Doldrums-like conditions for VDH

Jean-Luc van den Heede feels the wear and tear on his sails

Day 41. Position at 1300: 53°23'S / 110°26'W
Wind 8 knots from S. Sea: slight.
Temperatures: day 11°C / night 7°C / sea 7°C
Distance covered in the last 24 h: 121 miles.
To the antemeridian 2,600 miles.
Lead over Monnet 5 days and 7 hours.

Hi there,

The repetitive sequences of going through a squall then being becalmed have only just finished. It was like being in the Doldrums, except the wind was always blowing from the WSW to the WNW, so head on, of course! During all that time, I kept up the solent and the mainsail, but I had to keep coming around from one side to the other, according to the most favourable tack. On the other hand, during the periods of calm, which were far too numerous, my mainsail swung from one side to the other, which didn't do it much good.

Apart from two little holes where it rests, when I take in a reef, the edging is now frayed. It doesn't matter much, but it could get worse with wear. I've also got a few places, where the external protective coating has peeled off. In short, my 3DL mainsail is the focus of my attention for the time being.

I think the cuben fibre from last year was more resistant to wear. Pity it's so expensive...If worst comes to worst, I have my old mainsail on board, but I don't think I'll be requiring it. For the moment, the foresails have stood up well to the conditions, which have been quite harsh in the fifties, which aren't always roaring.

See you tomorrow,

JL VDH

A day with Maria and Loeiz from Kerfouler's cuddly toy.