Matilda did not have enough for this summer, so I untied the lines and took her out for a little single-handed adventure to the island of Milos about a week ago. I started on Tuesday the 22nd at 6 pm and sailed through the night. A constant F5 was responsible for a fast passage to the island of Milos. 112 NM in 19 hours. I spent the next day exploring the island on a scooter. Since I wanted to be back on Monday next week, I left again on Friday in the morning ignoring the other sailor’s warnings because of the bad weather (the forecast was N F7). It was a relatively rough close hauled passage to Poros which I reached about 12 hours later. Average wave height was about 1.5m but some waves were double that height. The next day on the way to Cap Sounion the conditions were similar. I anchored in the bay underneeth Poseidon’s temple at Cap Sounion. The wind increased during the night and it was blowing at min F7 in the morning. After lifting the anchor, I rounded the cape and headed north into Makronisos channel which I believe was a mistake. Course and wind were both N and it was now blowing at F8. Because of the very steep waves, I was just making under 3 knots whilst running under engine at 2400 rpm. At the north exit of Makronisos channel, the conditions worsened and the waves became bigger, steeper and very confused. It was almost impossible to keep the boat on course and I was seriously considering turning back and going into Lavrion harbour for shelter. Conditions became better after a while and I finally decided to proceed. I arrived in Almyropotamos in the evening. It is amazing how you get used to the situation but I learned that it does not really make sense to fight against the weather in such conditions. If something goes wrong you may have a serious problem, especially if you are sailing solo. Anyway, the last day was perfect sailing at F5 and a moderate sea state and compensated for the “punishment” of the previous day.
I compiled a little video for those interrested:
That was a nice little film, the one showing the voyage to Milos. I am the husband of Christiane, in case you don’t know. I am really envious, because my family and i used to sail with a Halberg Rassy 352 many times decades back, when i was a kid. She is such a nice and sturdy ship, really able to do heavy weather. She is not very speedy, though. But i always felt safe. Safe sailing also in future, maybe one day i can come and join for a trip. Lothar
Hi Lothar, yes the HR352 is a nice little boat. I had sailed in similar conditions with a Bavaria 36 and it felt completelly different. Thanks for your comment!
Evan, just looking at your super videos makes me feel seasick! No way would I ever be able to do that! Love the dolphins BTW!
RE; your English? Excellent, some minor spelling mistakes and grammatical errors , but who cares anyway? The messages you transmit are all about sailing and those who love your sport/hobby will enjoy them…Greetings, Les & Liz
Hi Les, if you ever join on a little sailing trip we have to meke sure it won’t be blowing with more than force 3 :-D