10/12/11 - Tenacious

9/12/11-10/12/11
On Thursday, we set sail from La Palma bound for an anchorage off the island of Gomera. Once we arrived we dropped anchor in a fantastic bay surrounded by steep volcanic cliffs. In the evening we were presented with punch provided by the engineers to watch the sun set. Later a BBQ was had on deck with fun and frolics. Friday, after breakfast, all were required on deck to help with the assisted climb for the wheelies and others that had not climbed the mast on the first day in Tenerife. Two wheelchair users were hoisted into the rigging with the help of all crew. Some other with rather reduced mobility were assisted by Alex. 2nd mate, to climb the main mast, everyone appeared to be more than happy with their achievements. After that, a good selection of the crew jumped overboard (with permission from the Captain who also ventured over the side) for a swim in warm water. This was followed by lunch on deck and then we hauled anchor and berthed the ship at Vuelta on the west side of La Gomera. Most of the crew took the opportunity to spend a pleasant afternoon in this unspoilt town and an evening meal for those that could tear themselves away from Graham's excellent cooking. The next morning (Saturday) after a deferred happy hour have left Vuelta and presently en route back to Tenerife pushing through a north easterly wind
force 8. Exhilarating for some, not so much fun for others.