Magnificent

19 April 2014

Update by Mike:
“Friday 18th April. Good Friday – and it really is. We have been sailing away from Horta now for for more than three days, the last two in fantastic conditions, good winds and sun; what more could we ask for. What’s more, the ‘Oosterschelde’ seems to be enjoying it, she is living up to her fine reputation. It is easy to see already why so many people come back and sail on her time and again. Certainly the main crew show their love of time on board going about their duties with a smile and a real bounce in their step.
We have seen whales, thought to be Minke whales, and dolphins swam in our bow wake for a while, all to quick for me so I hope they will visit us again so that I can get some photes to show.
Sailing with an almost full set of sails at speeds in the region of 6 to 10 knots demonstrates all that’s magnificent of the ‘Oosterschelde’. Being at the helm under sail is special along with its feeling of responsibility. There is a lot to learn as sailing a tall ship is very different to the small craft I am used to, but under the crew’s instructions I hope to come back wiser (and fitter).
We are getting used to the watch system and the life on board, even starting to manage walking around with the ships motion without feeling like a drunk old man.
Hope this finds all well.”