Thursday 26th July '12

At 09:51 hrs The Kipper updated us as follows:

'Morning, having motored all night in a very light westerly wind (draught more than wind) we are now about 30 miles from Almeria.  We are considering keeping going to Torrevieja (another 24 hours from this eveninng).  We could then meet up with Dano and Viv (aka Alan & Vivien).  Will keep you posted.'

Given the report of the light wind conditions, The Sribe enquired if the nasty, scheming, vicious little sail had been given it's freedom.  The report at 15:04 hrs was as follows:

'That recalcitrant sail has been kept safely buttoned up in the forepeak.  Had a couple of problems during the night, the engine almost died, appeared to be cured  after I bled the system.  It died again at lunchtime and wouldn't clear so sailed into Puerto de Aguadulce.  On the approach to the harbour tried the engine, it started and ran correctly.  Will change all filters on oil and try again.  A frustrated Kipper.'

The Kipper sent this picture of the windscoop working it's magic - present from The Scribe prior to leaving the UK









By 20:16 hrs, The Kipper wrote:

'Job done with able assistance from the crew-of-two.  Engine restarted first time and sounded like an engine should!  See what tomorrow can throw at us!'

By 20:19 hrs it seemed things had changed...

'Will be working on fuel system changing filters this evening, keeping fingers crossed it all works.  Will have a 24 hour run up to Torrevieca to try it out.'

At 18:37 hrs on Friday 27th July they were well on their way again:

'Left port this morning at 09:30, decided to give the engine a good run before crossing to Ibiza.  So the wind decided to blow in our favour for once, had a brilliant sail, maintained 6 - 7 knots all day.  Wind has now died off to 8 knots so can now try out the engine.  Heading for Torrevieja, should arrive by about 10:00 in the morning.'

At 19:46 hrs, The Kipper wrote:

'Violence has broken out on board...fly killing is back on the agenda!  Where do they come from?  I know where they go...fly hell!!!'

If anyone reading this might know of a good entomology professor who could help with this problem, could you put them in touch with The Kipper.  Thank you kindly. 

That was the last update from The Kipper and the crew-of-two, hopefully they should be nearing Ibiza and will soon be ashore exploring the sights and sounds...and no doubt, the bars...

Wednesday 25th July '12

19:46 hrs and I have just received a rather disturbing text from Little Bobbie D:

'Scribe.  Update on crew injuries.  Steve, broken shoulder - 'Release spinnaker pole Kipper...NOT THAT FAST!' Kipper, sore hip carrying 50 litres of water from Morrisons.  Steve, knee cartilage from carrying 2cwt of food from Morrisons.  Kipper, knee ligaments, falling off lump of 4x2 meant to be boarding ramp.  Steve and Kipper, sore thumbs x 4, suburn x 1, sore neck x 2, sprained knee x 1.  Mental despair x 2.  Fixing grating all bloody weekend and not a word of thanks.  Kipper sore finger, pushed a couple of buttons.  Anon.  PS.  Bobbie D ok ish.  Little Bobbie D makes me sound like bloody 50's rocker, which clearly I'm not.'

The Scribe has several observations to make.

1) They have been warned on more than one occasion not to let that spinnaker out of the bag but do they heed advice...do they heck as like!  Last time it showed it's ugly face on deck, it almost caused a mutiny and now it has managed to take out one of the crew-of-two.  Not only that but the sneaky little sail has managed to transfer the blame onto the beleagured Kipper.  I await an update on progress although I have a sneaking suspicion in this instance, 'broken shoulder' may be defined as minor graze and a bit of a bruise.  I need blood and bone poking through skin before I am overcome with concern. 

2) The Scribe wishes she had shares in Morrisons...

3) The Scribe also wishes she had shares in Ralgex, Voltarol surgical knee supports and Valium

4) There is never any excuse for sunburn - deal with it!

5) The Scribe thinks perhaps the author of said text might have had his buttons pushed...

6) Boarding ramp probably fine - no doubt an alcohol induced fall...

and finally, as for the complaint about the tag, 'Little Bobbie D' - a little late to complain about it now don't you think and I couldn't possibly comment about the 50's rocker thing as I am far too young!!

I can only guess from this that they are still in Gibraltar and are probably being measured for bathchairs and having a Stannah stair lift fitted in the companionway.

At 21:15 hrs, The Kipper sent the following update:

'Yes, left Gib this morning on route for Cartegena.  I will leave Bobbie D  to make up stories for you!  Whilst I was away, the crew-of-two worked like proper crew, did the shopping, went to the bar, repaired the cockpit grating (problem job), went to the bar, cleaned the boat, went to the bar.  That was about it.  Had an admission today, they need a few days to dry out!!!  Still, the passage should sort that out.  As you know, yesterday did the tourist bit, walked up hill and down dale for miles up and in the Rock.'

At 21:31 hrs, Steve sent the following update:

'Hi Scribe.  Got the blog update  from The Kipper.  He failed to mention the heroic work done by Scabby Crew in his absence!  Re-stock.  Full clean.  Extensive repair to cockpit grate, including battle with epoxy!  Not to mention Olympic drinking whilst cheering on Wiggins in The Tour De France!'

One question remains...what on earth did they do to the cockpit grate!!! 

Little Bobbie D is now silent which means the other two have either locked him in the forepeak and confiscated his phone or he's sulking because it's too late to change his name.  I may have to send Julie out there to take him in hand. 

Tuesday 24th July '12

When last we met, The Kipper had returned home for the birthday party leaving the crew-of-two to fend for themselves.  You will be pleased to hear that The Kipper has now returned to Yacht Petra and has no doubt joined the crew-of-two in the bar. 

They have been enjoying the sights in Gibraltar and have sent the following pictures for our entertainment:

A nice picture of the crew-of-two!

This picture was entitled 'Bob with his pensioner friends'.  I don't think the gentleman with the walking stick has any intention of letting the suspicious looking man in the blue tee shirt anywhere near his lady friends. 

A rare opportunity of seeing The Kipper and the crew-of-two in the same shot.  Note the sticking tape on the starboard side and midships of little Bobbie D's sunnies.  Allegedly broken by The Kipper in a fit of pique but we have no evidence so the Mighty CPS have ruled out any form of prosecution. 

I presume this is a picture of the marina in Gibraltar but I won't swear to it.  This picture was very helpfully entitled 'marina next to a runway'.  One assumes it must be rather a noisy berth.

And finally....just incase anyone had forgotten that this blog is actually about three blokes who have gone sailing...

A picture of the harbour in Rota - at least this one has water and boats in it...

The last update of the evening from The Kipper states that they are leaving in the morning for either Cartegena or Ibiza: the weather will decide.  

Saturday 21st July 12

The cew-of-two have been left on their lonesome in sunny Gibraltar - can anyone else in the class see a potential problem with that?

Sure enough it seems that since The Kipper left they have been hard at work...down the pub.  At 20:31 hrs they sent the following:

'Evening Scribe.  Scabby crew here!  Shabby night last night.  Shopping done this morning then back in the bar by 4 pm.  You can tell we are unsupervised!'

I have tasked them to send a picture of one of the famous Gibraltar apes - at least that will mean a long walk to the rock and they will be out in the fresh air for a couple of hours.  Unfortunately, they missed the point and it has been suggested that little Bobbie D will be suited up. 

I am suddenly reminded of a time when Captain Jack Aubrey RN had to dress up in a bear skin whilst accompanied by his friend naval surgeon Stephen Maturin (fluent in Spanish so naturally Jack had to be the bear) in order to evade escape while crossing Spain. 

If you haven't yet read the Patrick O'Brien books may I humbly suggest you go out and buy them; start at the beginning of the set and don't come crying to me if you get totally hooked and can't put them down.

Friday 8th July 12

Hang out the bunting, put the beers on  ice, heralding trumpets step forward...The Kipper and the Crew-Of-Two have finally made it to Gibraltar.  Update from The Kipper as of 08:02 this morning reads:

'Arrived Gibraltar!  20 knots at times but smooth passage through the Straits.  Unfortunately no photos; it was dark, may have some later of the dawn - now for breakfast.'

Congratulations passed on from The Scribe.

The Kipper has no time to dawdle about drowning in self adulation about finally making it into the Med - he now has a plane to catch so he can be home for the eldest son's birthday this weekend. 

He duly arrived at the airport for his flight home and even this proved to be problematic.  I don't think there is a career as a tour guide beckoning for The Kipper; it seems that any travel plans he carefully puts in place go completely awry be it by weather or some kind of aviation disruption. At 21:25 hrs a somewhat grumpy Kipper sent the following:

'Arrived Gib Airport by 17:00 went through to the departure lounge ready for my flight at 19:40 hrs.  Then told, flight delayed, still here not due to take off till 00:30 and arriving back at Luton at 02:30.  Bloody hell, I'm knackered.'

The Scribe sincerely hopes that given the effort to get to this party, it will rival a banquet fit for Her Majesty. 

Thursday 19th July cont...

This episode deserved a little entry all of it's own. 

The Kipper and the crew-of-two planned to leave for Gibraltar today and this morning, that plan was looking pretty good.  At 08:40 hrs he wrote:

'Weather checked, tides checked, ready to go, can't get out of Rota Marina till it's too late!  Dah!  We'll be leaving at 16:00 to arrive in Gibraltar at breakfast time.'

At 11:56 hrs he sent the following little gem:

'Swear, swear, swear, just put water in the fuel tank!!!  Now draining the fuel tank!!'

Once again The Scribe felt it was a case of less said...

At 14:58 hrs an anonymous text was received from the crew-of-two:

'Dear Scribe.  Have you heard about this mornings fun and games.  It was a beauty.  Crew loyalty prevents me going into details but suffice to say it is the last time I take any stick about left handed bowlines or putting the teaspoons back in the drawer upside down.  Anon.'

Left handed bowlines???? 

As for upside down teaspoons - my, my, clearly The Kipper has been on good form. 

Now, in an attempt to be fair to The Kipper, his water filler cap and the fuel filler cap are dangerously close together on the aft deck. I seem to recall that the cap for the fuel rather helpfully has the word 'fuel' written across the top and the water filler cap stands slightly proud of the deck. It's an easy mistake to make, in broad daylight and bright sunshine, presumably sober, wearing his glasses and clearly in no particular rush because they couldn't get out of the marina until 4 pm!! 

By 17:14 hrs they had resolved the problem and were underway again:

'We have left Rota, now on our way towards Cape Trafalgar where we will toast Nelson and then onto Gibraltar.  Should be there before breakfast.'

Mediterranean sea, here they come...

Thursday 19th July 12

I left The Kipper and the crew-of-two safey tucked up in Rota and was ever hopeful that they would be successful in their attempts to get through the Straits before The Kipper heads back.  The Kipper sent the following update on Tuesday:

'A quick update, whilst in Ayamonte, got accosted by a Norwegian couple, him a 50 ish tobacco chewing spaced out live aboard whose life is a series of disasters and she is a 20 ish large breasted woman, far more sensible and pleasant.  Thought we had escaped them when we left: they just found us on Rota, eek!  If only we could move on!  Looks like the weather is looking good for us to go through the Straits on Thursday;  Just booked my flight back for Friday night to Luton.'

At this juncture The Scribe feels it would better to remain silent and pass no comment at all. 

The Kipper reported that it is very hot and so afternoon siestas seem to be the order of the day.  The Scribe felt it only fair to warn The Kipper that he might need to get his vest and his brolly out of storage before returning to the UK.  Despite being very hot, it was still extremely windy, blowing 25 kots from the east.  He and the crew-of-two were off to visit Cadiz and The Scribe was assured that it was purely going to be a cultural visit. 

Wednesday found them firmly settled in Cadiz and at 15:51 hrs, The Kipper reported:

'Wow, in Cadiz , it's soooooo hot, 95.  Energy saped out of me.  Sitting in the shade drinking water (!) waiting for the ferry to take us back to Rota.  Very nice ancient city, lots of narrow streets and pleasant little squares and old buildings.  An enjoyable day.  Checkig the weather when we get back, hope to be off for the Straits tomorrow'. 

Sunday 15th July '12

It's a little tricky to keep up with progress at the moment; The Kipper and his crew-of-two are making all speed towards Gibraltar.  On Friday evening, they were safely tucked up in Lagos and were carefully watching the weather to see if they might get the break they need to get safely through the Straits.

At 08:46 hrs on Saturday 14th July, The Kipper wrote:

'We are just preparing to leave for Ayamonte on the Portugese/Spanish border, just 60 miles.  Killing time really to give the Levanter time to go through.  Plan to move onto Rota, Cadiz Bay to stop whilst I return home for the party.  We need to be in port tonight to celebrate Bob D's retirement day.  It's official, his last day in the job today.  Wind has abated from 30 knots to 20 so shouldn't take long to knock off the miles.'

There followed texts to little Bobbie D wishing him hearty congratulations on his retirement and welcoming him back into the real world. 

By 23:21 hours that day they had arrived back on dry land and once again, I think the drink may have played a part in the messages received from The Kipper. His first update of the evening didn't confirm where they were or any details about how the sailing went, the weather conditions or anything even remotely like it.  No, he sent me a message to tell me that they were eating snails, anchovies and cheese shavings which he found to be a weird mix. 

I did later receive a text from him to let me know that they arrived at Atamonte at 21:00 hrs and had taken Bob D out for a retirement drink and tapas.  I didn't know that snails were to be found on a tapas menu. 

I'm thinking of booking The Kipper onto a photographic course.  Poor Steve looks like he has just eaten a dodgy snail and something strange has happened to little Bobbie D's eyes.

The next update from The Kipper was received at 16:28 hrs today (Sunday) and read as follows:

'We have another scorcher, not a cloud to be seen!  Left Ayamonte this morning with a NW F4 so very broad reaching.  Then, as the day warmed up, after an hour the wind started to drop off, tried getting the beast out of the bag but it completely scared off the remnants of what breeze there was.  It's now safely back in the bag.  Motoring towards Rota in Cadiz Bay, going to check the weather as we get closer to see if there will be time to get to Gibraltar before the Levanter sets in.  Game of the day is fly swotting!  Bobbie D is going berserk with a rolled up newspaper (The Times, if you please) and I'm at it with my right flip-flop, it's better than the left one!'

I fear they may have been drinking sea water!!!!

Interestingly, at 18:41 hrs, I received the following from an anonymous member of the crew-of-two:

'Scribe.  Kipper put kite up today.  40 mins huffing, puffing and titting about to get it up.  5 minutes later back down cos kite won't fly without wind.  Meanwhile did anyone notice the helm burning to a crisp while conning inch perfect course through mine field of crab pots.  Did they bugger.  Anon.
 p.s. In fit of pique Kipper broke my sun glasses just cos I 'poisoned' his tea with sugar.  Will be bloody more than sugar next time.'

I did warn them about that nasty little sail and I distinctly remember warning them not to let the damned thing out of the bag.  See what's happened now: they're tetchy, using extreme violence on flies, making threats to poison each other and breaking things.  It's a nasty little sail and I think they should court martial it, find it guilty, fill it's sail bag with rocks and throw it off the side immediately.

For those reading this who may either have signed up for or be thinking of taking any kind of sailing class, please note the clever and if I may say, appropriate use of that technical sailing expression, 'Titting about'.  Perfect usage here; seems to adequately sum up the situation and paints a very vivid word picture don't you think. 

The Kipper's final update of the evening was received at 22:29 hrs:

'Made it to Rota, Cadiz Bay, the kites well controlled, just thought it needed an airing and to be shown the sun!  The only violence was towards the pesky flies, don't know where they came from but they went to fly hell.  F7-8 in the Straits with rough seas, staying put till it blows through.'

The Kipper confirms that they are only about 70 miles from the Straits; I still have high hopes that they will get through before he has to fly home for the birthday party.  We'll know more tomorrow. 

Saturday 14th July 12

It was inevitable I suppose that the pressure of three chaps of a certain age all cramped together in a small boat would begin to take it's toll.  Of course none of them have said anything directly but it's the little hints and comments that point in that general direction.  Then again it could be that I am suddenly receiving snippits from the crew-of-two about life on board and so I have a snapshot of life  through different eyes. 

I believe that the following comments may have been written and sent when the crew had taken a drink in a local bar in Cascais... 

At 20:45 hrs on Tuesday 10th July, The Kipper wrote:

'Not sure that it's wise to give them (the crew-of-two) the opportunity to speak, they should be treated like mushrooms, kept in the dark and buried in poo (I cleaned that up a bit).  The are a very scabby crew; giving them the right to speak is unheard of!'

Flippin eck!  Sometimes his 'Traffic Inspector' roots have a habit of breaking through to the surface - bet he was a tough Guv'nor.  At this point, The Scribe did remind The Idiot  Kipper that she was recording all of this and is writing it ALL down. He rather sulkily replied,

'Yes I know, I've nothing more to say....ever!'

Like we all believe that.....

While The Kipper was sulking and no doubt worrying about what the crew-of-two might reveal, I received the following from Steve:

'It seemed like I was Billy No Mates with the other two glued to their phones but then the flood gates opened!  Bob D and I may need a minute for this!'

At 20:49 hrs he wrote:

'At last the worms can turn.  Hmm, where to begin.  In his defence...lots of good calls on the weather.  However, the re-telling of stories features highly....'

At which point The Scribe felt it only fair to point out that it was his age and that he (Steve) would be that old one day.

He continued:

'He is a tinkerer!  Forever adjusting things!  Course, sails coming up and telling us that we have done so much and have so much to go when it's bloody miles and...'

The Scribe quietly beginning to wish she'd never asked...

'...What we really wanted him to do was put the kettle on while he was down and decide what he wanted for dinner!  Other than that,  things are just fine and dandy'.

Note to self: remind The Kipper not to fiddle - don't know how many times we've had that conversation. 

The Scribe tried to be helpful in relation to the tea and dinner thing by pointing out that telepathy rarely works and sometimes one has to use a form of verbal communication. 

By the Wednesday morning there had been a new outbreak of peace and love aboard Petra and things were back to normal.  It seems that the night before may have had something to do with the consumption of beers and The Kipper's monster G&Ts.  They planned to take the day off to go and visit Lisbon.  At 10:20 hrs, The Kipper wrote:

'The G&T's are my normal concoction (lethal), maybe a little exuberant with the gin last night!  If I can get them moving, off into Lisbon today.'

Steve confirmed that they were indeed having a day off and apologised for the sudden end to his texts of the night before - confirmed once again that the Gin was the undoing of him.  No word yet from little Bobbie D; I sincerely hope that the Gin has't undone him completely.

I received an update at 23:46 hrs;

'Had a good day in Lisbon, walked our socks off, had a nice lunch and stopped for a couple of beers.  Got bak to Petra, a gale was blowing, been out to dinner in Cascais and finished the day off with coffee and brandy.  A very satisfactory day off.  Hoping to make the short hop, 52 miles to Sines in the morning; that is if the wind doesn't have a say in the proceedings.'

By 06:52 the following morning they were underway again.

'The wind has died to nothing this morning.  We are moving on to Sines about 50 miles.  Would like to get there before the very strong sea breeze gets going during the evening.'

Later that day I received the following:

'Arrived at Sines at 18:30 hrs, 9 hours down wind sailing at 6 knots in 15 to 20 knots of breeze.  Brilliant!  Now anchored off the beach, G&T's in hand whilst I prepare dinner in the sunshine.  Not seen a cloud all day!  A great day, tomorrow due to round Cape St Vincent, Wow!.'

From this we can deduce my dear Watson that they had rather a good days sailing today.  Still no word from little Bobbie D - I hope Julie has heard from him otherwise I fear the Custom of the Sea may have been invoked and the other two have eaten him!

At 21:24 hrs on the Thursday evening The Kipper wrote:

'Been looking at the weather for the Straits, an easterly laventer starts on Sunday morning which means we have to do 25 miles in 48 hours.  We must average 5 knots to get through or be held up for a week!  We are leaving at 06:00 hrs and going for it!!!'

At 07:51 hrs on the Friday morning, it was confirmed:

'We left Sines at 06:00 and are on the way making best speed.  Have a N5-6 forecast so should make good progress but it is Friday 13th!  I can't see us making it through the Straits before the stonking easterly arrives on Sunday but we are going to give it a good try.'

A somewhat grumpy text was received from Steve:

'The Kipper got us out of our pits at sparrows fart this morning.  Had to haul anchor before tea!  Now making a dash for the Straits.'

And finally, a text from little Bobbie D - He's alive!  Julie...pop that life insurance policy back in that drawer....

'Just realised why you have not recieved my texts.  The Kipper gave me the wrong number, the sly git!  Real number now saved and the true story will soon be revealed.'

At 20:27 hrs on Friday evening, The Kipper wrote:

'Hi, we had a fantastic sail down to Cape Vincente, where we turn left for Gibraltar.  Across the Algarve they have a F7-8 blowing so have given up trying to get the Gib by Sunday morning, have put into Lagos safe and well if a little wind swept.  Will check the weather and decide how we will proceed from here.  Will probably be looking for a flight back from Gibraltar area on Thursday for Roger's 40th birthday party.  Feel very disappointed at the moment as the weather is putting everything in our way at every step.  Still, we will suceed eventually.'

His thoughts were backed up in a later text received at 22:21 hrs that eveing:

'Just having dinner, it will not now be possible to get through the Straits by Sunday, we had 45 mins in hand to make the tidal gate off Cape Trafalgar, it's well gone now, but it's not chilly, in fact the opposite, we haven't had a cloud for 3 days now, sun hat and cream essential.  As we had 3-4 metre waves with a 7 (35 knots) of wind.  Top speed surf recorded was 11.2 knots!  Had to gybe to make the turn, all very exciting!  You will be pleased to hear we all survived.'

The Scribe was eager to know who was on the helm and reached such heroic speeds:

'Steve was the culprit, verified on the max speed on the log.  My max was a mere 10.4.  Don't know if luck had anythig to do with it, well, according to Steve  it wasn't.  I'm buring after the wind, sun and salt spray.  So much spray around we had to wear waterproofs, spray was being blown off the top of the waves, faces were burnig when we got in.  All very exciting but not the time to start a 150 mile passage.'

So ladies and gentleman, there you have it; our intrepid sailors are currently in Lagos.  I must confess that as I used to sped the majority of my geography class in the thickie corner, I thought Lagos was in Africa!  I have looked it up and see that it looks like a very nice place to visit so it could be worse for them. 

In the mean time, I'm off to book the three of them appointments to see a liver specialist and then book them into The Priory for detox.



Tuesday 10th July '12

The update I received today puts The Kipper and the crew-of-two at a place called Cascais, Portugal.  At 09:38 hrs the update was as follows:

'Just arrived at decision making point, my head hurts!  Go into Cascais, do washing etc, go on 60 miles to Sines or 120 miles to Faro or 200 miles to Cadiz?  Yesterdays forecast we agreed Cadiz, todays forecast: Cascais, N6 with a 2.5 metre swell predicted over night, we'll give that a miss thanks.'

News has also reached them about our continuing inclement weather and of course as a result, he just couldn't help mentioning that they were basking in sunshine.  He did also make mention that they have read the blog and that The Scribe would be 'taken in hand!' 

At 16:18 hrs, The Kipper wrote

'Arrived Cascais at 13:30 hrs, cleared away etc., boys doing the washing.  It's very warm here with a 20-25 knot wind blowing.  Sheduled to last till Thursday night.  Planning a day off in Lisbon tomorrow and then a day sail 60 miles to Sines on Thursday.  Friday it will be 200 miles to Cadiz, nearly in the Med!!!'

The Kipper says he will be holding on very tight to the reigns when they 'hoon' (technical sailing expression) their way through the Straits of Gibraltar.  I hope it lives up to it's billing and I look forward to hearing how they get on.  After that, it's all glorious Mediterranean sailing all the way to Greece.  Just think of all those lovely places they can stop for a little rest and relaxation.  I think I might have to remind The Kipper that he has to be back at some stage for work or at the very least to have a break from the idyll.  I'm pretty sure that once he has popped back for any period of time it won't be long before he will want tobe back aboard Petra enjoying the sun, the sea and the sailing. 

I haven't had much of an update from the crew-of-two: I have sent a little message to prompt them into giving me a picture of life on board from their side of things.  It's only fair that they get the chance to rat on  update me on life on board with The Kipper. 

Cascais isn't marked on this map but you can see Lisbon and that's close enough.  I look forward to hearing about the town and all it has to offer.  Further down the coast you will see Sines and then, Faro at the bottom.

This excerpt was taken from the website www.tripadvisor.co.uk:

An old fishermen's village Cascais has become an European Royalty Riviera in the second half of the XX Century and is now famous tourist destination for Portuguese and foreigners alike.
Famous residents have included: Juan Carlos, the King of Spain; King Carol of Romania; King Umberto of Italy and Brian Adams.

The number one attraction in Lisbon is the Oceanario de Lisboa - aquariam, lots of fish and water...perhaps not the best place for the chaps to visit. 

And so to Cadiz - they even put a little red star on this map because they obviously know that very soon they will be hosting The Kipper and the crew-of-two.

 

And then onto Cadiz where they will jump off for the ride through to Mediterranean Sea. 

Monday 9th July 12

I have been neglectful in my duties to show you where our intrepid band of travellers have stopped so far in this trip.  You will see Gijon and La Coruna up there on the North Coast of Spain and then...



...they visited Porto seen near the top of the page and now, they are on overnight passage to Lisbon (about three quarters of the way down the map for the idiots like me who failed geography at skool). 

It's all quite exciting really, not long to go before they hang a left and zoom towards the Strait of Gibraltar.  The Kipper sent a text this morning at 11:14 hrs saying:

'We had a delayed start this morning, office didn't open till 9 to turn on the water, also needed engine oil from town and most important, FOOD!  Left just after 10:00 hrs, now sailing towards Lisbon 170 miles south.  Another overnighter.  Sun shining, sun cream and silly hats on.'

The Scribe expressed concern about the fact that she might not fit all these place names on the back of their tee shirts but the clever Kipper suggested she think outside the box and maybe have two columns. Mr Smarty Pants!!

He also let slip that one of the things on the crew shopping list was Baby Powder.  Silly, silly Kipper...like I wasn't going to mention that in the blog!!  I won't however, mention the one who purchased said powder to save his blushes.  The Kipper didn't actually say what it was for - he told me to use my imagination so I can only assume there are some kind of 'chafe' issues afoot. 

Which reminds of a mantra I once heard when I was sailing that goes a little something like this:

Chafe is your enemy
Alcohol is your friend
Free stuff is good stuff
and
Don't do the.....

...actually, I think I'll leave that there.

I eagerly await the next update from Lisbon. 

Still Sunday 8th July

Word had filtered through to The Kipper that Andy Murray had reached the final of Wimbledon and he expressed his relief that he would miss the press hysteria that would surely follow.  He sent the following update at 21:03 hrs on Friday evening:

'Ola, just finishing an adventure into Spanish food!  Very successful I think.  We've had a small glass or two of wine with dinner, can't have a late one, we're off at 8 in the morning.'

Clearly The Kipper had consumed more than a small glass because he mentioned that The Scribe's company and sense of humour was missed.  She rectified the problem by sending the following:

'Two cannibals are eating a clown, one turns to the other and says, 'Does this taste funny to you?'

And this is the reply she received - verbatum -

'You silly cow!!! Where did that come from, a christmas cracker from 1950!!!'

It's amazing how brave a person can be when they are several hundred miles away: the Scribe reminded him that the pen is mightier than the sword.  He sent this back,

'By the way, one cannibal said can you pass the finger bowl, the other replied, sorry they've all gone!'

And so to get back to more sensible things; half way through this little verbal battle he mentioned that Porto is 200 miles south and that it the likely target.

At 07:13 hrs on Saturday morning The Kipper advised:

'Off again, south this time till the weather improves!'

At 19:51 hrs he updated on their progress:

'Today has been very difficult again.  Wind on the nose, heavy rain squalls, then when the wind did free off so we could make direct course it's died to nothing!"  Eventually we have reached our furtherst point west, 42.52'.8N 009.24'W off Cape Finisterre at 20:45 hrs.  Course now set for Porto Portugal 100 miles south.  Should be there by tomorrow (Sunday) night'.

He sent this picture which apparently shows the glorious sailing - and it does look good, deep blue sea, sunshine, shorts, sun hats and two of the grumpiest looking sailors I've ever seen.  I think the crew-of-two may have had words!!!

By 16:33 hrs today, I received the following from The Kipper:

'Have arrived at Porto for the night.  Sun shining northerly F5/6 blowing.  But it's warm, dry and the wind is in the right direction!  We'll see what tomorrow brings!!'

There followed some rather dull texts about tennis and then at 21:36 hrs The Kipper wrote:

'On passage last night so had a disturbed night so now off to bed.  Off in the morning at 8 for another overnighter subject to the wind dying a bit, blowing 25 knots at the moment.  Still fingers crossed.'

Sunday 8th July continuted

The crew-of-two looking like a pair of visiting sailors

A study in concentration...

I hope that by now, you will all realise that I like my detail so I have taken the time to analyse this picture.  Please note the FHM magazine across there on the starboard side and if you look really carefully, you'll notice that right next to it is a waterproof folder containing what appears to be back issues of FHM magazine: make of that what you will...chaps...and ladies.  On the table, we have what looks like a well thumbed copy of one of Robin (legend) Knox-Johnston's books, Steve is apparently embracing technology by using a Kindle - although all we can see is him holding it, doesn't mean he's actually managed to turn it on.  The Kipper's 'Black Rat' mug is there on the table and if you look really closely, you'll see the little bear that Christine and Lisa gave to The Kipper before he left the dock at Chatham.  How sweet is that!!!

Little Bobbie D on galley duties - sharp knife if one hand and a gin & tonic within easy reach. 

And finally for tonight, a picture of Steve at the chart table pretending to look busy. 


 

Sunday 8th July 2012

The Kipper and the crew-of-two arrived in La Coruna late evening on Wednesday 4th July. At 22:20 hrs I received the following from The Kipper:

'Just a quick message to say just arriving at La Coruna.  Been a long hard slog, will tell all in the morning'.

This was followed by the promised update at 13:16 hrs on Thursday 5th,

'Slept all morning, now out for breakfast.  Took 2 days to do 180 miles!  First day no wind then fluky wind generally from the direction we were gong in.  30 more miles west then it's south all the way.  Moored up in the marina, our neighbours are the cruise ship Azura; blocks out the daylight!  Town is full of Mancunians and like Manchester, it's raining.'

The Scribe did remind him that it shouldn't be south ALL the way unless they have some kind of hankering to see lots of penguins. 

By 19:39 hrs that evening the following decision had been made:

'Staying another day, weather is crap (technical sailing expression) again.  Hope to get down the Portugese coast in 2 hits weather dependant of course.  Probably stop in Porto, Port needs to be replenished apparently'.

And now for the pictoral report from La Coruna,

Nice view

Big statue!

Statue with palm tree growing out of the top of her head

This years entrants in the sexy legs competition

 More to follow...

Tuesday 3rd July '12

When last we met, The Kipper and the crew-of-two had made it to a little place called Gijon on the Spanish coast and they were sleeping following their glorious sail across from Benodet.

I waited eagerly for tales from Gijon but it seems that the place is shrouded in mystery and will remain so until another group of intrepid adventure seekers moor up on their pontoons. 

The next update was received this morning at 10:33 hrs following my demands to know where they were and what they were up to:

The Kipper wrote:

'Have tried to send a load of photos to you but they won't go, will try when ashore.  We are now motoring along the north coast towards La Coruna, no wind but want to make up some time.  Sun is shining, its warm, all wearing shorts, spray hood down!  We're getting there.'

Since then I have recieved the promised pictures and I felt it only fair to share them with my small but loyal band of followers. 

This is The Kipper changing the courtesy flag: note the blue seas, blue skies, white fluffy clouds, full mainsail...am I jealous...HELL YES!!

I have made a note to speak to the crew-of-two because I distinctly remember giving them strict instructions about letting The Kipper wander up to the foredeck on his own.  I see no signs of a harness or anyone standing by to ensure that he doesn't trip and fall off or worse still, try to carry out any chores on the foredeck.  Kippers have a tendency to get lost or be found wandering around aimlessly with a glazed expression in their eyes if they are allowed forward of the mast.  It'll all end in tears...

I love this picture! 

Bobbie D on the helm doing 7 or 8 knots the little show-off.  He does look like he is enjoying himself.  I love the hat and the look; sort of boy scout meets boat jumble!

I think this picture was taken on Saturday; the weather looks glorious, the sailing looks pretty good and yet...full oilskins are called for.  Must still be a touch chilly.

That's better, order and calm have been restored to the Universe: The Kipper is back where he belongs, starboard side aft on the helm. 

Still full oilskins and Musto snug...

Definitely chilly...

The Crew-Of-Two...


Doesn't look like there is much breeze out there...







Now.  I can't be held accountable for the following pictures, The Kipper sent them so it's all his fault...

I give you...the on-watch port side look out...

To be fair, he is sitting in the most comfortable seat in the house when on a starboard tack so it's no wonder the poor wee thing drifted off there for a second.  And lest we forget, he is probably still recovering from that near fatal attack of man-flu.

Have you guessed who it is yet?  I couldn't make up my mind if it was The Kipper or Steve.

I'm just gonna leave that there and you can decide for yourselves. 

Bless him! Clearly The Kipper has been working the crew-of-two to near exhaustion; I just hope someone thought to check for a pulse...

Monday 2nd July 12

The Kipper and the crew-of-two finally left Benodet as planned on Saturday morning.

The Scribe received the following text at 07:34 hrs

'The weather at last has relented and given us an opportunity to cross to Spain, left about 30 minutes ago and will be out of contact till Thursday probably earlier but will text on arrival.'

At 06:18 hrs today (Monday) The Scribe received the following:

'Morning, we are just arriving in Gijon, Spain after a very quick crossing of Biscay, wasn't expected to get here until tonight.  150 and 140 miles a day sailing.  When I let you know we were leaving I got the days confused, I thought it was Monday not Saturday!  We've had some brilliant fast sailing and had dolphins (AFD) playing around us on the way over. Was tempted at 0300 hrs this morning to turn right for Corunna but wind died off so decided on Gijon.  When we've sorted everything, a shower and sleep is called for.'

Gijon is on the North coast of Spain and is decsribed as being in the Asturias region.  It is described by a gentleman named Danial Clifford (www.travelingingspain.com) as being a mid-sized city of some 270,000 residents.  The town is reported to have been around for 3000 years and began as a fishing village.  It is now an important busy port on the Atlantic coast.  It appears to be a popular tourist spot with quaint cobblestone streets and an historic fishing village named Cimadevilla is worth a visit.  It also boasts a sculpture named the Eligio del Horizonte (Praise of the Horizon) placed in 1990 at Cerro de Santa Catalina.  Not exactly Michael Angelo's David but to each their own. 

 LATITUDE: 43º 34' 00'' N
LONGITUDE: 05º 42' 00'' W

PORT OF GIJÓN

Taken from (www.alquiler-directo.com)

The marina of Gijón, along with its numerous facilities, includes an historical building (rehabilitated "rula", or market of the old port of fishermen) in which the most important and essential services are centralized , such as Customs, Capitana and customer service, which means a greater comfort and effectiveness for the traveller. Integrated right in the center of the city, nearby you can find all the services that a large city can offer.
I eagerly await the next update from The Kipper and the crew-of-two once they have caught up on their beauty sleep; I wonder if they are know that Spain won some sort of Association Football competition on Sunday - if not I don't think it will be long before they find out.