Hilton Head Island: ready

 

This morning I configured GANNET’s interior into passage mode.  It took me a little longer than usual because I had removed so much from her.  I filled all four 5 gallon water jerry cans, though also as usual not to the top.  The bags along the sides of the forepeak are not yet tied in place and there is one less than in the past.  I did not take harbor clothes or cold weather clothes to the boat.

I have charged the Yellowbrick and sent up a test position.  it is working, but presently deactivated to save the battery.  Hopefully I will remember to turn it on when I depart.  It will be set to upload positions every six hours as on ocean passages in the past.

A few have written wondering why I do not plan to stop in Bermuda.  As I think I have said, I have nothing against Bermuda and in fact everyone I know who has visited the island has enjoyed their time there.  But 800 miles is too short a distance to enter the monastery of the sea.  Three or four days out and I would already be counting the days to landfall.  I don’t really care that much about the land any more, if I ever did.  I want to be alone at sea.

Beyond that, which is conclusive, Ants sent me an email this afternoon that there is a COVID surge on Bermuda and the island is locked down. 

https://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/2021/04/14/#covid-surge-bermuda-threatens-sailgp-debut

I do hope I get to see Bermuda from a distance.

7:00 PM.  A martini is at hand. 

L’Chaim.