The fleet continue to make their way west to Saint Lucia with the Southern Wind 105GT No Rush less than 600 miles out and expected to cross the finish line in Rodney Bay in the early evening on the 6 December.
For some, its that time in the crossing where the best way to use up ripe bananas becomes a priority, with various banana bread and pancake recipes being tested. Thanksgiving and St Andrews Day have been celebrated with traditional dishes and a variety of fish caught - crew have been feasting on ceviche, sushi and fish tacos (as well of the odd tin of tuna for those less successful with the fishing line!). The crew of Sunreef 80 Mischievous were treated to a McChievous take away by chef Bella to celebrate reaching the halfway point - with burger, fries, nuggets, drink and even a happy meal toy puzzle!
Squalls have been a wide topic of conversation, with top tips being shared on the best way to set up radar to help detect and avoid them at night. The at-sea WhatsApp and SSB nets are pinging as skippers share their experiences, providing the location and conditions to be expected.
For Kevin and Geerte on Hanse 575 Chillalot, who are crossing with their two young children, a conservative sail plan has been adopted in anticipation of squalls and to allow them to catch up on sleep. Bella and Rene on Maholo, a Lagoon 42-2) have also reduced canvas, with the main down and only 50% of the jib out, they are still cruising along at 6-8kts.
The crew on Suzanna were excited to have a fly past from Sodebo Ultim 3 on their Jules Verne attempt yesterday morning, cruising past them at 37.3kts!
There have been frequent wildlife visits, whales joined Falmari as they celebrated reaching the halfway point, a brown booby has stopped for a rest on Mulan and flying fish have been found on many boats, with one even reaching the head on Snowmane! (Zoom in...)
The fleet continue to alter course to pass through the search area to look for the sailor lost overboard from Ocean Breeze. MRCC Norfolk continue to update search coordinates, shared with the fleet at-sea communications channels.