The first day of sailing with Winsome since the Rolex Fastnet Race 2019

August 8, 2021

Just after we decided to leave Cherbourg on Saturday 09:00 we learned that 40 knots wind could be expected in the afternoon. It took us no more than five minutes to decide that we would leave four hours earlier i.e. at 05:00 with following time schedule 03:45 getting up, leaving Sophie’s small paradise at 04:00 etc.

Upon arrival in Cherbourg the rain came down upon us as if we had done something wrong. Well perhaps that was leaving Sophie and Gipsy/Basta.

We were right away soaked but Sophie who accompanied us to carry all luggage and transport the crew, as well.

We started the engine and that lasted four hours. Our speed of 6-7 knots killed the wind, coming from behind.

After these hours we hoisted G-4 and we made 8 knots SOG.

When crossing the shipping lane we came very close to the Taiwanese container carrier EVER GIVEN, which blocked some months ago the Suez Canal for a week or so. This time she had no containers on board.

We arrived at 4pm at the Squadron Haven where we loaded some items we had forgotten.

Ready for the race which will now start only at 12:10. After the wind decreased in the afternoon, more wind is expected Sunday! Most likely a start with fore sail IV and perhaps one reef in the main sail

Post by Harry Heijst | August 8, 2021 |

1 Comment

  1. With such preparation at Sophie’s, Winsome’s crew arrives at the Fastnet start fully rested! Good luck, only a few hours now!!

    by Hidde Kroon | 08 Aug 2021 | 10:52