Here we are, having arrived in Barbados after a safe crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. The last hour brought the dolphins! Finally arriving and now being here after a planning time of more than three years feels outstanding at every extent.
The crossing took us 15 days and the ocean has been very kind with us. So was Yuana: she kept going so well and didn’t have the smallest technical issue for that longest stretch she had ever done. Last but not least we had (and still have) a wonderful crew. Each day was fun, which couldn’t have been expected in such a confined space.
Particularly the last days were easy and quick downwind sailing. Compared to previous crossings, this one was more relaxed, mainly because of the additional crew. Moreover and due to the length of this leg, the general target was more to survive the day and less to arrive in Barbados. We just sailed without thinking about estimated arrival date and time.
This leg included some strategic route which was a very nice part as well. On which route would we find the combination of favorable winds, short distance and a good position for the following days of the journey? Each day midday brought the new position update for all the ship.
Who would have gained or lost a bit of ground? Studying the boats and sailing record of some of the crews, I believe that our team has done very well! Congratulations from the Captain!
How was it, compared to our expectations?
– Weather was easier than thought: winds below 25 knots, waves below 3 meters, almost no squalls
– Health: practically no sea sickness
– Fishing: we didn’t catch the big guys (or they took our lures away)
– Family: on & off sleeping patterns and the tiredness from sleeping in motion made it a bit difficult at some times to enjoy the family time. Kids were however happy with movies and pop corn
– Extra crew: reliable, lovely, charming
– No 24 hour news stream: bad, but survived
Last but not least, our daughter who always wanted to fly rather then sail announced that she will be part of the crew also once the time will come to travel back to Europe. Flight ticket saved, hooray;-)!
Atlantic accomplished. Twice. 