Aft Port here. Firstly greetings to Liam and to let you know that Grandad has seen his shark and sends you his love. Such a lot seems to have happened since our last blog on 20th. Monday 21st started with the Middle watch and JLS (Alan) announcing it was his birthday, this was celebrated with mini eggs all round. Waves were building and the main deck was closed because of waves coming across so Knittting Jenny and Jodie spent the afternoon body surfing below deck in a Force 10 and 25 degree list. Permanent crew aloft to stow the main course and Ronan was descending from the rigging when Alex shouted look out Ronan who exclaimed "Oh bee Jaysus" before he was drenched by one of the 6 metre waves. Tuesday 22nd saw us back on watch at 4.00 a.m.
Weather deteriorated to 45 - 50 knot winds and 7 metre waves. We were then called into the chartroom and autopilot was engaged. The wind went to phenominal estimated 60 - 70 knots. Ship rolled, various items were thrown around and lost over the side including the spuds and onions. But the bananas survived. Since then the weather has improved to the extent that Ally was at last able to bake JLS's birthday cakes which consisted of a 66 bun salute. Alana did a message in a bottle. Today Barbara introduced us to delights of Horta and then proceeded to give us a talk on her life and career at sea.This was enjoyed by all. We hope to be in Horta tomorrow. Now on watch Tony at the helm having relieved Rob ( ace night vessel spotter),Captain Jack is still whipping us in, Janet is peeking over the compasses assisting Darren and Jenny is breathing over my shoulder, Ken is on mess duty and I'm signing off. Alan (JLS) Aft Port.