Yesterday we topped up fuel at the barren island of Baltra in the Galapagos, then set sail to the west and bound deep into the South Pacific Ocean. The gang sailed off the hook with aplomb. The Picton Castle crew had a grand view of these amazing islands as we sailed between them for the open sea.
After motoring all night, this morning at dawn we found a fine SE tradewind making up. Skies blue, seas modest, some frigate birds keeping station with us and a few flying fish to be seen. The 4 to 8 watch turned to with a will and got all sail on the ship set. Soon we were sailing along, under sail alone, on a good course, and making 5 knots. This made us all pretty happy, not the least of all Donald, a seagoing voyager if there ever was one.
We had noted earlier some rents in the very old fore t’gallant. it was from World Voyage 4. A soft old sail to be sure. Even some of the patches had patches. but still has some life so we will repair it. So the gang under Line and Dirk sent it down to get replaced with another old sail. While they were at it the bent on a brand new t’gallant on the main. All good sailorizing work.
Now we get down to business of a long sea passage in the South Pacific tradewinds. Nothing quite like it.