Jurassic Park Island!
0146 UTC | 05 33.231’N 087 02.516’W
Chatham Bay, Isla Del Coco
I am writing this as we sit on a mooring buoy in an idyllic bay in the middle of the ocean. Roughly 5 hours ago we arrived at Isla del Coco and promptly jumped in the allegedly shark-infested water for a quick dip. Everyone will be pleased to know we were very sensible and sent Nic in as a guinea pig before committing the whole crew — even better news is that every crew member still has all their fingers and toes. In fact, no sharks have been sighted yet, but I am sure that will not be the case for much longer!
It is beautiful here. Jacques Cousteau may have been onto something. The only slight complaint we have is we would like it to be less rolly, if possible! Lee cloths may need to be up tonight, but I think everyone is looking forward to a full night’s sleep.
We haven’t had contact with the rangers yet, despite multiple radio calls. However, a friendly dive boat swung by and offered us internet for one phone, some stickers, and maybe an opportunity to dive here. Regardless, where they dive is mere meters from our boat, so some good snorkelling is definitely on the cards. The diver, Roberto, used to be a park ranger on the island for 9 years, so we’ll be taking him up on his offer to help with anything!
Hopefully the rangers pay us a visit in the morning and we can get to some real exploration. In the meantime, we’re having a lovely time star-gazing and enjoying our moonlit view of the island (see pic!).
// Mary
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Passages and Purposes
As of today, Falken has taken us over 1800nm across the North Pacific. We’ve learned about water-makers, starter motors, furling, taking in and letting out reefs, easing and grinding, weather and wind, helming by course and by wind angles, and the difference between rest and sleep. For now, the latest challenge is to stay in the moment. The memories we’ve made here are priceless, even if we only connected for a few moments on our various paths in this world. So few people get this opportunity to “go dark” and live simply for a moment.
Baptism Off Ka’ena Point
For the ancient Hawaiians, O’ahu was the gathering place. On day one of Falcon’s passage to British Columbia, we were to pass this headland. In short order, the winds built to well over 30 knots on the beam. Below deck I took a seat on the low side and became drenched in sweat. I had finally rounded Ka’ena point.
Turning the corner
Yesterday found Falken on a Northward course, still heeled to port, climbing and falling over waves. Sunrise this morning found Falken in an entirely different condition, one familiar to her, but not yet to the current crew. And then a truly magic moment, a pod of dolphins at least fifty members strong came to dance on Falken’s bow wave. We are now joyfully headed northeast, on course toward our eventual destination of Prince Rupert. Falken has turned a corner.