Author: Bernd Page 2 of 39
The final weather routing is done, all systems checked, mind and body are ready to throw the lines for another adventure on the ocean.
It will be a course with approximately 85% time spent between close hauled and close reach, 10% time sailed under broad reach and 5 (!) hours under engine on the final miles – all subject to weather changes. Well, not sailors’ most preferred scenario but a good opportunity to explore limits in various aspects while still remaining in the comfort zone – hopefully. 
I am excited, look forward to this passage and hopefully catching some leftovers from the strawberry moon!
Fair winds…
Based on valuable recommendations from Elke & Ulli skippering SY Christina, I had to check out two locations: One german driven bakery and one farmer making and selling his own goat cheese – both having remarkable stories and products to offer. Together with a dry local white vine, another sugar day has come along…
The location of the farm required to go 2.5km off-road but apart from some short corrugated stretches the Roubaix 
handled it very well.
Fair winds…
Finca Machinda is in the village of Tao and run by some very friendly young chaps, who grow fruits and vegetables. Their range is impressive and the goods are being sold straight to the end customer. I believe farming has a great potential on this island despite the fact that soil and climate are challenging but there are many areas where cultivation is happening and goods are being offered on local markets or directly at farmers’ houses.
It was an initial fight against the headwinds today, 20kn plus gusting, almost blowing you off the bike but I had to get this done. There was a cracking noise on the crankshaft, which needed some attention. I suspected the pedal’s bearing but that was wishful thinking. A fracture in the right crankshaft was detected by the professionals in the Shimano Service Center in San Bartholomé. I was surprised and fortunate. They had everything in stock and fixed it on the spot – amazing service! Great ride.
This morning my planned departure date was still set to 14th June until I did the daily weather check. It revealed the two main weather models being in total contradiction. This disagreement is rare but cannot be ignored by all means. Although patience has never been my strength, I am slowly getting better on this. Purto Calero on Lanzarote helps me on this point as there is no reason to leave this gorgeous place except the desire getting back onto the ocean.
Fair winds…
Following some nice dinner yesterday on SY Christina, I went home late (!?) for a HAM radio session scheduled with SY Geronimo being out at sea on the approach to Lisboa. Suddenly the fireworks kicked in…Viva Canarias!
Fair winds…