The ship’s journal from the Delivery from Mallorca to Fiji

12/01/25 0800CET South of Formentera

It feels great to have finally left. It’s been only 8 weeks since this plan was hatched. Those 8 weeks available for preparation were interrupted with a planned trip to METS Trade Amsterdam and another one to Belgium for the Christmas break. The last week where we were living on board, postponing our departure due to big south westerly winds, have actually been a blessing. It has given us time to settle in. But we were anxious to leave. While quietly sneaking out would have been my preference, it was actually heartwarming to have a small crowd of friends waving us goodbye from the breakwall of Club Nautic Arenal. The grey weather and remaining swell at the entrance made the moment even more monumental! 

We enjoyed a wonderful first afternoon. However the sea state was somewhat confused due to the high winds from the last few days. Although the night started off calmly, we were prepared for stronger winds with two reefs in the mainsail. But when the big winds turned out to be building too close to 40 knots, we quickly dropped the main, and continued on a heavily reefed genoa. The kids slept through it, mostly in the arms of their aunt and mom. Everybody stood their nightwatches bravely despite some seasickness. 

Around 6am the wind calmed down and since then we have been cruising under the sun. 

Currently passing south of Formentera. The kids were excited to have spotted a turtle!