Rusalka spent the night trying to swim upstream, with a strong current (over 3kts) against her. It made for very slow progress. All night the winds were strong and Rusalka was pounding and bashing her way into the wind at 6-7kt through the water, but barely 3kt over ground. It was a very uncomfortable night for all.
This morning, with everyone feeling quite exhausted, Alex decided to hove to again for some rest. After 5 hrs they set off again under sail, heading into the waves at an angle. Wind and waves have eased slightly and they are approaching the end of the adverse current, now only 2kts against them!
They’re still about 200nm from Newcastle, hoping to pick up speed, but expecting to get in very late Saturday or early Sunday. I’ve decided to be on the dock to meet them, so tomorrow’s post will be delayed until later in day when I arrive in Newcastle.
Statistics
For 24hrs to midday, Fri. 13 April
DMG 58nm
Distance 128nm
