Our decision not to head as far south as originally intended (and usually recommended) has come back to bite us. The wind is light or non existent and if it does appear it is usually attached to a strong local current in the opposite direction - very frustrating. As a result we have been motoring way too much as we do not want to miss anything of our allotted time in the Galapagos. Going by the SSB net we are not he only ones and can only hope there is a plentiful supply of the (very expensive) diesel when we get there.

Hoping to arrive tomorrow evening, but it may be the morning of the 16th, all being well.

We have also acquired a stowaway, some form of gull who landed on our deck 3 days ago. We made the mistake of giving him some bread and water, with which he had a snack, drink and bath. In return he demonstrated how completely at home he felt and re- decorated the decks in his own special way. I don't think any further explanation need be given on why he has been nicknamed Poopy Doo. He flew off yesterday morning but has just re-appeared this evening (14th). We are pretty certain it is the same bird as he went straight to the (now dry) water bowl and stood in it giving us an expression that can only be described as hurt with a dash of hopefulness. He is also pecking around where the bread once was so I think one of us will crack soon. For once we will be actively seeking out squalls in the hopes of counteracting the aftermath of a gull diet.

Must get on and prepare for another night at sea. It will be a bit of a relief to be in the cool night air as the day was hot and sticky with so little wind. We should be crossing the Equator in the wee hours, but doubt Mr Neptune is going to get a libation - he is not our most popular deity at the moment.