Sunday, Aug 19, 7:15 PM PDT Lat 47d 26m N, Lon 133d 56m W. Course 055d mag, Speed 6.9 kts
As of midnight last night I was just about ready to start motoring again. The wind had dropped, and we were barely ghosting along. But, as usually happens, things changed. The wind picked up and started blowing from a good direction, and we were sailing towards the Strait.
We’ve been keeping in touch with Kotuku, a Pac Cup boat that left Kaneohe the same day as us (perhaps a little earlier, I need to check). They are heading for Seattle, and we have been fairly close neighbors for most of the passage. Last night we saw their tricolor, and had a nice chat via the VHF radio, and as the sun rose we could see their sails a few miles off. At this point I’m not sure where they are, but we will exchange position reports during the evening SSB net. It’s been interesting to discuss our strategies as we work our way through the changing winds.
Today has been overcast and cool, with some minor squalls. VALIS has been sailing well, and the small swells make for a pretty comfortable ride. For lunch Rich surprised us with a tortilla soup that was a great antidote to the cool temperature. Every night we dress a little warmer, and are pulling out the sleeping bags and additional blankets.
A Friday Harbor arrival some time Wednesday (Aug 22) is still looking likely.
Best wishes, Paul / VALIS