Bozuk Buku to Ciftlik. Turkey

29/7

Occassionally we post some sailing stuff, but in measured amounts because it can get a bit repetative. Today is an example of what sailors can face from time to time. We left Bozuk Baku in fairly light conditions. The weather forcast was issued:

RODOS SEA - WNW 3 0R 4 SOON 5 Seas slight.

This means winds from the West of North West, 10 to 15 knots soon reaching 20 knots. Otherwise perfect conditions forecast. Reports here issued in the Beaufort Wind State, unlike Australia where winds are generally reported in knots.

As we headed out,the sea state was already moderate and winds were gusting 25 knots. Furthermore there were standing waves in in isolated pockets due to small sections of counter currents set against the wind direction.

This leg was almost down wind for us. On Stella, we do not run off the breeze very well. We carry a genaker, which is like a spinaker without the pole. It is perfect for broad reaching but will not carry dead down wind, even so it was far too breezy to use this. The ideal solution would be to run down wind with twin poles, a jib out each side. We have no poles, so these are on our bucket list.

We elected to broad reach on a couple of down wind tacks to get to Ciftlik. That worked well. We ended up with 1 to 2m swells and 25kn+ breezes. We donned or life jackets and tethers. The latter are used to attach ourselves to lifelines if we need to get to the foredeck in marginal conditions.

At one point, we were reefing down and the jib sheet pulled through the leward block causing the jib and sheets to flog violently. The knot tied at the end of the sheet which would prevent this had undone itself. As we came back up into the breeze we were able to retrieve the sheet and sort it out. I guess we should always check these little things before sailing. Our fault...

We finally reached Ciftlik at 14:50 and backed onto a little quay where Mehmets restaurant was located. These little places are excellent because they offer free mooring, power, water and WIFI, but it is politic to eat at their restaurant. Given the cost of marina fees nowadays, you are still way in front.

In any case, back to the weather report. They are usually quite accurate, but can not always predict local conditions, especially near land where winds are often modified....so always expect the unexpected and have a back up plan before leaving...that's my two bobs worth..talk soon