After 35 days at sea we are now entering our 6th week afloat, it seems amazing that we have come so far and that we are about to cross the nominal half way point. In terms of days remaining we hope that now we are heading directly for Antigua that we will complete at least 50 miles per day and this means another 25-27 days at sea. It is great to see the days rowed so far surpass the days we estimate it will take to the finish as this gives a real feeling that we are truly making progress. Our current estimated arrival date is 5-7th March weather depending).

The wind continues to push us West to Antigua and gradually the waves have built to follow them. This morning we had follwing waves/swell of 12-14 feet from the East however travelling under that we had a large rolling ocean swell running from North to South. This large ocean swell lifts the boat up 10-15 feet each time and when on the top it feels as if you are sitting in top of the world as your visible horizon has doubled, it reminds me of sitting on top of a small rolling hill looking down into the valley (trough) below. These swells are approx. 75 metres apart and are generated by bad weather to our North.

Fish update – we are still being followed by our Tuna friends and this morning saw them formation swimming as they surfed along side by side inside one of the bigger waves. I was also startled when one of the smaller fish came flashing through the water at speed under my oar then leapt cleanly 5 foot out of the water landing with an undignified splosh. Several times a day we have seen this happen but never so close to ther boat.

health update – On the whole I am very well, feet are nearly healed and causing no problems. I am starting to get sore knuckles when i wake from swelling in the joints similar to Lia. Massage at the start and finish of each shift seems to work well even though they don’t effect my rowing. We have lots of stuff top treat it on board should it become necessary.

Beard update -coming along nicely now starting to curl towards the corners of the mouth and thanks to regular beard wearer Colin Bullock who suggests this is an ideal place to store little bits of food for eating later or by which the taste of a particularly good meal can be tasted some hours later (Yummh!)

Tomorrows row is dedicated to our sponsors Warning Systems GB Ltd who provide warning sirens for industrial premises and flood schemes. The sirens they use are that large that if we were to mount one on the boat it would turn over! Many thanks to Guy Chilvers for his support. Guy, sorry we weren’t able to coincide with your visit to Antigua hope you both had a great time!

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