We have just over "one thousand, four hundred and forty six nautical miles" to Cape Horn. I think 1446nm sounds better! We are cruising at ten knots with the wind coming over our Port quarter. We had hoped at this stage to dive further South however the direction of the wind is forcing us to take a more Easterly line. Preparations are under way for our arrival in Port Stanley so with all this Easting and the talk of "when we get there" is gaining momentum.
As the crow fly's is just one of so many nautical terms we still use today. This saying came from the early mariners who would take on board a murder of crows letting them live in a cage three quarters of the way up the mast. Hence the term "crows nest". Whenever there was any doubt as to the direction of the nearest terra firma a crow would be released. Around and around the ship it would fly but eventually, much to the pleasure of the "lost Captain" the crow would head to the nearest land. All of these nautical terms are available in good ships book stores or of course on the internet. Take the time to read through a few. You will be amazed just how many we use in modern times. Some are quite amusing and will bring a smile to your face.
The weather, particularly today has been simply superb. Nothing like the stories we read and hear about the ferocious Southern Ocean. The sun is shining so we are all taking the opportunity to dry out our belongings. She looks a little like a Chinese laundrey from time to time and today is no exception. Never the less it is crucial that every time there is the slightest hint of warmth we dry out as much as we can.
One thing I have learnt over the years is that whatever you suggest or mention about the weather the opposite will happen within hours. It's best to say nothing and the enjoy the status quo.
So I am thinking that soon the wind will blow the milk out of our tea.
51.40S 107.58W
04/02/2009 23.25 GMT
Mark McRae
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