Biscay

14 January 2016

We left Falmouth as soon as the wind turned northwest, it was still very windy but it was the THE moment. The first night it kept blowing, but we made good speed. In the morning it was still about 7 Bft., but the barometer was increasing so it could not take long. Despite the strong wind the trainees were spotting sea birds and dolphins. Slowly the wind decreased and turned southwest. A few hours later the wind was completely gone and then returned from the northwest force 4-5 Bft. Last night it was great: a starry sky, 7-9 knots speed we were all enjoying ourselves. This morning the wind shifted and we could use our secret weapon: the course. Unfortunately the wind decreased again and due to the waves the ship is swinging so much, the gaffs are starting to bang. To avoid damage to the sails we took down the main sail. As soon as we can we will set it again. We have about 75 miles to go before we reach Cape Finisterre. After Finisterre we will stay close to shore hoping to find better wind. We have to see and find out.