Hello dear friends. I know that there hasn’t been any news from me for a little while, but the weather was difficult, and it wasn’t until yesterday that the sun peaked out and I was able to bring the cabin and boat into order.
I weathered the storm without any breakdowns. The wind was strong, but Northerly, meaning that it was warm. It created huge waves, but the boat is sturdy and she withstood it all.
After the storm, the wind went down to 5 knots, but the waves stayed at 5-6 metres high. I had to wait another day before the ocean calmed and I could inspect the boat.
I noticed again today that the hull is becoming overgrown with seaweed and barnacles, and little fish come to nip at the bottom. I haven’t seen any large mammals (dolphins and whales), but the sight of the little fish brings me joy.
I am nearing the “midpoint” in my journey. By my calculations, I should cross the “midpoint” around 6-7 of February. Those dates will also mark two months in the Southern Ocean.
When I cross the 130 degrees longitude West, I will enter into international waters that are under the responsibility of the Chilean Maritime Administration. There are 2,600 nautical miles to Cape Horn.
Fedor Konyukhov
49’37 South
142’00 West