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.