The wind took its time coming back, so most of the day was spent motoring. We still have 1600 or so miles to go, so we run the engine at low rpm. That slows our speed, but it also conserves fuel for anything unexpected that may lie ahead.
Just after sunset, the engine coughed and dropped in RPMs. Both Mike and Angie immediately headed for the cockpit to put the engine in neutral as quickly as possible – that distinctive sound almost always means that something has become tangled in the prop.
Since it was after dark, we decided to hoist the sails in the light wind and sail slowly until morning. When the sun rose, Angie attached the GoPro to a boathook, and Mike took some video of the prop. Sure enough, a piece of line had become wrapped around the prop shaft.
We turned on the engine, and gingerly put the transmission in reverse for a few seconds. A second round with the GoPro showed the reverse thrust had unwrapped the line and it floated free. Disaster averted – we feel very fortunate!
To add to our luck, a nice southwesterly breeze has filled in, and we are making good progress to the northeast. Despite some tired crew, all is well aboard Madrone
Day six: 129nm
Position: 34 21’N 155 53’W
