We're going on six days beating into the wind like this - never above a 50 degree wind angle - and I'm only now fully appreciative of how easy downwind sailing is. I remember our Pacific crossing last year as a series of terrifically starry nights, afternoons spent snacking on popcorn in the cockpit, and my concern about uneven tan lines. But we've learned highly valuable lessons and tactics on this trip that only come with experience. Even now, as I'm scowling at the waves and cursing the wind, I'm not sure I'd trade these conditions for that reason alone. It's hard, but it's also satisfying. At least it is now, within 100 miles of Raivavae.
Somehow today's combination of wind and waves has been especially taxing on the rig. Add to that the waves we're smashing into, continually launching bucketsfull of water all over the deck, and the 45 degree lurching slant on which try to function while we make coffee, cook, use the toilet... well, it's a far cry from the romantic image of sailing the South Pacific most of us conjure up.
Anyway, it's only comfort and I imagine we'll be pretty comfortably anchored in the lagoon by this time tomorrow. I feel like a kid on Christmas eve tonight!
At 28-May-16 4:01 AM (utc) our position was 24�37.95'S 149�17.98'W
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