It is now 7am and we are getting our first ocean sunrise in many months. We finally got out of Auckland at noon on Wednesday. It was bittersweet leaving NZ, not knowing if or when we shall return. Our first afternoon and night have been very mild with light winds and relatively smooth seas. The boat is running perfectly after resting for 6 months and having a great deal of scheduled maintenance.
It was weird leaving Ann on the dock as we headed out, but our passage crew is doing well. I actually got 8 hrs sleep the first night. Having a 3rd person capable of standing watch makes the nights go quickly as we each have only 4 hrs 'ON' and 8 hrs 'OFF'.
Forecast is for seas to build today to 6' – 8', but they should be on our beam and the ride should be good.
Eric
