We lifted the anchor around 1530 on Tuesday 21/12 about an hour later than we would have liked. In the scheme of things being a little late when there is just over 2000 miles to run doesn't equate to much.
A steady stream of boats had been leaving the bay since mid morning and from time to time we would hear weather/condition reports from them. By the time it was our turn we had a pretty good handle on what it was like out there.
Armed with knowledge we put two reefs in the main, no headsail and out we went. It was fairly lively as the north east wind tends to funnel down between the islands of Sao Vicente and Santo Antao causing quite a chop for the first few miles but settling down as you round the bottom of Santo Antao.
Once clear of both islands we rolled out the jib and sailed in a fresh breeze skimming along at 7-9 knots. Just after the sun had set a beautiful full moon rose behind us turning night into day once more.
The wind started to lighten off around 10 pm and we motored for two hours till it came back in. We are now sailing on a beam reach in a lovely nor' easter of 15-20kts with the boat speed sitting on 9, 10 and 11's. The seas are around 1.5 -2 mts and the comfort factor is pretty good. Our radar tells us that there are a couple boats within a few miles of us one of whom we assume is "White Rose".
So the miles are clocking off under our keels and we are hoping for the good conditions to hang in there for a while longer.
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