We left La Palma at 14.00 hrs, with the wind right on the nose, not suitable for sailing forwards! Motored until 18.30 hrs, then braced to port and set lower topsails. The wind increased to 25knts and we sailed not quite in the direction we wanted, not the fault of the helmsman. During middle watch (12-4 am) we had frequent wet squalls but at least the wind went westerly and we were on course for our next stop.
Some of the watch have been learning the deaf-blind manual alphabet and been practicing with one of our watch members. Our watch leader got a vowel wrong and is now called Boll!
Arrived in El Hierro late morning, a very small island and the most southerly. Exploration began.
Bill, David, Stuart, Harry, Susannah, Pat, Mark, Graham, Chris, Nancy
Aft Port watch
DAY 6. We arrived late morning at El Hierro which at sea level appeared to be bleak, with a few scattered houses around the harbour. The brown cliffs of lava flow were sparsely covered by succulents. The sun shone between the clouds and people headed off for the nearest town or walks around the harbour. The landscape was deceiving and with the benefit of a guidebook this enchanting island is ready for exploring. Because of its isolation El Hierro retains a romantic wildness with wild terrain and pine forests which readily compensate for the lack of sandy beaches. Many of the crew booked meals at the local restaurant beside the harbour, receiving personal attention and a wonderful meal. Some intrepid explorers ventured further afield to a restaurant designed by Cesar Manrique- absolutely fabulous. Harbour watch ensured that all the revellers made it back up the gangplank.
Denise and Barbara
Forward Starboard Watch