Perfect conditions prevail on this leg from the tiny island of St Helena to the even tinier island of Ascension. Calm, consistent winds from the SE of about 10 knots push Shearwater gently from behind in seas of 1-2 feet. Brillant blue skies with a puff of cloud here and there. Strong sun keeps the batteries topped off via the 8 solar panels above the cabin top. Wind Generators whirr, non stop. As we make our way northwest, the memories of sailing the S. African coast, with its treachery lurking around every corner, recede - what an exquisite change.

The Royal Felines sit below decks well-cared for by Lyn, the Royal Caretaker.

Averaging about 100 miles every 24 hours, we expect landfall in 5 days.