These squalls are fantastic as long as they don’t carry thunder and lightning. We got two of them today and now know, how to handle and make fun out of them. After we identified them, either visually or on the radar, we determine with the help of the radar the magnitude and itensity of the upcoming intermezzo. It takes approximately between fifteen min and one hour until they arrive at the stern of the boat. They move from east to west, are faster than our boat speed and will therefore at one point in time overtake the boat providing the rain and extra wind. Rain and wind gusts depend on the magnitude and intesity of the squall.
We saw the second one today long time before it arrived. I had the shampoo ready but again, did not make it because of the intensity of the squall. With the wind gusting close to 40kn, I preferred to stay close to the steering wheel although the Hydrovane kept the course with a blink. I decided not to reef the 110% foresail (main not unfurled at all) and rather loosen the reins and let the lady fly. She did! 11kn top speed surfing down the waves.
Race or break came to my mind for a fraction of a second but before I got deeper into this brainwave the lady conspiciously indicated to me: Leave it! I did, with the result of great pleasure for both of us surfing the waves again and again unisono with Santiano blasting at full volume out of the cockpit loud speakers. Sailing at its best! After 20 to 30 minutes the spectacle was over.
Fair winds…
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