It was a glorious day of sailing today on Kite.  We had a clear rounding of Tuskar in the company of Black Mamba (154) and BHB (152).   

Then, the descent down the Celtic sea was a day we sailors dream of.  Blue skies, downwind, fast at times, and lots of wildlife.  Puffins, Murres, Manx Shearwaters, gannets, and razorbills, just to name a few.  Then, this evening, I heard squeaking down below and went on deck to investigate only to be greeted by a dolphin.  Perhaps the dolphin wanted me to come on deck?

All of this in the company of other class 40s and not too far out of touch with the newer scows.  

It was a day to lock away and treasure in the future. We will savor these moments when bashing back to the finish in the coming days.  

See you all soon.

Well, it was an intense 30 hours with the lively breeze at the start and the fresh channel crossing.  The Mach 3s are not known for their dry comfort, and Kite did not disappoint.  

The Solent passage was uneventful with a kind following current.  Monday offered glorious spinnaker conditions albeit requiring constant attention.  These are the days we dream of as sailors.  At least until the wind disappears as it did just before Land’s End.  We now find ourselves trying mightily to keep up with Black Mamba in 2 kts of wind and as much current at times.  The Longships lighthouse was ghostly lurking in the shadows as we passed nearby trying to hide from the current.  

So far, we are happy to have seen many fulmars, kittiwakes, and gannets.  We are looking forward to a more spirited climb of the Irish Sea.