I’m starting this update counter a little later — we’re actually already deep into night number two, but also because the first 12 hours were, frankly, about as exciting as watching paint dry. It also took me a moment to switch back into “Ocean Mode,” which apparently comes with a complimentary headache for me. While I’m not prone to classic seasickness I often get these at the beginning of a sail — which, I suppose, is just a different version of the same thing as seasickness.

First, the important news: Uki’s leg is clearly improving and behaving exactly as it should — much to everyone’s relief.

As for the rest of us, we’re currently gliding along at what can only be described as a “leisurely” pace… under engine. We did know the forecast promised very little wind for the first 48 hours, but in a moment of classic sailor optimism, we assumed it was probably underestimating things — as it so often does. Well… not this time. A trough and a parade of squalls, complete with massive amounts of rain, have made sure that any brief hint of wind either disappears immediately or spins around just to keep things interesting. So yes, patience is the name of the game.

On the bright side, the calm seas gave me the perfect opportunity to bake what might just be my prettiest loaf of bread yet — and it tasted even better, especially with fresh butter and jam.

That said… we’re back out here, properly at sea again — and if I’m being completely honest, enthusiasm levels are currently… moderate at best. A touch of “sailing fatigue” has crept in, which seems entirely reasonable given the number of miles we’ve packed into the past months. We actually saw some interesting reaction on people’s faces in the Gambiers when we casually mentioned we had left near Venice last August. Let’s just say… there were some very impressed (and slightly concerned) looks.

But! The good stuff is still ahead. First challenge: getting into one of these atolls — which is not exactly a walk in the park. More on that adventure tomorrow.

In the meantime, I hope you’re not too tired of sailing from the comfort of your chairs — and that you’ll keep coming along for the ride!