03 March 2008

In the Leewards!

March 3, 2008

We made it!

It was a hard slog to windward from Virgin Gorda, but we made it to Saba. We left with a forecast of ENE winds around 15 knots, with 4-6 foot seas but ended up with 25+ knots with 6-10 foot seas. It was pretty wet and bumpy! For the first time, we sailed with three reefs in the main. We completed the 80 mile passage in 25 hours time with a couple of tacks to get back onto our rhumbline. In all we probably sailed more like 110 miles.

We were tired when we got to Saba, but it was worth it. The island is spectacular, with precipitous mountains and hills, picturesque villages and friendly people. We hiked up to the top of the island (about 3000 feet above sea level and a 1700 vertical feet hike from the village). When we get a better internet connection we'll post some pictures.

We're in Statia (St. Eustatius) now, and aim to be in Antigua on Friday. The winds are forecast to be ENE around 20 knots so we should have an envigorating time getting there.

More later....

7 comments:

S.V. Bristol Rose said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
S.V. Bristol Rose said...

Congratulations, long way from Rock Creek.

Anonymous said...

Saba looks awesome on Google earth! There is an airstrip there as well?

Anonymous said...

Antigua looks big

Conchscooter said...

Wait for weather. Don't do it once and regret it for a long time. Patience pays.

rod miller said...

CONGRADULATIONS, YOU GUYS ARE GREAT SAILERS KEEP IT UP AND BE SAFE AND WISE LOVE DAD

Anonymous said...

Congrats guys! Way to show them testy waters who's boss. Sorry about Kit Kat! Maybe she should be on a strict lobster-only diet?