After completing formalities in the marina (Immigration and large marina bill), and finishing the chores to make the boat ready to go to sea, we left the dock at 1045. It was a nice breezy day with whitecaps in the bay. Gradually, the fleet of 30 or so boats raised sails and positioned for the 1200 start...
Sapphire was among the first boats across the line and soon there was just one boat ahead as we reached down the coast. We popped our passion red MPS and within 15 mins were leading. An exciting and satisfying start.
We turned west for Panama, put out the fishing line and charged along at up to 12 kts in 25 kts. We favored speed over position and ended up some 20 miles north of the rhumb line, but boy it was fun!
At dusk we took down the big sail and decided safety the first night out was the prudent thing to do. And so, with genoa and main keeping boat speed above 8 kts, and under a gloriously bright full moon, we all enjoyed a tranquil first night at sea.