8/11/12 - Lord Nelson

Day 21 8th Nov
Wow! What a momentous moment. We have finally sailed off from Gran Canaria bound for the New World. No engines. Down to just the stern line, Fore Topsail set and from my privileged position as Bowman in the DOTI boat, I could see the majestic Lord Nelson in glorious sunshine & hear the crew calling 2,6 HEAVE as the Fore Course was set and the stern line let go and we are off!! The significance of the moment only occurred to me as it was happening – and I hadn’t got a camera on me! But hopefully website followers at home can see on the tracker and see us sailing away for West Africa then South America. Having been to Columbus’ House yesterday in the old town of Las Palmas the incredible similarities of us leaving now seem more poignant. He docked here for stores and to fix a broken rudder before embarking on a ground breaking voyage. We replenished our stores, eventually fixed our radar and are off on the JST epic to places we’ve never been to before. At least we know they are there. We now have a beautiful sight of all Fore 4 square sails set, the topsail and t’gallant on the main and as I write the new Main Royal is being teased out. Having made 3.5 knots in the harbour we are now racing southwards at 5 knots We have all enjoyed the chance to get ashore, swim in warm sea and last night made the most of another day’s delay to all go together to The Wok Chinese restaurant. Brilliant fresh food cooked in front of your eyes, as much as we could eat – for 13 euros.



Sue on Aft Starboard Watch.