Day 1
Friday, May 3, 2024
What a first 24 hours run for FALKEN and her crew! We can see the skyline of Miami as I write this, which means that, with the help of the Gulf Stream, FALKEN has sailed over 214 nm upwind in 24 hours—pretty impressive! Last night was a tough one as we found ourselves battling with a sea state produced from wind against the current. It was choppy, windy, and very uncomfortable, but FALKEN and her crew managed to punch through it like champs.
Today started with more of the same, but the wind has been calming down, and now we find ourselves with a beautiful day, sailing along at 10-11 knots as everyone starts to get their sea legs. The weather is looking favorable for us, as it should start veering to the south between tonight and tomorrow, meaning we will be able to ease the sails, go quicker, and be even more comfortable.
Weather-wise, it looks like we're going to have to take the long route around pretty settled high pressure, but the weather router is indicating a pretty epic sail!
- Alex
laline96@gmail.com
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Shooting Stars & Turtle Logs
Day three out of Ketchikan and FALKEN is running wing on wing down the outside of Vancouver Island. The temptation is to lie back in the cockpit and spend the night watching for shooting stars, but a diligent watch is always the first priority. So we keep a sharp eye out while the shooting stars keep us company through the night. The wildlife keeps coming: humpback and minke whales, five mola molas, dolphins, and a black-footed albatross. We are all feeling lucky for such conditions!
Pot dodging and whale watching
Duncan got us up to eleven knots at one point! The Ferriers also logged our first Orca sighting on their 3am-6am watch! This morning is a gift as the temps are just right and we finally have some blue sky and plenty of sunshine. It was a glorious few hours sailing before it inevitably died as forecast. I live in hope that by sunset tonight we’ll be back sailing as we emerge out of the lee of the island and the wind will be more westerly which lends itself to a better sailing angle.
We are off!
After two days of introductions, safety briefings and boat procedures we have departed Ketchikan. We are currently making a whopping 3.3 knots as there is very little wind in Nichols Passage. Adam fed us well last night with a delicious shrimp curry and Duncan was the winner of a sporty game of the card version Monopoly. With the scenic views and light wind it's quite peaceful out here.