Yeehaaaa. The final ocean crossing of our circumnavigation has begun. In some ways, I cannot remember what I used to do with my time before we crossed oceans on a Clipper 70 most days, in other moments, it feels like training our team in Gosport was only a few months ago; a strange paradox of time spent at sea.
To come out of Washington, DC with flares lit, fireworks, and an abundance of happy people waving us off was immensely special and Events DC has been an incredible host. We are now looking at around 3,500nm of sailing before entering the beautiful Sound of Kerrera and setting our sights on McCaig’s Tower looking over Oban. This race should feel momentous, but right now we are focused on keeping with the pack amidst some shifty winds, and it will certainly be a hard-fought battle across the North Atlantic, particularly with four jokers and some close leaderboard positions in play.
Our team has gelled well, coping with many gybes and hoists straight away this morning. With some people onboard on their first ocean crossing on UNICEF, and others their last, there are plenty of helping hands to keep the boat in good order, and some new legger energy is always appreciated.
Stay tuned for what will be one spicy, exciting, and pretty high-pressure final ocean crossing for our Clipper 2023-24 Race fleet.
Love to those at home, and our great hosts in DC.
Laura, Dan, and the team