nut Flakes with me this morning.

Unfortunately, skippers fishing exploits took a bit of a tumble today too, as his lure and sinker were consigned to the depths of the ocean. Either a big bite from something or perhaps it was tied on with Sammy the snake. So, apart from 5 little flying fish which landed on deck, we have been wholly unsuccessful in landing anything.

The weather remains wonderful, as does the ocean. Lots of blue all around and plenty of good wind in the 20's to push us on. The night sky has also been quite spectacular as there is no moon at the moment - we are all awestruck when it's our turn for a night watch. I am sure it will be one of the abiding memories of this passage.

One more log to come as we make our final approach. Currently, we have about 165 nm to run. Where did all the others go?!!

Rhumb over - N14.48 W58.25