Several of the Greek sailing websites describe the area of the Cyclades as "windswept"- I think they are right. Around the time we checked into the base in Lavrion, we were handed a weather forecast with Beufort Force Six circled for several of the days. This wind scale, developed in 1805, captures the idea that the force of the wind increases dramatically with speed - and a Force Six wind calls for a Small Craft Advisory. The hint was given that around Force Six, we would be unable to leave port. All night I was planning various ideas to keep the crew amused, and we left the back seat on the rented van at the Avis office, thinking we needed the luggage space. The next morning the forecast was revised, and off we went. This situation is common in the summer with the Meltemi, which blows hot and strong and can make the waters very challenging. There are reports of "four days" of Force Seven winds in this area.
Our first day sailing over to Kea was windy, and we made it fifteen or so miles on just the jib at five or so knots. The next day on our way to Kythnos the wind was light but we had large seas- five to seven feet, some larger. Amy, on her first charter, loved steering in strong winds and large seas, so earned the nickname "Six Beuforts."
Our first day sailing over to Kea was windy, and we made it fifteen or so miles on just the jib at five or so knots. The next day on our way to Kythnos the wind was light but we had large seas- five to seven feet, some larger. Amy, on her first charter, loved steering in strong winds and large seas, so earned the nickname "Six Beuforts."
No comments:
Post a Comment