Land Ho! - Ireland at last... After over a week without sight of land, we have green hills and the fastnet rock in view. And not a moment too soon, as cabin fever was just beginning to set in among the voyage crew,and the permanent crew are showing signs of alcohol withdrawal (or nice cappuccino withdrawal - Sue)
All haste is now being made to Cobh, where warm showers, clean socks and fresh Guiness await all.
Sue MP
First sighting of Ireland in the afternoon and views of Fastnet rock. A sweepstake had been run at a pound per go. A line was drawn from Fastnet to Ouessant. The challenge was to ‘guestimate’ the time of the line crossing.
Excitement was visibly mounting as the line drew nearer. Finally, at 17:30 the long awaited news was announced by the mate, the line had been crossed. However, as with all major wins, the lucky person was not named immediately.
Breathe was baited until Chris was finally announced as the winner.
The plan was to anchor overnight of Cobh. Gale force southerly winds were expected and the captain was anxious to make a fast passage to ensure shelter for Tenacious and our crew. The weather deteriorated on Aft Ports watch from 20:00 to midnight with driving rain. Sails were handed with alacrity and a very bedraggled watch were glad to retire to hot chocolate and bunks. The ship finally anchored at approximately 2:00 on Thursday morning.
Crew were called at 7:30. Breakfast was closely followed by habour stowing of course and lower topsails. Arjun and Ed learnt the intricacies of tying a clew gasket. It had been hoped to 'go along side' in Cobh in the morning but wind and tide were against us. The possibility of doing so later in the day was constantly dangled in front of the voyage crew by the captain. Spirits remained high but shot even higher when it was announced that fresh water had been discovered and we could all shower again to our hearts content.
Aft Port watch