The swell is bigger today, probably 5’ following waves with an 8 second period. Strong, but still comfortable, especially taking them on the starboard quarter. The bigger seas make me sleepy, though. Apparently, when you measure wave height, the rule of thumb is to take what you think it is and divide it by two.
Today should be our best mileage day yet. We’re running both engines backwards to charge the batteries and still making 6-7 knots SOG.
A monohull sailboat called Lady Five (@sailingladyfive on Instagram) has been constant company since we entered open ocean 4 days ago. She shows up on our AIS more than any other sailboat (we’re still occasionally seeing 1-3 at a time) and we’ve taken to hailing them every once in a while to say hi and see what kind of sails their flying. I’m not sure if they regard it this way, but we see it as a bit of a race. ;)
The nights are warm and the days are hot in the direct sun, but Nam Thanh’s bimini and the wind help keep us nice and cool. I’m pretty sure I’m not drinking enough water. It may just be my spoiled PNW pallet but I can’t stand the way the water tastes coming out of the water maker. It’s something reminiscent of soap and plastic. Blech. A lemon slice and sticking my Nalgene in the fridge for the morning changed the game completely. Hydration, here I come.
The clouds are numerous and puffy and bright white against a pale blue sky. It feels like Andy’s bedroom wallpaper come to life. I’m constantly amazed by the number of hues of blue that can be spotted in the ocean throughout the day.
Reading for short stretches. More flying fish, lots of seaweed floating past today, the occasional bird though I have no idea what kind (Lauren, I’m sure you would know). Everything on board is working as it should (knock on wood).
A slow day in all things other than our boat speed. And why shouldn’t it be?
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You know what I would say about the water issue … :)
Miss you so much