The crew on board Challenger 3, a Challenger 72, embark on a voyage from Portsmouth in the UK to Bergen in the Norwegian Fjords. In this blog crew member Fiona gives us a flavour of Day 1 as they depart and head east into the Channel and Anne follows up with Day 2.
Day 1 – Calm Seas
Perfection. It doesn’t get much better than this. Blue skies with no wind but a lovely way to exit the mooring and sail on the Solent. A great introduction to the boat, which is sailing to the power of ten. A calm sea helped us to work out the ropes, winches and attach the sails on a calm sea. We are blessed with a lead crew who are very knowledgeable and patient, ensuring that everything is done ship shape and Bristol fashion.
After topping up our sun lotion, we had a hot lunch of baked potatoes and a choice of toppings. Supper was a delicious Spag Bol, cooked by the Angela Hartnett of Canada. When there’s food, eat it – days are long but the scenery and the odd seal make it a stunning first day.
The twelve of us have been put into two watches and that’s a great way to get to know the rest of the crew, particularly in the dark small hours of the night. Each watch has a leader so you are guided in all actions, for a safe outcome. Our Skipper and mate are always referred to and give excellent explanations of what we’re doing and why. This is a great way to learn sailing, just on a bigger yacht.
Fiona.
Day 2 – Celestial Wonders
Another beautiful sunny day, with calm water and lots of time to learn the routines of the boat. The water was beautiful. No more wildlife after the seals, but we saw several wind farms. Delicious wraps for lunch, then we had a very helpful session on navigation in the afternoon. After a fabulous Thai curry, the wind picked up and we got to the business of sailing.
Night sailing in the North Sea
The wind has been just right for smooth sailing, enough action for us to learn the ropes, so to speak, while enjoying a comfortable ride. Our Skipper and mate set us up with layered mentoring, so everyone has an opportunity to challenge themselves and learn.
The sky on the ocean was completely clear. Even the Milky Way was visible, providing a pearlescent backdrop to the constellations. We had fun trimming the sails and optimizing speed while gazing at shooting stars throughout the night watches.
Anne.
And from the Skipper’s Daily report:
Current passage plan is to clear the TSS’s and gas platforms and head pretty much due to North to try and position ourselves ready for the wind finally decides to fill in.
Sailing past oil and gas platforms in the North Sea
If something like this might interest you keep an eye out for dates on this page: Norway Sailing Adventures on Challenger 72 – Fjords & Offshore – First Class Sailing
