The light winds of the first two days continued, and Madrone slid along at a stately pace through nearly flat calm seas. After midnight, though, the wind dropped further and swung around to blow from aft.

We’re trying to arrive at the Gulf of Tehuantepec in between two gales, so the motor came on and Madrone turned into a powerboat. By morning, the waves from the first gale had arrived; without wind to steady the boat, the ride was uncomfortable.

We’re hopeful that winds from the edge of the gale will arrive this afternoon, and that this first gale itself will have blown itself out by the time we arrive at the heart of it. Then, the leftover wind will let us scoot across the Gulf before the second one arrives. At least that’s our plan…

Until then, the crew is looking forward to some stronger winds. All’s well onboard.

Day Three: 127nm
13 24.0N 98 44.1W