While Michael worked on cleaning up the storm’s detritus and prepared for the installation of new parts, Cousin Tom readied his world for the rescue mission. This wasn’t an easy task, as it meant expedited passport renewal service and expedited shipping of the new parts and pieces, as well as…drumroll, please…a satellite phone rental package so I won’t have to go through the agonies of not knowing where, when, and how Sea Venture and her crew fare.
Tom flew into Costa Rica on Saturday. Sunday they installed parts, reviewed all systems for any inherent weaknesses, and rested. On Monday, they tried to clear out and get fuel, but after a long trip by cab to Liberia, they ran out of time. This process continued on Tuesday, and it wasn’t until early Wednesday that they finally managed to clear the headland. They have now spent three days and two nights heading south, often with no wind, sometimes with quite a good breeze. Michael reported afternoons of 10 knots over ground, which has allowed them to move into Panamanian waters. But they are exhausted, with only two on board to manage the watches. They plan to put into an anchorage around noon today to sleep…and sleep.
