We’re in deep fog, visibility is down to a few yards. The wind has dropped back to 15 knots. It’s wet with a constant drizzle – yet I spent several very happy hours on deck.
It was the first time the wind was less than 20 knots in almost three weeks and back to a sort of normality as we power along some 400 miles south west of Tasmania. I am fighting a psychological mid voyage crisis, the sheer isolation, and not knowing what will happen next keeps my humble brain in orbit. It is not helped by being on the backup autopilot, no computer and comms, without proper information it’s hard to compete but I’m lucky to be close to the other boats. On the positives at least the sat phone works. The entire engineering department of the Southern Ocean Residents Association are working to solve all the various problems on board. Also with what seemed like supplies on board being in abundance now everything from paper towels to gas for the stove have to be measured to last so that we can complete the voyage. Also having enough diesel to be able to keep the battery charging is a concern complementing the hydro generators one of which is not working. On deck the big issue is not being able to reef the mainsail in heavy air. And to think we’re not even half way. At times I despair, other times just exist. And now after many hours of hard physical work we’ve actually had a good day. Setting the A3 spinnaker up alone is a major task. It starts with lifting the massive sail out of the forepeak, all 280 square metres out through the small fore hatch. Setting up the sheets and eventually the hoist. Normally a task for 5 or 6 on a boat this size. It’s surreal here as we move along in the fog, totally alone, deep in the southern ocean. The fact that we are sailing along as a group is a strong comfort should something go wrong in this remote location. A final thought - wouldn't it be fun if all of us in the group downed sails and got together on Christmas Day? A bit like the battle front in the First World War. Happy Christmas to all. Slainte, Enda O’C
9 Comments
Liam Egan
12/23/2016 05:09:05 am
Brilliant Enda. I love the idea of a Christmas truce but,somehow, I don't think it's going to happen. Hang in there despite the problems. We are all in awe of what you have done so far and wish you fair winds on the remainder of your epic voyage.
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Johnny murphy
12/23/2016 06:15:28 am
Hi Enda, keep up the faith, it's a marathon, small steps, everything cannot be solved at once. Really enjoying the blog. Safe sailing. Johnny
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Andy French
12/23/2016 06:19:36 am
Enda, you have many people following you, me included. Here's wishing you a safe passage to some easier times and that you get your computer problems sorted for Christmas. Inspiring to hear your news, stay safe.
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Anne Murphy
12/23/2016 06:39:04 am
It must be a little like the 'watched pot' Enda! ...seems to take ages and ages to boil..particularly heightened when one is on ones. ..is it 'ownsome' or 'lonesome '?!😂😂 Enda....it will come right for you. For everyone that sends you good wishes...you can be sure there are many many more who are cheering you on quietly in their own way. Now...keep right on to the end of the... (road!)...race! Maith Thu!
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Janet Kennedy
12/23/2016 07:23:18 am
Visibility few feet - could be worse, few inches! Wind dropped to 15 - could be worse 10! Isolation, nope we are all with you! Electronic wizardry f*d - who needs it! Low on food - everyone's on a diet before Xmas! Generator f*d - mere inconvenience! Spinaker difficult - you middle name is Hercules? WW1 ocean party - no, someone always leaves early! Slainte Enda. You are awesome!
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Stephen Black
12/23/2016 07:25:34 am
Cheers Enda! I am sure I speak for all of your supporters we are all right there with you! I find inspiration in you - your humor - and how you are navigating this endeavor. Stay strong and enjoy - there is an old rowing quote that I've found strength in, maybe you will too. "The challenge is from within. The opponent is yourself. The reward is private. And the victory is having met the challenge." It is here that you already have won Mate. Merry Christmas. Steve
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Tom Hosty
12/23/2016 07:42:19 am
Enda, the Claddagh Ring Wearers Association is with you all the way! Here in western France we are enjoying a little gentle fog too, and waiting for your return.
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Antonia O'Rourke
12/23/2016 04:51:16 pm
Listening to the wind whistle and pound like an Irish scrum at the bricks and mortar walls that I feel comfortable and safe in right now, with my family, safe and in arms reach, only crystallises the excitement, fear, bravery and absolute respect and admiration I have for you Enda O'Coineen for your mad persistence in doggedly seeing this bloody thing through.
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Dave Sheridan
12/24/2016 02:47:35 am
I saw your boat moored a few times at the entrance to Dun Laoghaire marina. It's just staggering to see how that inanimate looking object, driven by your determination, a great shore team and some Irish luck, is so alive and halfway round the planet.
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