As we get closer to the Azores the weather is getting much colder with few left on deck wearing shorts, however the odd BM can be seen fighting the elements in T-shirt and thongs! Today was a day of much goings on. All sails were set throughout the morning and we were making a nice speed of 6 knots with the wind coming from the south. At about 14.00 however we went through a squall which made us heel about 20 degrees to starboard, causing me to almost fall out of my bunk! Many of the crew were on deck helping to brace the yards and hand the T'Gallant and Upper Topsails, even Pete the Chief Eng and I were out pulling on string. The swell of the sea was brushing water onto our decks making the working conditions a little slippy, but fun! Even though we were all on deck in 30-40 knot winds getting drenched, as it also started pouring with rain, there was only smiles to be seen and laughter to be heard through the intermittent sounds of deck officers telling us what ropes to pull and slack. When we had enough of the sails handed we were stood down, leaving the ship in the hands of the aft port watch. Later in the day the wind did the dirty and fell light so our speed deteriorated to a measly 3 knots and Captain Barbara decided it was time for the engines. The evening was filled with entertainment by our bosun, Alex.
He
had prepared a table quiz, all watches participated along with a team from the permanent crew. The winners being the BM's cadet's and Captain Barbara, in other words the permanent crew. I am assured it was not a fix! Spirits are high onboard, talk and thoughts of the Azores are becoming more and more frequent.
Ronan, Medical Purser