Light Winds
Where Next?
Bob Williams
Sun 7 Feb 2016 21:33
Course: West sou' west Speed 5 knots
Wind: North nor' east, F3 gentle breeze
Sea: slight Swell: north nor' east 1 meter
Weather: overcast, mild
Day's run: 109 nm
The winds have remained relatively light over the last 24 hours, especially during the early hours of this morning when the wind pressure in the sails was not sufficient to overcome the apparent wind generated by Sylph rolling in the slight swell which, in turn. caused the sails to, you guessed it, that most dreaded of phenomenon while sailing at sea, slat. I tolerated it until 4.00, then put two reefs in the main to at least keep us moving in the light winds while reducing the strain on the rig and the wear and tear on the sail each time the battens banged and crashed about. At 8.00 sufficient wind had returned to provide enough pressure to keep the sail drawing. so we are now back under full sail making good about six knots, much more satisfactory.
Despite the light winds we have still managed to post a respectable day's run of just over a hundred miles. Happy.
All is well