We have had some fantastic sailing over the last couple of days, racing along in close company with the rest of the fleet. Getting the sail changes correct has been so important. Last night we dropped out Code 3 (smallest spinnaker) that we had been flying all day just before we sailed into a big thunderstorm. It was just as the sun was setting and on the horizon, we could see a waterspout form- thankfully nowhere near us. The heavens opened and down came a deluge of rain as the wind increased from 15 to 50kt. Everyone enjoyed the freshwater shower and after about an hour it had passed us by, returning us to some more relaxed conditions.
As I type this, we have just crossed 8 degrees south. This is significant as we now can turn on our engine if the wind shuts down and motor sail the next 4 degrees of latitude. If we decide to take this option, then we can take no less than 36hours to cover the distance. Looking at the forecast it's unlikely we will be able to sail all the way in less than 36hours anyway. For now, should the wind hold, we are still sailing as its cooler below decks.
Dan, Laura and the UNICEF Team