We left Skagen this morning with a forecast of 7-10 m/s, gusting to 15. Shortly after our departure, sure enough- Lyngby Radio sounds out near gale warnings for pretty much everywhere. We spent the day learning again, mostly learning what the difference is between 11 m/s and 15 m/s. A double reefed main and some of our jib kept us going 5.5 to 6.5 knots, sometimes 8, and the off-shore wind kept the waves around 2 meters. Easy peasy.
We made it to Laesø safely despite the wind, the waves, and the insane ferry driver who decided to throw it into reverse while we were maybe 50 meters from making it past the break water. No choice given what we could see but to tack with what jib we had out and try to stay out of his way. We did manage to do that, despite a consistent headwind of 13.5 m/s. We jibed back down behind him (this is not a small vessel mind you, and the shoals around Laesø are numerous and dangerous to him and us), and got friendly waves from the passengers who likely thought us insane.
The map is getting prettier, more symmetric, and the wind looks okay (gusting to 15 🙂 ) for a run to Anholt tomorrow.
The onions are done.
-ben
