August 20

- Morning
Shipmates restless as promised wind has proven perversely illusive. At least foul current has wandered elsewhere, possibly permitting Beveridge Reef arrival at sunset in flat light. Otherwise will have a look at dodging calcified critters on entry with 3/4 moon, GPS waypoints and supreme navigational virtuosity. What could possibly go wrong? Crew admiration muted.

- Noon
SSE three knot zephyr has boomed up to ESE howler at seven and a half. Meticulous calculation shows speed over ground has leaped by .013 knots knocking 90 seconds off ETTD (estimated time to disas... destination). Crew unimpressed.

- Early Afternoon
Consummate leadership skill has thus far forestalled acrimonious confrontation with mutinous crew as arrival at shark infested reef nears. Opining that a quick, gory end is preferable to succumbing to dehydration after days of bobbing around in a life jacket has, however, been poorly received and largely unhelpful.

- Late Afternoon
South wind filled in to 11 knots reaffirming original decision to purchase sails. Increased boat speed is partially negated by return of adverse current. Unmollified hands remain in surly mood and bear watching.

- Dusk
Entry through pass and advancement across lagoon to opposite reef as accomplished in ever deepening nightfall just in advance of a squall was uneventful. Crew, awed by masterful helmsmanship, have become embarrassingly obsequious.

- Evening
Ships complement buoyant in rum infused afterglow of successful anchor set inside what would have been an atoll had there been any land nearby. Excitement runs high in anticipation of next leg, tomorrow, not early, maybe the day after, whatever, to Niue.

Jack