Living in a Box
I’m approaching my personal record for days at sea of six days, set on Race 1, but feel so much better than last time. Sure, the sailing is easier but there are other things too; the crew has been tempered by that experience and is more durable; the work done on the boat in Portimao to make living on it easier is paying off, little hacks that make it more comfortable.
We’re currently off the coast of West Sahara and making good pace in the middle of the pack, within striking distance of the leaders and with a long way to go to Punta del Este. We’ve had a few sailing issues which have cost us time, distance and energy, but are not alone in that respect. Morale is good and there is remarkably little friction between individuals, surprising given some of the strong characters on board. The crew take their lead from Skipper Ian, the zen master, and AQP Mike, AKA Magic. Their positivity infuses everything and makes us all want to give our best.
Two of my main worries before boarding were boredom and food. On the latter, I’ve been amazed at the thought and effort that has gone into the menu and look forward to every meal. Chapeau to Angie, she can add ace Victualler to her repertoire of skills, including Duracell Powered Dancing Queen. On the former, the night watches do drag and you know you are reaching the limits of your imagination when you’re trying to fit crew members to names of sailing implements; it was easy and uncontroversial to identify the Cheeky Foreguy and Sneaker Tweaker in the group; Bilge Pump and Grey Tank might be more divisive, but I’ve got some ideas! I’ve also managed to fill some time by honing my Backgammon skills, with a win/loss record of Lots to One, although admittedly against limited opposition. Nothing like a bit of needle to raise the game!