Now here is the issue – going South is very wind dependent as unlike north bound tracks which are well suited to the Trade winds, heading home is a constant battle against the very thing that has gotten us here. These trades are meant to ease sometime soon but the more North one is the later this happens so there lies the conundrum. The way the weather looks now, we will likely be stuck at Lizard for a couple of days then we will go for a run back here. If we were to go further North ( and I really did want to get to the Tip of Cape York) the deeper this conundrum becomes. All a bit disappointing (as retreat is not one of my strong points) but at the same time, I believe a prudent call as things stand. Now, I did say I’d offer some explanation on this turn around decision so here it is:
The original plan was a very grand one with an Australian circumnavigation in mind. To be honest, soon after starting this trip it became clear that a bigger boat was needed for a trip of this magnitude as the extra size adds a few precious knots to cruise speed, increased tolerance to sea and swell and a considerable increase in carrying capacity, allowing for more stores and hence longer duration of autonomy. The other thing I would need, is at least two fully competent crew, to man a 24hrs watch cycle. Other factors are ‘home front’ specific. Without detail, suffice it to say that a number of domestic dimensions are stating to bite so put all this together and you have the rationale.
Still the trip home, while likely to be a little tough, will be made that little bit easier by the experience and expertise we have gain thus far so I plan to enjoy the return as much as the outbound adventure and will keep up the blog accordingly.
Anyway, maybe I’ll get another shot at this in the future – we’ll see!
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