0134 UTC | 34° 10.16’N 120° 04.70’W
Sailing
In the wind shadow of SoCal we had a restful night with calm conditions ghosting through smooth seas. I think everyone slept well. Morning brought sea life: resting flocks of pelicans, the occasional unnamed jumping fish, and a small bird at the bow. We’re getting ourselves in position for spicy weather tonight once we round Cape Conception, the seas build and the breeze freshens. I think we are prepared already practiced placing one reef in the main. It will be an upwind sail into an acceleration zone along a formable coast with few bailout points, Morro Bay being one. The plan is to be quick about a second reef then dowse the AP jib with the staysail on deck at the ready. We are currently passing through the Channel Islands between Santa Rosa and Santa Cruz Island’s. The crew is really gelling with lots of smiles and laughter on deck. Delicious smells waft from the galley as Adam prepares a hearty meal. Monterey is in our sights!
- John M
John M.
View more passage logs
Death on the high seas
I’m not going to lie - I really miss my dog. As we’re just now approaching Cap Verde (two thirds of the way) I can’t help but think of all the wonderful things that happen on a trip like this; strangers become friends, terror turns into confidence, and ignorance into knowledge. It’s not for everyone. But if you do decide to cross some of most isolated spaces on the planet in a small boat, you’re definitely in for a mighty interesting ride. And next time I’ll bring my dog with me. 😊
Eleven Snippets from Adrienne
This list of little moments might just shed some light on all the other stuff happening out here as we make this massive journey together. The back aft deck takes on many roles, like a salon (Anton gave Naxo an award winning haircut), a butcher shop (Kif cleaned his first fish), a yoga studio, gym and a dance club (Manot is an excellent DJ - and Captain and Katelyn keeps us moving wither energy and enthusiasm). Culinary magic happens nightly in a tiny galley by three amazing chef - sailors. Big thoughts, life's questions, personal histories, paths taken and talk of family (pets too) are shared. I'm beyond grateful to be a part of this little community in the middle of the Atlantic.
The Wheel Keeps on Turning
Helming is basically steering the boat by hand. Helming is so completely unlike driving anything else. How each of us put all this information and sensation together to guide our hands and keep Adrienne going where we want to go - to stay the course as the saying goes - is as different as the individuals on this boat. Well there you have it helming as described by six people who approach the same basic task with highly varied perceptions, feelings, and even emotions.