Picture: Wind GRIB Files showing light winds from the SSE. "C" is at 34'N:72'W.
Author: Seth

I just received a call from Comocean and got to speak to my Dad and Norm. Despite a forecast for South winds at their position, they are experiencing SE winds which are preventing them from heading in any direction toward the BVIs. Instead they have two options: Cuba or Bermuda! Fortunately the winds are light and my suggestion to them was to motor into the winds to get out of this stalled high pressure system that will be sitting over them for the next three days. It's not until Wednesday that the wind direction is expected to change, so the fleet has to make a tough call. They can either motor into the wind and waves (which is uncomfortable), or sail slightly off course (adding time to their passage). You can see in the image below that some boats are motoring SE into the wind while others (including Comocean) have been sticking it out sailing. Unfortunately I think it is time to motor.

All else seems well on board. While I was speaking to my Dad they heard a large banging sound and he handed the phone off to Norm to investigate. Apparently the noise was from a flying fish that slammed into the Bimini! Better that than bolts falling off the mast! But Norm said they are all having fun and are enjoying being out there together. I just wish they had better winds...

At least they are not dealing with what is happening on Beckoning, the Catalina 47 that has turned back for Norfolk. Apparently they are having an issue with one of their crew (could be a family emergency or someone refusing to continue). Regardless, we hope all is okay on-board. At least they have some nice SE winds to get them home!

Seth