Captain’s Log – Mon 3/31/25
Departed Port Lucaya at 7:20am, sailed 54.4nm around West End of Grand Bahama and anchored just about 5:00 off of a tiny island on the Bahama Bank. We left Lucaya under full sail, making over 8kts downwind with a 15-20kt S breeze. We had 3’ seas to our beam for a bit, then behind us giving us a push as we flew towards West End. Some squalls appeared ahead of us on our XM weather radar, so as much as it pained the racer in me, we put a double reef in the main to slow down and give the squalls time to pass ahead of us. We managed to avoid all but a few rain drops.
After rounding West End and turning back East, we shook the reefs out of the main. We were making good time and just after I jinxed us by saying I think we can skip Mangrove and make Great Sale Cay by sunset, the auto-pilot sheared off its mount bolts. Shortly afterwards, the wind settled down and there was no way we’d make the next cay by sunset.
Hand steering the rest of the way, we anchored in the tiny bit of lee the small Mangrove Cay offered. Gathering up tools and spare bolts, I climbed down in the bilge to repair the auto pilot for tomorrow. Squeezing through the tiny access hatch, contorting in an advanced boat yoga pose, it occurred to me this was still better than being stuck at my desk.
Repair complete, a Sands beer with a lime rewarded me for a great sail and quick repair. I grilled burgers and we ate as we watched the sunset over this little island. How lucky we are to experience this.
✌️❤️⛵️
Leave a Reply