Sailing

22 December 2017

As expected we did not get the right wind to sail across Biscay so we went on engine. But this does not mean it’s boring! Regularly we see dolphins playing around our bow. Twice we saw the spout of a whale. And we see lots of sea birds like gannets, kittiwakes, black-backed gulls and (I think) a Storm petrel.
We also have classes on deck, where we explain everything there is to know about sailing. And if we have a clear sky at night, we spot stars and constellations.
One can feel we are getting more south, thermal underwear is not necessary anymore and hats, double coats make room for sweaters. Yesterday there were a few walking around in just a t-shirt so it is getting better!
It looks like today is going to be a great day again. The sun is shining, the wind has shifted to east-north-east and should increase a bit. We untied the topsails so we can set those first. Then we can switch off the engine, set more sails and set sail for Cape Finisterre.