Falmouth Outbound Day 1

Hi everyone,

We are currently in position 49 03N 006 24W, sailing at 3 knots on a course of 245M.  The wind is 8-10 knots from the south.  There's mid-level overcast cloud with the sun almost breaking through at times.  The air temperature is 10C and the water 12C.  We're getting 8 amps from the solar panels despite the cloud.

Passing the Lizard

We're amazed we haven't had to motor.  The winds have varied between 6 and 12 knots, and from SSW to ESE.  Pretty much in line with the GRIB forecasts.  We're impressed at Zen Again's performance given her cruising main is cut to the size of one reef point and her new yankee is smaller than the old.

Keeping the Log (and keeping warm)

The sunrise this morning was spectacular.  Blood red seeping through breaks in the cloud.  We have a photo but not yet on this machine.

We're deliberately keeping away from the many cargo ships running between Ushant and Finistere.  We spent last night dodging small groups of fishing vessels and cargo ships moving at up to 20 knots.  For some reason the AIS range was very low, vice its range yesterday afternoon and this morning.  An atmospheric ducting phenomenon perhaps.  It certainly made the night more interesting with old-fashioned Mk 1 eyeball identification of traffic.

We expect the light winds to persist for another day before a new easterly breeze arrives.  It won't be much stronger but it should be steadier.  And perhaps the cloud will start to clear.

Trust all's well where you are!