Here at midday, the Picton Castle is bowling along towards a spot about 80 miles south of Madagascar where we will fall off and turn more westerly to cross the Mozambique Channel to make the coast of South Africa near the city of Durban. From there if all goes well we pick up the Agulhas […]
The crew were close at hand on standby last night, anticipating sail handling under the dark, cloudy sky with groups of stars peering through, as the moon beamed through the cumulonimbus clouds with a gorgeous orange/yellow colour. This morning has come in overcast and we had slight periods of rain, which stopped the sailmakers’ work
Our first day back at sea after nearly two weeks in port – a surprise extended stay on the French island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. A gorgeous landmass that allowed us to explore its mountains, traverse its volcanos and devour delicious French cheeses, meats, and breads. As we steadily head southwest out of
After a very pleasant stay in La Reunion, a French Island east of Madagascar in this South Indian Ocean, the Picton Castle and her adventurous crew are back at sea. After days and days of sunny dry weather, we had a few days of rain and squalls while in port, these being the trailings of
The Picton Castle is alongside in the fine protected basin, part of the harbour of the commercial port near St Denis, Reunion Island in the western south Indian Ocean. We had a fine five day passage from Rodrigues. The entrance to the basin is a tight hairpin turn and then a channel about 60 feet
How lucky we are to have a Sunday at Sea during our four-day passage from Rodrigues to Reunion! Sundays are sacred for sailors, a day to catch up on personal projects, reading, as well as sleep. With all ship’s work ceased, the ship’s decks have a pleasant calm washed over them. This morning’s breakfast was
As we steadily sail along today between 5 – 6 knots, crew members are taking advantage of the lovely sunny weather with the perfect sea breeze whisking through our rigging and stays, cooling our sun-warmed faces. This morning a few work tasks were completed before our half day off work this Saturday afternoon could commence.
First day back out to sea. It always feels good to be back to our regular schedule. Away from the hustle and bustle of port, back out in the open ocean air. Ship’s work resumed as usual. Rhyanne, of South Carolina, was given the task of touching up our ship’s emblem; a castle turret with
Rodrigues was delightfully relaxing port. After a busy yet amazing stay in Bali and a wonderful 30 day ocean passage, a sleepy French speaking Mauritius island was just the best. Very friendly people, easy town to stroll around in. Popping in and out of shops or relaxing beach side as the sun was setting, enjoying
The stars aligned for us, we’ve been granted another Sunday at Sea! The swells rise 2-3 meters on our stern as we head North by West. Being that we’re 60 nautical miles off the coast of Rodrigues, we sail along at 4 knots in the home stretch. Intending on arriving at the small island that’s
