Race 3 - Day 10
Crew Diary - Race 3 Day 10: Cape Town to Fremantle
10 November
Life on board GREAT Britain continues to bounce along. A little (very little) less bouncy at the moment as the seas have moderated a bit but we are still heeled over at a very uncomfortable angle. We are still pointed at the wind but we are not being thrown around quite as much as we have been. A few days ago, I attempted to do some repairs but had to abandon some as it was absolutely impossible due to the extreme angle and the constant pounding.
One thing that hasn't changed is the cold. It is bitterly cold, especially at night. For someone from North Queensland, Australia this is not pleasant. The only thing that sustains me is the fact that Iain, who comes from Scotland, seems to be feeling it even more than me. I'm not sure what the temperature is, but with the cold wind blowing, the chill factor freezes one to the bone. The only mitigating factor is there is no rain at the moment. Much to the amusement of some on board I have taken to wearing a sleeveless jumper my Mum knitted me in the 70's, it may cause a few laughs but is now an essential part of my kit.
As I stand here in the galley (mother watch for me today) Pip, Jonathan, Johannes, Tim and John Milne are all sheltering in the galley area trying to warm up before going back on deck to give others a chance to come down and warm up.
We are making very slow progress towards Fremantle and are looking at a delayed arrival unless something changes shortly to allow us to sail faster. We are yet to experience the 'sleigh ride' of riding down huge rolling waves with the wind behind us and kite flying as the southern ocean is usually depicted. The huge waves might not be too sorely missed by some but the wind from behind would be greeted with much joy by all. Unfortunately it does not appear that much is going to change for the next few days at least. Andy's somewhat hesitant decision to head south a few days ago has put us into a much better situation then some, so whilst our path is not all peaches and cream, others would seem to have it much worse.
We have seen various types of wildlife since leaving Liverpool, all amazing, but for me the albatross is the one I never tire of. Seeing this large, magnificent bird glide around the boat for hours on end, hardly ever flapping a wing, is truly a sight to behold.
To Halina, Paul and others that will be in Fremantle for our stopover, I can't wait to get there and see you again. Hope we are not too delayed.
As condensation drips onto me and the laptop I'll finish off and head for my bunk. Bye for now from all on GREAT Britain.
Ray Gibson