Week 3 Yesterday we had the deverstating news of the death of Sarah Young, a round the world crew mate on Icorcoal. She had been washed overboard and although recovered, could not be resuscitated. It's everyones worst fear. I had met Sarah briefly in Airlie Beach and she was the victualler for Icorcoal so we had bumped in to her in various supermarkets. She was funny, vivacious and enjoying her adventure. She will be missed by many and a sad loss to our special ...

Week 2 Happy Easter! You will be pleased to know that Easter traditions have been keenly observed on the good ship GREAT Britain with chocolate Easter bunnies and a well recived batch of freshly cooked hot cross buns from the mothers. (and yes Fr Mark, a few prayers from me too) Bunnies are not allowed to be mentioned on boatd as it is bad luck for sailors, so we chomped them pretty quickly. I'm mother today so it's pesto pasta for lunch, curry for tea followed...

Qingdao to Seattle Week 1 So here we are back at sea. We are on day 2 and so far light airs have meant a smooth ride. I am however keeping on with the sea sickness tablets as we are expecting building winds tonight. The calm winds and sea state meant for a pretty tame LeMans style start but at least Lmax behaved herself. We had a good start but got snagged by fishing nets last night, so much so that Peter had to dive over the side this morning to cut us free. H...

So we're getting close now. 1 more day to go before we leave. This is the last chance for WiFi so this will be my last blog until Seattle. Feeling OK about going and as I look around I know that I am in good company and that facing this thing together we will get through. This is all about the team. I'm as ready as I'll ever be. Today has been my last day off and we went strawberry picking! This area is well known for its strawberries and they had arranged a vi...

Hello again from Qingdao! I've spent today immersing myself in Chinese culture. Firstly a visit to a local community centre with displays of dance, calligraphy and martial arts. It's been a beautiful day. Cold and crisp but sunny. This afternoon we went to the old town, ate delicious soup in a Chinese greasy spoon, found a beautiful bay by the sea, ate spicy fried squid on a stick, visited a space needle viewing platform (very high!), got stranded, negotiatated...