A rough day

We were up at dawn, hauled anchor and headed off to the Maskelyne islands. The wind was off our back starboard quarter and the swell off our port back quarter. This made for a rough ride as the day went on (for none sailors this is bit like being in a washing machine on wool program). The wind started at 8kts and slowly built. By the time it was up to 25kts, B suggested we reef the main, so we did. Staying on course we had to go with main only but slowing down the boat (having only one sail up and no engine) it was not long for the washing machine effect to get B sea sick ( unfortunately unwell already due to the jellyfish sting, more info on previous blog) and Alex even worse. We decided that it was quicker and better for Alex, as he was very seasick, if we changed plan and headed to Emae Island (only 4 hours away). Gina and I took turns at the helm and looking after our invalid. As we went the waves and wind increased. The waves reached 4m high. Some breaking over the deck, riding up the windscreen and over the cockpit. The wind increased to 30kts and gusting up to 38kts (72km/hr). Everyone was released to reach shelter at Emae. After a drink everyone went for a nap.

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