Race 11 - Day 26
Crew Diary - Race 11, Day 26
25 May

Greetings from Visit Sanya, China. A few nights ago we witnessed a moon eclipse caused by the shadow of the earth followed by a red moon. Dolphins come to visit the boat most mornings with a pod exceeding more than 100 one morning showing off and giving the crew a spectacular display of their acrobatic skills. Other wildlife spotted have been flying fish, birds took up residence on our bowsprit (boobys), a mantaray and turtles.

Unfortunately, we have managed to find many wind holes which is frustrating, drifting is very testing and one of the most trying conditions for the crew to deal with, the sails sag unnaturally, helming becomes difficult as the boat lurches in the light breezes and little or no progress is made hour after hour. Our race has been shaped and defined by these blasted wind holes. Current conditions are tropical storms with heavy rain and lightning.

Two nights ago we went to the aid of Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam, who were rendered disabled by a lightning strike. We towed them through the night, the next morning they managed to start their engine and are now making their own way to Panama.

Our engine is now on as we make our way to Panama.

Best wishes from all the crew aboard Visit Sanya, China.