Voyage Update

A quick note to fill you in on our progress:

We are anchored out in Mayaguana, the last island in the Bahamas, furthest South and East. It was a bit rough and uncomfortable getting here, but Gabrielle is a stout little vessel, and true.

Our weather guy sent us an assessment that making Culebra by Christmas would be impossible. We were devastated. When I emailed him back, he reminded me that his assessments and sailing strategies were based on my previous assertions that “we are fair weather sailors, and do not want to be uncomfortable.” He then said, “it’s not impossible to make Culebra before Christmas, but it will be uncomfortable.” He said the winter trade winds have established themselves early and vigorously, so getting East and South is more difficult.

We just concluded a crew meeting, discussed all our concerns, and made the decision: We are bound for Culebra early tomorrow (Wednesday) morning. We have full confidence in our vessel, and although we aren’t looking forward to the discomfort, we are up for it and looking forward to making port in Culebra on Sunday or Monday.

We will spend the rest of the day preparing to depart: taking on extra fuel and water, checking the rig and sails and safety equipment. After a good nights sleep, we will set off in the morning.

Wish us well, and Godspeed to Gabrielle!