The ARC boats are now settling in to life at sea, and early mal de mer is subsiding as bodies adjust to the rolling motion. In general, the cruising boats are seeing much lighter winds and lower wave heights, but there are night time squalls (typical of tradewind sailing) and it hasn't really hotted-up yet. The photo shows the Heartbeat IV (GBR) crew in unseasonable wet weather gear!
Some boats have tried fishing, but at this early stage, most are enjoying their fresh stores. The rolling has caught-out many chefs and diners, with reports of smashing plates and food lost down the back of the cooker. Stick to plastic dog bowls!
Bowman Topo on Berenice (ITA) found out by email that he was going to be a Dad - so a festive atmosphere onboard the big Swan. On a northerly course, Berenice is experiencing stronger winds than the cruisers, which are mainly heading south, and they have found steering so demanding that the kit is dropped at night and the boat wings along with a reef. Top speed has been over 20 knots - impressive!
The Dutch boats, including family boat Ostrea (NED) were visited by Zwarte Piet (Black Pete), Saint Nicholas' helper, who left sweets for all the kids. How he got to the boat so far out in the Atlantic was a source of discussion for the children, with jet skis, suba and surfing being popular suggestions.