"Perfect sailing conditions, but a few minor problems, which give you things to do even on the best of days. Since yesterday I've been busy trying to see what is wrong with the water maker.  There doesn't appear to be any signs of damage, yet it's only producing around 10% of its theoretical capability. I hope to find the solution by tomorrow.  Will let you know.  Up until now have spent about seven hours with the tools out trying to understand what's wrong."  
Norbert on Nauticsport-Kapsch

 

As I write this note, Cape Finisterre is visiable out the port side and I am just about to jibe to the south and continue chasing Bernard. I've been able to make some headway on him as I brought in the new wind from the north. I suspect though he will have slipped away after turning the corner as it is a much better wind angle as we head south. Next goal for me is to pass west of Madeira and to make some more time on the tail end of the fleet. More soon.
Take Care
Derek (Algimouss-Spirit of Canada)
 

"The night time is the time to get some sleep too.  In spite of being tossed around. The sea is all over the place, so the boat is finding it difficult to keep a steady speed. As soon as she takes off, a wave comes at us diagonally to counteract the power of the wind; so she tries again and the same thing happens. A bit annoying.  So, as a a consequence, it's difficult to now which sail is the most suitable in the circumstances, which is why I'm sleeping. Can't remember any of my dreams or my nightmares. I must be sleeping well.  Time for another one.  That will mean I'll be in great shape when it's time to go to church."
Mich

"Hi there, Fine weather and beautiful seas. Great night out heaving on the ropes on one side and the other, playing with the air currents; the veranda has been opened up to let some air in. The heat will be stifling later today (better make the most of it!).  Today is Sunday, so time for a shave and then the sun cream goes on."
Arnaud

 

For Loïck Peyron (Gitana 80) at the front of the fleet, today is clearly a Saturday, just like back on dry land...

"Everything is great out here.  I'm taking advantage of the fine weather to get a good wash.  As it's Saturday, I have my little list of things to do.  I'm going to wait a bit for the sea to calm before climbing to the top of the mast.  When you're thirty metres up, it tends to move around quite quickly..."

 

"In general, I'm pleased about my trajectory to the west.  I willingly gave up a little ground to head off  in that direction and I don't have any regrets about that, as it has allowed me to move away from the wind shadow of the islands.  If I'm managing to catch up those in front, it means things are going well.  Temenos II is sailing well and it's great for the morale, when I see the miles being won back.  The night started off nicely, with a steady 20 knots with 25-knot gusts and a few squalls. (...)  Then, after 3 in the morning, the wind dropped and I only have around ten knots.  The trade winds seem to have been interrupted and we're going to face two days of light conditions.  The boat doesn't sail by herself and the sea and waves tend to move her to the left and right, as the wind is so irregular. So it's better to stay at the helm and trim to ensure she keeps going well.  That requires concentration, and quite  lot of coffee, but it's not unpleasant. It's really nice weather and the conditions are quite pleasant.  I opened up the boat to let some air in and dry outside the inside, which is a good thing.» Dominique Wavre (Temenos II)