Durban to Port Elizabeth

We left Durban at 0720 on Saturday 28^th December. There was a small exodus of yachts as a suitable weather window of NE opened up. Soon there were several yachts calling each other on VHF to ask if anyone had found the infamous Agulhas Current that flows in a southerly direction at 3-6 knots. We followed the example of Wandering Dream and motorsailed seawards. We found the current and we stayed in it, recording speeds over the ground up to 11.9 knots. We maintained 10+ knots for most of the trip.

Sometimes the wind was light and we motorsailed; at other times it was fresh to strong and we sailed downwind goosewinged. During both nights we had to gybe, which involved taking the pole down and transferring it to the other side.

Soon after turning away from the current towards Port Elizabeth, the wind died as though someone had switched it off. We had to motor the last 50 miles. At dawn a thick fog descended, so we had to keep a careful watch, using AIS and radar to assist. Fortunately, as we approached the harbour the fog lifted. John called Port Control and we were given permission to enter. He then called Algoa Bay Yacht Club and we were told a berth was available.

We tied up at 1130 on Monday 30^th November. Checking in was easy – just one form to complete. We were made very welcome and made good use of the hot showers, the bar and the restaurant.

We intend to leave PE today (Wed 2^nd December) and hope to sail all the way to Simons Town assuming the weather stays favourable. SE winds are forecast.