Day 2: Onward to Gosport

In the early hours of day 2 the winds picked up to fresh and strong breezes (F5 to F6); up to 26 knots, whilst the sea state rose. A lively night as it all increased further. The noises, howling of the wind, rolling and being launched from my bunk made my imagination grow restless. With the SW winds over the west flowing tide I emerged at 0500 to the largest waves I've seen; we were running with them south of Poole which, thanks to Roger, is the second of my sponsored 'Pass the Ports'.

Got on the helm and it was amazing - up and down, climb and surf, rock and roll; try holding the course of 080. A great learning curve and appreciation of the awesomeness of the sea cutting our big boat down to size. Tide turned in our favour again but the weather and waves grew too. Anxious at thought of passing through Needles Channel, especially by 'The Bridge' bar, but was all ok in reality as long as we made the rising tide. Liveliest waters I've seen at the Needles, picture below doesn't seem to capture it fully. Kept my eye on the GPS but we held a good course and made it through to a calm
Solent with Force 7 winds, we were rushing along at about 9 kts plus over ground. Via Cowes and on to Gosport, so close to home, knew my sons were due to be windsurfing in view at Calshot! Winds grew further for amazing blow, squalling well over F8 as we entered Portsmouth harbour by the small boat channel. But 'Wheal Go' performed admirably all night, we covered 169 nautical miles in 27hrs, we're totally exhilarated and exhausted. We couldn't have had a better introduction to the boat and start to the circumnavigation; well done Skipper!

Eventually in getting all my kit off I found my overtrouser seat had leaked, I was sodden (hidden in warmth of 2 pairs of long johns). Uncanny being so close to home, so to both our surprise Libby, my wife, came over to take me to get some new sailing salopetts to keep me dry. It was great to see her, and followed by a cuppa on board with the crew plus hearing our adventure, I think Libby went home with greater confidence in this voyage and I realised how great she truly is in encouraging me to go.