Hot Stuff - port watch blog

From the port watch crew: Bella, Kat, Naomi and Emily.

The rain has been taunting is on the horizon for days and finally during the 2am to 6am shift last night we experienced our first squall.

The wind picked up and jackets went on, but with hoods kept down to hear instructions, and also appreciate the fresh water shower! Just as we were about to furl away some headsail a flying fish thought it would get in on the action. He was quickly returned to the sea, unfortunately along with one of the tea towels adorning the cockpit, with Lizzy letting Bella know that now wasn't the time to be scared of a fish

Rain water felt soft against the skin and washed off the salt, but we are hoping for a little more today! We are currently being buffeted by an enormous swell, rocking the boat from side to side. A hint of queasiness has returned and new bruises from the boat pitching so much are starting to occur. We don't mind too much though as the wind has finally picked up and we are making the most out of it while we can. We had just shaken out a reef and are pleased our speed is picking up, but we suddenly feel very small in a forty ft boat in a blue valley surrounded by sea. We are excited to be seeing more seaweed and this is a sign that we are nearing the land, the thought of mojitos and jerk chicken are powering us on!