Blog Page Operational Again

G'day All,

Its Captain Ash from Puerto Rico, All goes well. Good news, Site issues have been resolved and currently reformatting web page and including some new and old information, particularly images. Keep watching for latest details, Future plans include a summer sail and Caribbean exploration and joining local regattas and races.

Ash

Columbus Day Open Day

Columbus Day Approaches,
To commemorate, an impromptu Freebooter open day where all who are interested can come visit and check out Freebooter her captain and her travels.
Drinks and social provisions (aka snacks) will be availaible on board and freebooter will be sporting full colours.
All are welcome, Freebooters, captains, scurvy crew, pirate maidens and landlubbers alike.
Moored at the Club Nautico De San Juan all are welcome on Saturday the 12th of October 2013, between midday and sunset (12:00-19:00).
If any queries don't hesitate to contact the captain at Freebooter@zoho.com* .
*Further contact details available on request.

Interruption of Image Content

Caution:- Land Locked Pirate

To all aspiring Freebooters out there, no need for concern, Freebooter is still doing well and further adventures await. Apologies however for the intermittent issue with the images and figures not being visualized, apparently theirs been some change in the blogger server that has collapsed the links to the images. This will be rectified in due course and more content will be added, both about our previous journey, now complete, and the overall brief to be added to the Periplus, and future adventures. 

All will be pleased to know that the expected tropical storm, alluded to in the previous blog, blew itself out. After shutting down the island though. In any case fingers crossed that the possibilities of Hurricanes hitting Puerto Rico this year, has come to an end. Currently assembling a crew for the coming seasons Caribbean Regattas so if anyone is interested please contact the Captain.

Heres wishing one and all, fair winds and a following sea.

Captain Ash

Tropical Storm Gabrielle

Nearest a tropical storm has got to Freebooter yet, possibly in the next 24 hrs, as tropical storm Gabrielle approaches. On tropical storm watch overnight on Freebooter to ensure there are no issues, all lines and fenders are secure. Finger crossed the storm passes to the west of us as forecast.

San Juan, Puerto Rico-Final Port of Call

Freebooter has arrived,
After an arduous 6 days at sea after leaving the Turks & Caicos, we made it to San Juan. It was an ambitious Northly tack, to beat against the predominant E-ESE winds, for a long final tact SE to Puerto Rico from the Atlantic side. It was not working well, variable winds and squalls delayed our progress. We finally got a break off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic in the form of a NE'stly. We were then able to make a run across the eastern top of the Dominican Republic, across the Mona Passage, directly for the western tip of Puerto Rico. It didn't hold out for long before turning into an E'stly, but enough for us to make the Mona passage crossing in its infamous swell. On a time constraint, as a crew member had a flight from San Juan, we motored for 10 hours in the close into the lee of the island. We did this for better time and to avoid the ocean swell. We made landfall early saturday morning into San Juan. A lovely end to a great voyage. We were greeted by the mild winds and protected waters of the inner harbour, a salve after days at sea out of sight of land. After clearing customs, and cleaning the boat, we got to enjoy some of the old San Juan, and my new home and haven for Freebooter at N18 27.589, W66 05.306. A far cry from Freebooters homeport of Fleetwood, but a nice home harbour nonetheless.

The Journey has been ambitious, at some times perilous, but a great adventure none the less, where Freebooter has surpassed my expectations and that of the crew, for a safe haven in the blue waters of the Caribbean, where Freebooter can really come into her own.

Freebooters Final Tally (Boat log) for the Stormrunner (UK-Canada) and Sunseeker (Canada-Puerto Rico) adventures, is 7429 nm. That's the distance travelled from Fleetwood, UK to San Jan, Puerto Rico by sail boat since our departure on the 3rd of May. We'll be updating the website with the actual route taken (GPS Co-ordinates and dates) from the log shortly and posting on the accessory sailblog route page and eventually on this web page itself as an image.

I would like to thank all the crew (Freebooters one and all) for a sterling effort and there invaluable assistance in making this adventure possible.

Freebooter is now about to undergo some much overdue love and attention in harbour, but her adventures will continue...

Turks & Caicos

After sailing over the Crooked Islands, between the Plana Cays and below Mayaguana and above Inagua, we were going to make the the crossing of the Caicos Bank, when I saw fraying in the forward baby stay. Obviously when rigging is fraying immediate steps need to be made to repair the rigging. Fraying was possibly exacerbated by strong winds we had been sailing in for the last 2 days. We continued on our N'ly tack (rather than continuing south to the Dominican Republic) to make the closest port of call in the Turks & Caicos islands. We made Sapodilla Bay before nightfall where we anchored protected from the strong Easterlies. Following morning we moved the boat on the high tide to a shallow Marina, 6 miles east so work could be done to jury rig a repair to the baby stay with some local support from the Shipyard. All done we enjoyed some local drinks cuisine and saw some of the sights on the island. Tomorrow we depart at high tide, back for our original destination, although we will be taking a northly route, above Turks  Caicos and out into the Deep Atlantic, in order to avoid the strong winds that are associated with the low pressure that is sitting on the Dominican Republic, for the calmer winds of the high pressure in the North Atlantic. We will stay at deep sea for 2 days before making a tack back directly towards Puerto Rico, and hopefully missing the worst of the strong easterlies and associated thunderstorms. In other words, Freebooter once again is stormrunning.

Eleuthera & Long Island, Bahamas

We sailed from West Bay, New Providence down the Tongue of the Ocean to Fresh Water Harbour, encountered strong winds and moderate seas, making the Exuma crossing unfeasible. tried berthing in Fresh water harbour but not enough depth. Anchored behind the US Navy research station and went ashore for provisions. Rowed 2 miles to fresh water and back for provisions anchoring became untenable in the  hard ground in the lee of the breakwater, so pulled anchor, to go sailing back in the deep waters of the Tongue of the Ocean, our only way forward in the strong winds was to sail back to New Providence and go to deep waters north of Eluethera unless the winds abated. As we approached Eleuthera, winds abated and good weather returned the following day so we decided to take the shallow protected waters on the Eleuthera bight that in essence was a shortcut, and allowed us to have some time at anchor to enjoy the island, as sailing in shallow waters at night is never recomended.

We stopped in the lovely protected harbours of Hatchett Bay and Governors Harbour. By coincidence we arrived at Hatchett Bay during the August homecoming and Island holiday, so we were able to enjoy the festival onshore, as we were on a  mooring, before getting a good nights rest. Governors Harbour was a great little harbor where at anchor, we found a mooring block (when diving the beautiful clear waters to check anchor holding) so we wrapped the anchor around the mooring that gave us extra security and allowed us to explore the oldest town and former center of government of The Bahamas. We enjoyed a nice meal and a few drinks at the local Bar. From Governors Harbour we sailed to Eluethera Marina, just off Powels point after passing the shallow exit passage of Davis Channel. We stopped to take fuel at the Marina, but Marina was closed, Was going to stop over night, but insects were prevalent in the Marina. Wind had died so we motored over night and the next day through the deep waters of the Exuma sound, in the Lee of Cat Island and pass the Exumas straight for Long Island. Our objective to get to the last deep water Marina of the Far Bahamas at Clarence Bay, Long Island. Unfortunately due to strong currents in the north of Long Island, we lost an hour which meant we had to approach the harbour at twilight and in the dark, since the East end of the Island is completely surrounded by uncharted reef shallows, our only options were to keep motoring to the east, or try to enter the harbour at night. We made the entrance into the main channel of the harbour at night to see how well lit the area was and whether docking was a possibility. As t turned out, Flying fish Marina was lit and the entrance harbour was quite clear and well marked, so we were able to take a berth for the night. Unfortunately the town was closed tight since its a holiday weekend. Today however we were able to refuel, re-provision with water and soon we will explore the Island before heading out late this afternoon for the final run to Puerto Rico, a 6 day trip out to the lee of the Turk Islands and across the top of Hispaniola and across the infamous Mona Passage to Puerto Rico. Forecast looks good for some nice winds tonight and tomorrow, despite the rain, although the rain will make the trip a little cooler. Looking forward to parting on our arrival at Puerto Rico, and once more being in civilization.

In Retrospect, it was a shame to miss the Exumas, as I've heard great things but theirs always next time, and Eleuthera was well worth the visit and saved us time rounding the Island to the north and west on the Atlantic side.Freebooters deep draft does make exploration of the shallow waters of The Bahamas interesting, and anchoring is an important aspect of sailing the Bahamas, a good tender is also important, and we've become quite proficient at popping out the inflatable dinghy for rowing ashore, in true Freebooter fashion, nothing better than anchoring off and rowing ashore on a tender. Also we've met some great personages, helpful locals and had a great time. After our long journey across the Nth Atlantic, the Bahamas have been a much needed salve to Freebooter and her hardy crew.

Leaving Nassau for the Exumas

Provisioning and resupplying Freebooter for evening departure for the west end of New Providence, where we will anchor off in the lee of the island to be protected from the easterly winds that are battering the poor Freebooter in Nassau Harbour. 

From there we will wait to be joined tomorrow by our 6th crew member aboard Freebooter, so we will be ready to push on to the Exumas and the remaining Far Bahamas. I've heard many great things about the wild coconuts and the crystal clear waters of these secluded Cays.

Nassau, Bahamas

Finally in the Caribbean, and its living up to expectations.Internet connections have been limited so update has been delayed since our departure from Fort Lauderdale. From Fort Lauderdale we sailed across the Gulf stream overnight to the Grand Bahama Island, to make a landing at Freeport. We tried to take a berth at one of the local marinas only to find that we were too deep to enter (We became grounded briefly in the middle of the channel).

From then we decided to sail to the Berry Islands in deep water overnight and berth at Chub Cay. Lovely deep mooring in a marina that was almost empty but with all the facilities, some of which were abandoned out of miss-use, it was actually gorgeous but so empty it reminded me of a tropical version of the hotel in the shinning. On the following day, after taking care of customs and clearance we sailed, in perfect winds, for 3 hours to Morgan's Bluff, on Andros Island, where we anchored off and rowed into the harbour to resupply and quench our thirst. The following day we sailed off in the morning for the 8 hour trip to New Providence Island. In the Lee of Andross Island our trip started in duldrums, but soon the wind picked up, and again we had a lovely wind to sail almost on one tack all the way to Nassau Harbour.  An interesting entrance int Nassau Harbour as we narrowly avoid the outcoming cruise ships... and to safe harbour. So berthed in Nassau for the next few days, as we say farewell to another crew member and prepare for the final leg of our sunseeker run, Island hopping from New Providence to Puerto Rico.

To the Caribbean

Today we have departed fort Lauderdale, Florida for the Caribbean...first stop the Bahamas. Boat is ship shape and rearing to go. I write this now as we depart for a night crossing of the gulf stream. Conditions are perfect, calm seas and a gentle breeze, hopefully a sign of things to come.
A noteworthy mention is a new addition to our motely crew, the inestimable captain of Bananas, on secondment, and the remaining of our tried member from Plymouth. On a sadder note tbe departure of 2 experienced crew members, one of which was apart of the journey from the very beginning. Alas as quoted "them's that dies are the lucky ones"

Cape Canaveral to Fort Lauderdale

As we approached fort Lauderdale the gap between the 2-4kt contrary gulf stream and the land became smaller and smaller. We had to avoid the gulf stream at all expense or fight the oncoming current and lose half our speed forward. We buffer the coast tightly, staying within the underwater contour depths of between 20-40ft. In the end we were sailing within 100 m of land to less than 1 NM, and we were still feeling the effects of the current. The wind was of variable strength, and we lost our easterly a day before forecasted. Worse we got a southerly-to south easterly. Occasionally we sailed, mostly as had to motor sail to make time. Weather was still changeable but warm. Emergency fuel was used to top up tank as fuel from Plymouth started to run low. Navigation light was suspected of being broken, and given the rain, decided to install emergency navigation lighting. Lighting worked well. On later inspection masthead lights was fine. Fixed genoa furler and long range VHF radio went down. Finally in Fort Lauderdale where new crew member came to join us and had everything taken care of on our arrival. We finally arrived and all was well with the crew again. Next step is on our way to the Bahamas. Re-provisioning and replacing some gear (ie radio) climbed the mast to check rigging all is well. Unfortunatly we lose two valued crew members, but we gain one scurrilous friend in exchange. Updates to the website and details of our Caribbean adventure soon to be posted. Meanwhile enjoying R & R in our last stop in USA.

Cape Fear to Cape Canaveral

Escaping the inland waterway. So taking the advantageous easterly we propelled ourselves down the coast at a great rate of knots, running the gauntlet of the slue of the frying pan shoals and over the subsequent days running before the high pressure, dodging thunderstorms and trying to keep ahead of the high pressure systems that were coming across our latitude. In the main we were successful occasionally blighted by no wind,  but keeping clear of the doldrums. So finally near C. Canaveral, we can see the machinery of the US space race. Bypassing the Chester shoals, but sticking close to avoid the northerly gulf stream, we head straight down to Fort Lauderdale within 10-20 NM off the coast on this single easterly tack. 150 NM from freebooters Caribbean takeoff point.

Statement of Disclaimer

As a matter of course, I would like to state that the recent posts have been less lubugrious than my standard fare, and I offer only this one point... thick pirate fingers typing on advanced, although incredibly sensitive ans small touch screen technology. So any grammer issues, inappropriate words or less that stellar punctuation is most likely due to Mr Android and his application programmers.

Regards

Cap'n Ash

Lightning Run

After Ocean city we saw 3 thunderstorm systems just off the land to the south east, the decision was taken to push further south to south-east to avoid the.systems (and the possibility of the ultimate sailors nightmare having your mast been struck by lightning). Their was a lot of lightning strikes but we appeared to miss most of the storm being offshore. Their was a heavy price to pay however, our forward progress.was being wrested by the gulfstream at the rate of 1-2 knots. It made for a great light show. The next day another three smaller sets came through, we avoided them to the west. Before taking again south, to follow within 3 NM of the Cape Hatteras shore line, and following the coast around to Cape Fear.

Ocean City to Cheasapeake Bay

A late night departure from Ocean City, where we re-met our fourth crew member, who had a brief sorguin ashore, to continue our journey south to the Bahamas. Next destination Fort Lauderdale. Quite a run, our first waypoint Cheasapeake bay. Our departure was relatively inconspicuous, our first 6 hours under engine over glassy seas and dark fog...4 intrepid adventurers setting out into the blackness. On the following morning wind slowly picked up and we were out on the Atlantic once more heading south on the predominate southwesterly. A week of bearing into the with to look forward, but soon the heady tropics to enjoy.

New York City to Ocean City

With the prerequisite liberty statue and long island sail through being accomplished. We soon set sail, on the evening tide to spend our first night with the new crew on the Atlantic. All went well and good passage to Delaware Bay was made with long beats all the way down until we hit the tide. We payed with beats down the coast, sailing to within 50 m of the Beach and tacking in front of the beachcombers and onlookers.
We made ocean city just before nightfall and enjoyed a pizza on the beach.

Cape Cod to New York City

So our destination from Plymouth was Fort Lauderdale, but we wanted to do a sail past of liberty statue and long island on the way through. Leaving Plymouth was a little bitter sweet, on one hand gaining two new members to the crew, on the other hand losing our last Atlantic crew member, to the dreaded shore leave.
So departure from Plymouth went as planned, set sail for the late high tide oft the cape cod canal, and timed it perfectly with the fire in our favour. In celebration we gunkholed in buzzards bay to await morning light.
Morning came and with it mist and in a busy harbour. After hours of tacking back and forth against the wind, and into the fog, we took the long tack out into the Atlantic, for some playing room. We looked at the forecast ad it was grim. Fog set for the next 2 days. A decision was made, given the accuracy of weather forecasting, anything could happen. So we braved it. July 4th was spent on the waters ofon island sound watching the fireworks, early July the 5th we begin motoring up the east river just at the turn offbeat tide, and it pushed us along the River past manhatten downtown new york up to the Hudson and out into new York harbour proper, with all the boat traffic and the liberty statue. We sailed out past Staten island and anchored off Coney island for a bit of dinner and preparation before pushing onto more southerly climes. By the way, the gambit paid off the weather up the new York sound and right through New York was perfect, the forecasted fogs never appeared.

Plymouth, Mass, USA. The first landing of the New World!

After 2 days of strong winds straight across the Gulf of Maine, we made safe harbour in Plymouth, the first landing of the Mayflower. A lovely harbour, with a great Harbour master's office (who have been most helpful) and we've got a great mooring out front of Plymouth itself. Passed immigration today and currently cruising this lovely traditional US town. Also got to meet our new crew member, and we are all excited about our next trip; to cruise around Long Island (New York City) for a compulsory sail around the statue of Liberty and then sail for 10-14 days sail down the coast to Fort Lauderdale.

Overnight stop Lockport

After a night and morning of rain, fog and slight variable winds, decided to make harbour at Lockport, to refuel and catch up on some sleep, before making the crossing over the Gulf of Maine for the North Eastern US coast. It was an interesting entrance to make in the fog, blind not even seeing the cans on entrance and relying soly on the Canadian Nautical charts and GPS for entrance through shallow shoals and breaking rocks. Thank goodness for our colleagues in St John's lending us his comprehensive charts of the southeastern Nova Scotia or the entrance would not be possible. A nice day, albeit overcast, although promising favourable easterly winds and the warmer weather of the more southern latitudes Next Stop Plymouth

Halifax- The Doorway to the South

Landed all safe and well into Harbor at 4 am this morning. A well lit Harbor, with wonderful protection up the northwestern arm, where we were able to anchor off for a good night (or mornings rest). Resupplying, checking weather and getting in touch with future crew members on the old wifi... fresh fruit and bread, a habit we got into after St Pierre where we were spoilt with leaving presents of Lobsters, crabs, french bread and homemade jams. Lovely sunny day today, so we put everything out and took a mooring closer to the shopping center at the end of the northwestern harbor arm. We will head off at day break tomorrow for a sail to Plymouth, our intended first port of call in the US of A. Good weather forecast and favourable winds for Wens and Thurs that will give us good headway at the Gulf of Maine. Have crew member requests coming in thick and fast but we have a couple of excellent candidates that hopefully will be joining us in Plymouth/New York for the sunseeker run... Wishing all fair winds and following seas...

St Pierre et Miquelon, Viva la France

And so the second phase of the journey begins St John's, Canada to San Juan, Puerto Rico. We traveled 3 days against the wind and fog to make St Pierre, on the day of St Pierre the Patron of the Island and Patron of Sailors. So we were welcomes by the local residents in great style, fine french bread and wine. Also first and last time to fully recharge batteries on 240 V system, dry out the boat and crew and to bid Europe a final adieu in North America. Also a great opportunity to catch up on some long needed sleep in a fully protected harbor before setting off on our long awaited rendezvous with the more southerly latitudes and summer-like climes. St Pierre was so much more than I ever expected and was so welcoming its actually hard to leave. Alas a timetable to meet and southern climates to look forward to when all the crew are rested and well prepared. Next stop Halifax.

Sunseeker Run- St John's, Canada to San Juan, Puerto Rico

So the next adventure of Freebooter and her wily crew has been set... Puerto Rico or Bust!

Having endured the northern latitudes, with the cold summer weather and the warm lovely people, we turn our gaze, and our bow, to the southern latitudes... 

The Pirate waters of the Caribbean, beacon the intrepid Freebooter, with blue waters, corals and warm weather. So off south we go, leaving today from the rugged beauty of the natural Port of St John's, Newfoundland (Canada), to the misty netherworld of Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) for the first step of our southern run. 

The long term plan is to go to New York, sail around the statue of Liberty sail down the east coast of the USA to Fort Lauderdale. That's the quick run, which will give us more time to then head southeast into the Bahamas and ultimately Puerto Rico at a more leisurely (and scenic) pace.

Of course we will be sailing, as usual, the wrong way, against predominate winds and ocean currents, all the way to For Lauderdale, USA, but then again... whats the fun in doing it the "normal" way!

All systems are running and the Blue Peter has been raised, and again St John's brings out the sun for our departure...

Landfall in St John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Freebooter and crew make Landfall in St John's ! We've done the Nth Atlantic crossing. Crossing the Atlantic the wrong way! 30 days and 2900 nautical miles later! Hurragh! Amazing finish to the trip, 3 days of heavy fog, sailing blind, to hear a fog horn, and then to see the cliffs either side of St John's. An incredible safe haven and welcome relief for a tired boat and crew.

So in the end the Cabot run, due to storms and time constraints was not really viable. Instead we ran before the storms, headed south under the low systems and back up to Canada.

The Cabot Storm-Runner Run across the North Atlantic is now at an end. Subsequent journey and route are currently being planned, in the next week the journey south, to the warmer latitudes of the Caribbean.

And the Freebooter adventures continue....

Daily Updates on Position

Just a  reminder to those who are interested, our daily or every other day position reports will be posted on the Freebooter sailblogs page by our ground support (via sat phone). See
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/freebooter,

Blue Peter on Angra

The Blue Peter has been raised, last minute re-provisioning, boat preparation and repairs are currently being done, Departure time set for late afternoon (Hence the Blue Peter recalling all crew).

The Azores have been great, lovely weather, fabulous fresh food , especially the seafood, and local wines. People have been great too, which always makes a visit nice, and from a tourist perspective, we've almost had the island to ourselves. Amazing history and very scenic to boot, definitely would recommend, especially a little restaurant down the road at the fishing port of San Miguel called Beira-Mar. Well recommended by the locals.

On the other hand looking forward to the remaining crossing, forecast for the next 8 days looks good, nice and warm, clear skies and reaching winds...

Angra de Heroisim, Terceira, Azores

Half-way mark; Arrived at the Azores for a couple of days of downtime and a good nights rest (without shift at the helm). 

Freebooter has done well, weathering 2 storms of up to Force 10 winds. A few minor issues, which will be resolved, majorly wet weather, soaken clothes and a dire need to sleep, long shift

On the good side after reaching the more southerly latitudes, sunny days with over 25 degrees C, good windspeeds and we even tried some fishing. Lots of wildlife, from bluebottles to small and large dolphins and birds, even deep at sea. 

Angra is very scenic looking forward to exploring more of this very historical island.

More updates shortly
 

Window in the Heavy Weather

Theirs a window in the heavy weather, planning to leave Cork this evening for more southern latitudes and the high seas.

Sheltering from the Storm in Cork

Still holed up in Cork, sheltering from the Atlantic Storm off the Southwestern coast of Ireland. Itching to be off across the Atlantic but awaiting a clear window to take a southerly run away from the set of Low pressures coming east across the Atlantic feeding the storm system. 5 days behind schedule, arrival in Newfoundland looks set for early June rather than late May.

A day in Cork

Off to Chandlery, ordering specific Nautical Charts, catching up on the internet and doing some sight seeing in the lovely city of Cork. Weather-Storm force winds and the occasional sunny spell. Enjoying our last exposure to Civilization before the Cabot Run.

Cross haven, Cork-Ireland

 On trip to Cork, despite reassuring weather forecasts Freebooter got caught in onshore Atlantic Gale force winds off South-eastern Ireland, so we really got a chance too test out the rigging! Boat sailed well, flying along over waves with all but a handkerchief for a Jib! Good to be in a safe harbour though, and looking forward to a good fresh shower and a nights sleep dreaming of large waves...

Dun Loaghaire-Dublin, Ireland

Despite SW winds and long beats most of the way, a lovely day sail from Isle of Man to Ireland with everything from blue seas to dolphins. Reached Dublin in the early morning, and after a much deserved rest, captain and crew setting about the business of addressing boat systems, protocols, and provisions after which a good nights rest and route planning for Southern Ireland.

All's well with the crew and boat. Confidence is growing as everyone is becoming more familiar and comfortable with Freebooter. Freebooter is in good condition and doing well as we stretch the rigging once more with balanced sailing speeds of over 7.5 knots.

Port Douglas - Isle of Man

After a lovely departure from Fleetwood, an excellent beginning to our journey motoring out under clear sky & calm seas. Even better ... after a few hours the wind slowly built up to 20 kn and we were able to sail at hull speed as night fell. A southwesterly wind, so we sailed northwest to the Isle of Man. Excellent night of sailing we arrived at Port Douglas at 5 am, we'll stay here for half a day, wait for the wind to turn westerly and we'll make the southwest run to Dublin, Ireland. All well, boat running excellent, no issues.

The Moment of Departure is Nigh!

Last minute preparations underway, provisions are going to be loaded, one last check of systems, a few pre-runs and loading of some more gear and we are away on the next high tide, with a 4 pm departure. Look forward to seeing everyone there (Fleetwood) to see us off, Next Stop Ireland!

Aussie and Canadian Flag compete with the Flying Fish of Freedom!

Huzar.... Captain and Navigator's Flags fly high, and with support from friends and family near and far, Freebooters journey soon to begin. 3 more days to Estimated Departure date, all systems go, last minute systems and components being put in place. 

Aussie Flag Flying high!

Freedom awaits... finally progress and boat almost ready for the sea! Navigator aboard final preparations being put into place.

Murphy's Law

That inevitable Irish law which always applies at times of great need. The indefatigable fourth law of thermodynamics" as described by Anne Roe, which clearly states: "If anything can go wrong, it will".
Now not one to break laws, of course, I found myself drawn into the unique ponderies of an unassailable topic. In any case, despite check and re-checks, just on the day of need, a key system goes down, which is subsequently followed by an example of bureaucracy gone mad. 
Ok so none of us can avoid the bureaucracy, but does anybody have an antithesis to Murphy's law? An anti-disaster Talisman? An "if anything will go in your favour... it will!" I'm happy to consider all proposals, from kissing the blarney stone to a Faustian bargain.

Relaunch on Friday

Finally after a week of toil and trouble, Freebooter gets relaunched on Friday morning, with a fresh coat of paint, anodes, seacocks and a running gear check. Fingers crossed all goes well on relaunch, I'm thinking a small champagne event, maybe a Spanish Cava! In any case stage 3 of the Freebooter oceanic overhaul will initiate, covering rigging, mast, electronics and sails. The departure date looms closer daily!

Back in the British Isles

After a short journey, finally back on the British Isles. A bit of a homecoming, its been nice to see family and friends, many of the latter of whom I have still to meet (so apologies to all my old friends that I have yet to meet, you are on the list). 

Meanwhile its back to boating and being reunited with my the infamous Freebooter. After being on the hard and moth balled for what feels like forever, I am back aboard tacking inventory,  clearing, and cleaning the boat from top to bottom. I've a busy weekend planned ahead, although its not really about planning. At this stage its more about action, and its a great feeling seeing things come into place.

Still at refrigerator temperatures outside (2-6 degrees Celsius)  which makes working outside (ie swabbing the decks) an interesting (if not freezing) proposition, despite the unseasonably sunny weather. In essence, I am a happy man as long as the rain holds off for a little longer, warmer weather would be a nice little bonus, but not imperative. Timetables have to be met and work to be done, so its full steam ahead.

In the Land of Leprechauns

After a dire overnight-er on the flea-bitten express, I've been surprisingly greeted by a fresh yet very sunny Irish Spring day. Met some interesting people, outrageous characters and colourful language, after only being here for 3 hours. That said I'm at a port!
I take it as a great omen for the adventures yet to come, the luck of the Irish must be upon me...

Soon to be in Dublin

Tomorrow I leave for Dublin, Ireland, and a couple more days before the physical preparation of Freebooter for relaunching, sea trials and the Trans-Atlantic trip begins. 

Once in Fleetwood, lots of work still to be done, plenty to survey, assess, calibrate and equip for the journey to ensure that Freebooter is in Class A, Ocean level seaworthy, robust and safe condition.

Every day a step closer to the Trans-Atlantic Cabot Run. 2 years in the making, 3 months in the planning, and next month in preparation, before the 30th of April, Walpurgis Night Departure. All is going according to plan.

Wishing a Happy Easter to all.

Crew Selected

So Cabot Run preparations are well underway crew requirement for the passage is being filled.  Will publish shortly with a rough guideline on what's recommended for the ocean passage.

Subsequent sailing, cruising to either to Toronto by the Gulf of St Lawrence and the St Lawrence River, or via New York are still being contemplated, but leisurely sailing crew always welcome for summer on the Yacht.

Departure is set for the 30th of April 2013, Walpurgis Night, from Fleetwood, on the high tide, all going well.

I'll be adding more on Walpurgis Night and the Spring Festival at Sea!

I've added more on John Cabot and the Navigation, and will be changing some aspects of the layout and form to adapt to further information.

Further Information

Further background information added with regards to the Cabot Run in particular on John Cabot (Venetitan Zuan Chabotto; c. 1450–c.1499) and the 1497 voyage of discovery and on the vessel Freebooter. Further information on the Navigation of the Cabot Run, Crew and Provisioning along with Photographs and details will be uploaded as we approach the departure time, high tide on Walpurgis Night.

Freebooter goes Online

This site is the virtual log for the dissemination of information regarding the Sailing Vessel Freebooter of Fleetwood, and of her Captain and Crew.

The Site is still under construction further details will be available shortly.

Regards

Capt Ash