Mike and Cavatina are safe in Milford Sound as of this afternoon, meaning perhaps Mike can get a much deserved good night’s rest!
The last couple of days have seen some intense winds of up to 40 knots and high seas around 5 metres, making for a ride that Mike compared to “riding a bucking bronco” at times. While he was initially aiming for Doubtful Sound, Mike chose this morning to make for the much closer Milford Sound instead.
“I’ve had enough of the last two days incessant pounding on the hull, the screaming wind and the violent motion. The final straw came when I was standing in the doghouse and a giant wave completely buried the boat and nearly threw me down the companionway as we were slammed right over on our side.”
– From “Running for it” blog post from Tuesday 15 September
Mike sounded very enthusiastic in his blog posts when Milford came into view and commented on the beautiful surroundings:
“Mist, sheer snow capped peaks, threads of waterfalls everywhere descending thousands of feet. And the sea is flat!”
– From “Into Deepwater Basin” blog post from Tuesday 15 September
He can now fill up on diesel fuel and possibly make any necessary repairs or modifications if required in the more sheltered conditions. Most of all, we’re hopeful he can get some proper sleep and cook a nice meal without it getting thrown about!
Watch this space for additional details of his next moves, including whether he stays at Milford Sound for a few days or makes his way to Doubtful Sound. Mike will be sure to update us with his plans via the tracking page, so keep an eye on it!
We’d also like to take a moment to express our gratitude for the donations that have come into the WWS fundrasier in the last few days. We are currently at more than $4000 in donations from the generous community and we are truly humbled. The Kate still needs a lot of work to reach our goals for her, though, so any support is beneficial. If you can donate, please consider doing so through our Givealittle page.
(Photo is by Krzysztof Golik and from Wikimedia – not Mike’s, unfortunately. We hope to receive images from him as soon as he is able and within mobile phone reception range.)