Aloha All,

Thought I'd give an interim update on our situation:

We are fairly certain that we've isolated the issue to be a failed autopilot. The autopilot (course computer) supplies electrical power to and shares data with the remaining instruments on the grid. A corrupt course computer can take down the autopilot controller and the wind/depth/speed instruments as well as any other components of the navigation system.

Ordered a new autopilot system though West Marine in Honolulu. The parts just arrived from the manufacturer via UPS a short time ago. This is the fastest I've ever seen this happen. All thanks go to Jan @ West Marine Honolulu. She got my order over the phone only last Thursday. That girl has some serious rapport with their suppliers. I owe you big time Ms. Jan!

Now it's up to us to get autopilot shipped to Papeete as quickly as possible. My visa is expiring in another week and I'm told that the officials here take a pretty dim view of violators. Jail, heavy fines, deportation, seizing of vessel, that kind of thing.

Keep your fingers crossed. I will for sure. I'm way too pretty for prison!

Everyone take care and stay well. All our love.

mark
rob
zane