On setting off we used our boom to pole out the jib and we're making 4.5 knots in the right direction with the wind likely to increase, we were happy!
Our plan to sail wing & wing didn't materialise because we were doing ok with only the jib and the sea state made it difficult to work on deck. The forecasted wave interval and directions just translated into waves from all over the place and about every 5 mins or so 3 growlers (strong breaking waves) in quick succession would knock us off course. Due to the sea state we didn't use our auto pilot because from previous experience we knew it would not cope. We had Artemis well balanced but the growlers and the gusts made steering at the helm very difficult so we worked 2 hour shifts. The nights were much more difficult. On the bright side, we didn't need to use the engine, plenty of wind.
We sighted something other than ourselves only about once a day. A cruise liner, fishing boat, a yacht hoved to, dolphins and the highlight, migrating turtles.
Our fridge worked for about 4 days as our solar panel wasn't producing anything like what we get in a marina or at anchorage. We think the motion of the boat and because we were sailing south so the best of the sun was obscured by the sails were the culprits.
The half bottle of wine that we had been gifted by Phillipe an Imeda for 'New Year', we couldn't face so we had a kiss and cuddle instead!
Approaching Mindelo we furled in the jib and motored with the auto pilot to get Artemis ready for mooring. The channel between the islands which leads to the marina was extremely windy and on arrival we were directed to a berth. Miles was determined to reverse in due to Alison's dodgy knee. We tied up safe and sound after 6 days 3 1/2 hours at sea. 800 nm.
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