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Writer's pictureTom Johnson, PopieTom

Bella Donna (4) - APRIL 15, 2007




Woke up at 4:30, a little too early for the 6 to 9 AM watch, but I did go to bed early

last night. I turned off the mobile phone alarm set for 5:30. That is all it is good for

no carrier in sight. I read some guides on Panama Canal and South Pacific then got up to

make coffee. While brewing I went out to cockpit couch and laid down, perfect crescent

moon hung over the dinghy in its position on the aft deck. The partially illuminated

perfectly round reflection of the rising sunlight from the earth east of here provided the

partial illumination of the dark portion of the moon. Beep, beep, beep – the coffee is

ready. Reaching the fly bridge, I see Deborah with a blanket over her head and covering

her head; she is staring at the instruments and the faint horizon. We talk about how odd

it is to be so cool at night and hot during the day.


We are in 15,000 feet of water in the Caribbean Sea. The passage has been great. The sea is just a little choppy with a gentle swell. The apparent wind is at 120 degrees off the

port, a very desirable wind direction for a catamaran. With the engines and with headsail only, the full Genoa, we are doing 9 to 9.7 knots. We will not fish today; we lost one of our lures late yesterday. I think we are going too fast to fish. Sailing comes first; fishing has to wait.


Well I read sailing guides for Panama and the South Pacific most of the day. We are making great progress. The "speed over ground" derived from the GPS hit 12 and 14 knots. That is remarkable as we are so heavy with fuel, provisions and spares of equipment. We are helped by the current and the wind is gusting just under 20 knots. I can't wait until my next watch at 6 PM. Needless to say "no fish today" although we did have ahi on lettuce for lunch. It is good to have a freezer.


God Bless Bella Donna.


PS - What AI Says

We make it to Panama in a few days and then it will be time to make preparations for the South Pacific. I'm looking forward to the new adventure and all the new places we will visit.


After getting the boat ready, we will make our way to the Galapagos Islands. It will be a long passage, but I'm sure it will be worth it. The islands are known for their unique wildlife, and I'm excited to see what we will encounter.


We will also be visiting the Marquesas Islands, which are known for their stunning landscapes and unique culture. I'm sure that will be an experience to remember.


After this, we will be heading to Tahiti and the Society Islands. I'm looking forward to exploring the islands, and I'm sure we will find some great places to snorkel and dive.


Finally, we will be heading to the Cook Islands, which are known for their pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. I'm sure we will find some great places to relax and enjoy the beauty of the islands.


It's going to be an amazing journey, and I can't wait to get started.

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