90nm to Great Keppel, sea swell to 3 meters with white water tops, short swell length made passage challenging. Sens de la Vie is performing well with Terry exclaiming this is "A great Boat". South east winds up to 25 knots with bullets of 35 knots means that limited sail could be put out as you run the risk of a broach.
Enough sail out to help stabilise the yacht and keep us on course. Hard slog for the boys as we don't have hydraulic steering only direct quadrant cable which is standard. I was off helm today as MAN strength was definitely needed for this passage .
Auto helm could not be used as we needed to surf the waves as much as possible so as not to be slammed broad side.To my surprise did not get sea sick in the sloppy seas and kept the crew feed and water. Working in the galley was very challenging and reminded me of the Lucile Ball movie "Caravan" with food and utensils going everywhere and being knocked down a couple of times as I attempted to make Corn and bacon fritters. I need to adjust my galley harnesses, its a learning experience with 2 bruises and a burn.
No other boats out except for a large tanker which came very close.
It was a welcome sight at sunset to see Great Keppel Island in the distance. And "Chivas me Timber" a glass of Chivas was in order to steady the nerves of coming into a harbour in the dark and anchoring.
Anchors down in a small bay to the north of the island protected from swells and wind. Rums in hand Geoff and Terry were relived although a bit sore in the shoulders.
Quiet and restful night.
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