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It’s been a frustrating day. We have encountered a current that is ranges from 1.5 knots to better then 3 knots. The wind is coming from 140 to 180 (south east to south), which is the general direction that we want go. If it were just wind, we would have less problems, but the wind combined with the strong current keeps out tacking angle about 120 to 170 degrees depending on the current and its relative direction. That means when we are heading east (90 degrees) and then tack, the opposite wind angle would be 260 or due west. In short we are having a hell of time going south. Sometimes we are even going backwards when the winds are light. I have read nothing about this current of this strength, I wonder it this La Nina effect.

The weather is generally warm with scattered clouds. We even have the main cabin hatch open, which lets in much need cool air. There is no swell to speak of and the sailing is comfortable and easy. Except that we just have to work it hard as the wind shifts through out the day, tacking here taking a lift, getting heading, then tacking back. There have not been any squalls, but the night before and last night both Lowry and I watch lighting on the northern horizon. It was an eerie feeling. I briefly thought of the end of he world.  We were sailing out here and would arrive a world that had just destroyed itself.   Reading too much Science Fiction as a kid I guess.