Part 5
29th & 30th November:
The weather conditions were harsh, brutal, and had never given any comfort to us. In these two days I learned more about helming than in the last few years. It is fascinating and frightening at the same time when this seventy footer crush through the waves and there is water everywhere. The condition, for most of us, was new and very challenging but our Skipper, Jeronimo, has thought us well and given us good tips.
I was on the helm and having the time of my life when suddenly a big wave hit us on starboard side which almost knocked down the boat. Vincent was sitting on the higher side, trimming the Yankee and flew like an angel over the winches all the way to the port side, stopped by his harness and the guard rail net, only to be washed down straight away by the waves coming over him. His adrenaline kicked in immediately and within seconds he crawled back up as if nothing has ever happen to him. Thank God nothing happened there for these kind of situations are very dangerous and can lead to severe injuries. It was just crazy.
When the darkness came over, it was pitch dark - I could barely see the bow. The wave pattern was not like that of Atlantic with long nice running waves, rather it was everywhere. I was literally helming the boat blindly, relying only on the instruments. When you are helming in such conditions you start developing the next level of boat handling. At this level we changed the helm every 30 minutes as it came close to an insane HIT training. I was completely wet but not from the waves that broke over the deck, but was wet from the inside sweating. This was the most frightening yet most fascinated sailing experience I have ever had.
I am surprised how much I have learned in these 2 days. From our shift, only the four of us were helming at night for two days and once I hit my sleeping bag, I fell asleep straight away. Even brushing your teeth feels like an extra effort and it's a big accomplishment when you do it. Lol.
During the day shift I pushed myself a bit more to see how long I could stay outside. After 3,5 hours I surrendered to the elements and went under the deck again to warm up and get the feelings back in my hands and feet. What a stupid idea it was. Lol.
Wow Alex, sounds thrilling and terrifying at the same time. Only slightly different from the Dubai waters from the sound of it ; ) Looks like the heavy wind conditions are starting to decrease. Time to warm up and make your way to Sydney. Safe sailing and enjoy.
Wow, basically you can helm the boat with your eyes closed! Make sure you warm your fingers enough so you can use them to brush your teeth!!! Stay safe and stay healthy!