Comocean has been progressing south/south west for the last 40 hours and is approaching the defined way poi t for entering the Gulf Stream Seth has been working with us on entry and exit points and the approach has left us, and the two vessels within eight miles of us, in a two knot on the nose current. Although the winds are predicted to move east today, we expect a rough ride as we have had a week of North winds. Against a North moving current is not enjoyable. We will just hope this predicted east wind yields some flatter water. Seth’s recommendation: motor sail fast. I think he is telling us to just get it over. Although we are bouncing, it’s tolerable and Comocean likes to run.
I always find it interesting how people talk about the seas. Our entry point is just off the shore of “Cape Fear”. A large sand bar stretches for miles off this point. It’s called, “Frying Pan Shoals”. John Hoffman suggests we are moving out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Speaking of frying pans…it ain’t happening. At 20 degrees heel the micro wave and oven (gimbaled) get all the action. Hunger is not an issue as everyone is being very cautious about meals. We expect Thursday and Friday to be calmer but will move along briskly to get below a front forming off Florida. We can then, perhaps, let our friend Hop Sing (john Hoffman) back into the kitchen.
We have been expecting to catch some fish. We had a false tuna and a lost hook. The buddy boats around us talk each morning about their Tuna catches. RATS
Once we get through the Gulf Stream, we expect winds to move from the south and will decide our entry point into the Bahamas. Either, Memory Rock (West End) or Whale Cay Channel (Marsh Harbor), is the discussed entry. Once we get behind the coral reefs, life on the water changes. We will welcome flat seas and beautiful turquoise sandy waters.
Tony, Norm and John Driscoll are at the helm and as a team recommended our moving quickly to our crossing course.