Here we are, leaving the Azores behind us with Sao Miguel island 30 miles to our starbord. Even though the islands of this archipielago are quite spread apart, sailing through them is almost like going down the Chesepeake Bay, with lights everywhere in the horizon as well as heavier merchant traffic.
We left Faial Island heading North in order to go through the Sao Jorge Cannal, with Pico Island to our starboard and the Sao Miguel Island opposing it. Even though we were unable to see the top of the Pico due to heavy clouds, the evening light through these clouds caused a espectacular view of the island.
Once again, a great number of dolphins traveled along with us at the same speed but not as close to our hull as before.
Just after sunset we spotted a capsized boat a mere 10 meters away from us. This caused some tension aboard as to how to react to the situation. Whether to turn around and look for any people? Call the coast guard? and some (Borja) wanted to turn around to check to see if the engine was still there to take home with us. Please be aware that this vessel was no larger than 15ft and from its conditions it looked like it had been capsized for several weeks.
The night was cold, rough, and not very comfortable, with a constant NE wind that has forced us to sail upwind, and moderate waves made it quite difficult for some of the crew to get any sleep at all (Pablo). Last night we also spotted some more dolphins, this time quite close to us, jumping near our hull. We had not seen any dolphins at night untill then.
We could see the lights of Terceira Island all night, but today we stopped seeing any land over the horizon so until we reach the Iberian Penninsula in an estimated 5 days we will be traveling in open water.
Thank you very much for all of your support on firm land;
We will keep you posted.
Pablo.
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