The Pyramid.

DAY 20

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Welcome to Crusty's Chronicle, episode two.

Having motored for some considerable time due to no wind, we are heading into Chatham Island for fuel, water and hopefully a pie.

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It has been a light wind day with clear skies and moderate swell. Now it's a cloudless night with a majestic and full blue moon, making it one of the brightest nights we have had. Checking sails and navigating is so much easier with this level of light.

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Our approach into Waitangi harbour was pretty much uneventful apart from he main engine stalling due to a lack of fuel. Somethings easily fixed with a few more revs and opening the vent on the day tank. It was joyful to anchor with no swell and great holding sand for the anchor.

After a short sleep, we woke to the stench of raw sewerage which had been sprayed into the bilge by a ruptured toilet pump. It was such an aromatic delight, that we were blessed with  the challenge of trying to keep our breakfast in us. Sadly the pump is tucked away behind our house batteries and not easily accessed. Fixing it will be one crappy job that will have to wait until we arrive in Chile. We have convinced ourselves the aroma will disappear over time. Of course it will, won't it… Funny how the pump is under the floor of the entrance to my berth…

Meeting the Chatham Island locals made our day. They were so friendly and helpful that nothing was a problem for them. Sadly, I didn't have time to try and get volunteers to fix the toilet pump. However, the pies and coffees were great!

By midday we were sailing along the island's west coast heading back into the expanse Southern Pacific Ocean. Sailing past The Pyramid, a weather-beaten rock pinnacle pocking up out of the ocean, was a great reminder of the colossal power of the sea. The bird and sea life was amazing. Geoff and the lads are keen to return some day and climb some of the incredible faces. Rather them than me.

I think our next challenge will be the remoteness of the remaining Southern Ocean. It's not for the fainthearted. The 4,200 nautical miles will be a test of team and boat. Given the great team and boat it's one we will overcome.

Until next time - Crusty