Jackster En Route Tahiti

June 14

Boat began day proceeding southwest toward Papeete at very humble velocity in promised modest wind. Meandering direction of this baby's breath, between east and north, has been mischievous. Flew, doused, jibed and poled out the drifter enough as to get almost good at it. Would trade some gentleness of sea for a touch more consistent air which eventually abated to three knots true. Heaving to would not significantly decrease speed over ground in one knot following current. Speed through water became insufficient to maintain steerage. Cranked diesel eater.

At 1900, after motoring for a few hours, wind soared to eight knots on the beam. Quickly flew all working sail, shut down Westerbeke and watched a decrease to six knots. It portends a long night.

General strike in Tahiti has shut down airport and other services. Haven't heard reason, but suspect government reduction of bread subsidy by a centime or making it legal to work more than 15 hours a week (slight embellishment). Short duration return to US for visit and boat parts retrieval in jeopardy. Hardship of dallying in Papeete will be endurable with availability of wine, cheese and pan du chocolate.

Jack