Don't race the RORC 600 if you do not like port tack! Leaving St. Maarten to starboard it was a perfect early morning sail. Fabrizio had the pleasure to clear the rocky NW point of the island before heading to Tintamare. Tintamare was left to starboard and we started our 160 nm port tack upwind leg. Wind is quite regular, never less than 13 kts and, in the afternoon, often just below 20 kts.
Genoa and full main still power us full speed in a wide upwind sailing. Speed is seldom below 12 kts. High Spirit Team is doing a good job, alternating helm and main sail trimming with the rest of the Italian racing team.
Tactical call suggested to pass leeward to Montserrat. It looks like the rest of the fleet passed windward. This morning Nefertiti was ahead of us 12 nm, now she is only about 5.
Montserrat west coast is quite amazing. The famous eruption of Soufrière Hills Volcano destroyed part of the island in 1995. The new land, into the cone of destruction, is quite stunning. Our windward passage granted us an hour of smooth sailing in strong breeze and flat water.
We are heading to Les Saintes (Guadeloupe), when race will be decided by how well the fleet passes the massive wind shadow of the island. Francesco just started eating with the excuse of getting ready for the passage, which will start in less than 3 hour.
Fleet tracking system censors each yacht passage in order not to give any advantage to followers. Do not worry if we disappear from RORC 600 tracking system for a while.
A little note about the hard racing experience on Cape Arrow: have you ever been trimming genoa while chef is offering you fresh watermelon or sandwiches? Have you ever waken up during the race with crew offering you a warm toast? Last dinner was lasagne, tonight we are looking forward to learn what Sophie has prepared for us!
Cheers!!
PS: today a family of dolphins played on our bow for 10 minutes just to celebrate St. Maarten rounding!
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