Sail On, Sailors

We’re getting into a groove, sailing every other day or so to a new location. We are fair weather sailors, having learned our lesson after an early morning sail where we tried to beat the weather and didn’t. The swells were big, the waves were crashing and we were going straight into the wind. One child was sick and after two hours of rough going, during which the boom fell (it hadn’t been fully re-rigged) and we remembered our life rafts and other safety equipment were out for annual service, it was definitely time to head back to port. There is no point in testing the boat or mother nature when you have a choice.

Since that morning, we go only in calm weather, motoring along and putting up sails when possible. Our speed under power is about 8 knots and it’s generally 30-45 miles between anchorages. We spend our time under way working on the blog (Jess), catching up on emails or voyage planning (Russ), keeping the kids busy (Hannah), standing watch (Osman). Rosie likes to bake or play Barbies and Jordan builds 3D puzzles, crafts with cardboard, or sleeps. We like to arrive at our new destination by lunchtime so we can explore the town, buy fresh bread, go for a walk or swim and be ready for school.

There is familiarity in the process and novelty in each destination. After many false starts, it feels we’ve found our flow.