Saturday, December 13, 2008

Holy Hell, we're in Gomera!

Hi all! It's Joy this time -- I've been nominated to write the next blog post as Paul is busily learning how to operate (or spell?) his AIS transponder. It sounds a lot like a flux capacitor to me, but I'm told it will tell him when another ship is nearby so that he can either get out of the way or politely ask for beer.

We arrived in the town of San Sebastian on the island of La Gomera late yesterday afternoon. The ferry ride was mainly spent trying to estimate the height of the waves and trying not to appear seasick. I'll let you guess which of us did what...

We found Liv safe and sound, and it didn't take us long to establish that she's the very smallest of any boat in the harbor. But she's still pretty impressive and is attracting the attention of a number of passersby, none of whom we can communicate with. Does anyone know how to say "Yes, the WHOLE Atlantic" or "bucket and chuck it" in Spanish??

Today we actually got a fair amount done, including making an extensive to-do list, which we promptly left at the hotel. We also managed to install a wire on the deck for Paul to be clipped into, and we drilled holes in the boat and the rudder (scary!) for the tracking system, the backup steering system, etc. I'm sure we did some other things too, but the main thing I can recall is that I correctly identified a vice grip. I'm quite handy.

We've got much more on the list for tomorrow, but first we need to find the list...

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I believe you left out the part where you both covered yourselves in 800 SPF. Or was that on the forgotten to-do list?
Lots of love and best of luck this week!
A

Anonymous said...

Did you guys read about the Italian rower who just finished his Pacific trip but had to cut it short by 65 nautical miles due to storm? http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7781031.stm

Best of success.... NRRA member Leslie

That Guy said...

Sounds like a blast! make sure that you put a plug in any hole you drill!!

Anonymous said...

Have one of the locals check the boat. Make sure you have plugs for the seacocks. Also carry some water type sealant (3m 5200).

Remember...it's all mental from this point on...

Heading out is tough...so be prepared...

Contact Oceanrowing.com (UK based)if you need to speak to someone who understands English. They are the most respected group on the island and they know people on the ground.

Protect your bottom early on. If you don't have baby wipes, get them. No matter how tired you get, don't sleep in wet clothes.

If you haven't, make sure you draw a picture where all of your electrics are located. At somepoint, you will have to trouble shoot.

Take care of your watermaker. Make sure you have the manual. Try to use it daily so it doesn't clog up. If it does, take your time..and go through the process. Your ballast will cover you if watermaker can't be repaired.

Be extra alert in the shipping lanes. Conserve battery power.

Always stayed connected to your harness...

Take Care and God Speed...

adventuresofgreg said...

Go Paul Go!!!! I'm so glad to hear that you are finally in LaGomera - how exciting! I will be watching and really looking forward to following your journey!

Your ocean 'pedaling' buddy Greg K

Anonymous said...

May God bless you on your journey!!! I will be praying for you and your family.

Anonymous said...

Hi Kids - We miss you all but are keeping busy by packing for Antigua - see you there! Mind your p's & q's but try to have some fun this week - keep the power tools away from Joy - xxoo & prayers - lots of prayers - to all.

Anonymous said...

Hi joy,
Awesome! what your brother Paul is about to undertake. I wish him the best. I will be following on a daily basis...just amazing!.
Good luck and God speed.
Ali