Friday...
Up early to contact radio friends, in between naps - still needing plenty of sleep and sneezing now and then...
Have been spending a lot of time looking at weather grib files and weather-faxes, trying to decide on how best to tackle the sail north from Mexico. Plan is to use the old 'Clipper' route offshore rather than bash and motor my way up the US west coast or the even longer alternative of sailing out to Hawaii and then N - that would be a really big detour...
Sunny, hot day, once morning cloud layer dissipated. We've been motoring solidly against a gentle breeze but I noticed just after midday that the wind was more N. Tried cutting the engine and sailing - seemed fine to begin with and the peace is always very welcome. But our speed slowly dropped - from well over 4 knots to 1.6kt an hour later - at which point I was forced to act... Oh well..! I just hope I don't have a problem in Cabo refuelling when I get there on Sunday.
No dolphins seen, only the occasional 2 or 3 boobies coming by - and leaving presents... grrr! Starry sky at night is always a delight, as is the dark sea, sparkling with diamonds of light with our wash. The crescent moon set last night glowing a deep orange.
About to transfer some diesel into the main tank - seas aren't too lumpy just now so best to get on with it.
Then I'll consider my options on getting some wind info - there is a possibility.... and it would certainly be helpful to have.
Present position is 170 n.ml. SE of Cabo San Lucas and about 60 mls SW of the Islas Marias - the largest of which has a penal colony for dangerous felons.... The word is not to approach too close - and not to pick up anyone swimming in the water nearby!