October27

[position] 30

[weather] wind variable 10 to 22 knts S, sea 1.5 meter NE, cloud 85%,
Bar 1021

[status] We had a nice day sailing yesterday with sunny skies, 20 to 25
knts WSW wind, reefed and averaging 7.5 knts.  Reefed down more
overnight, winds 15 to 25 knts, and a couple showers with brief 30 knts
wind.  At midnight, we saw a UFV (unidentified Foreign Vessel) on our
AIS, which then magically disappeared, and we suspect some kind of
fishing vessel.

The whale continues to behave nicely.  Our refit solved the problem of
banging anchors and squeaking mast (thanks Steve!). The other very
noticeable difference is that the boat is so quiet inside.  And, now we
have a great backrest on our pilot house berth (thanks Steve & Kim!).
The last 2 nights we've enjoyed some of our smoked kingfish (thanks
Tim!) with cream cheese recipe (thanks Dave!).

Today is a grey day which we hope will burn off.  Wind has backed around
to the S as expected, and will turn more to the SW.  We are headed for
Minerva, but may go straight to Fiji depending on weather.  All good on
board.

Gail & Tony

[END]