I have just come down below after 4 hours on watch in what can only be described as full fire hose conditions.
All four guys on deck wearing full face visor helmets to provide protection from the constant barrage of water coming across the deck in20-25 knots. Safety is paramount in these conditions and everyone is harnessed and clipped on.
Mainsheet trimmer in particular is on a short tether in front of the helmsman to keep good communication but to prevent damage to ribs and other body parts in the event of a wave washing him against the steering pedestal.
The funny thing is the wind speed is only 18- 20 knots and on most boats blast reaching in these conditions would be quite pleasant, but for us it is a constant struggle staying balanced and simply remaining on our feet.
The last few hours have seen our boat speed averaging a shade over 22 knots, which is pretty fast but still well short of the 25 knot average required to break the monohull 24 hour record.
Port tack is our theme at the moment. We have been on port tack for over 3000 miles and look set to stay on port tack for another 2000 miles. This could actually be a new record for the most time on one tack. I think our physio in Cape Town will be intrigued by the lopsided nature of our aches and pains.
Cape Town is only a week away and thoughts are already turning to cold beer and a warm burger and of course friends and loved ones.
