The Europa is coming from the Channel, immediately she hits a big low pressure area. The wind is picking up, they have to take away sails. Those who are first timers on the Europa learn the importance of "one hand for yourself and one for the ship", also the first funny dancemoves appear.

The Europa is coming from the Channel, immediately she hits a big low pressure area. The wind is picking up, they have to take away sails. Those who are first timers on the Europa learn the importance of "one hand for yourself and one for the ship", also the first funny dancemoves appear.

The Europa goes deeper in this depression, for a while the weather calms down. They are in the eye of the depression, the calm before the storm, blue sky and sunny. But around them dark clouds appear, that isn`t a good sign. Preparations are being made for the situations coming up and that`s no luxury..... midnight, change of watch, one bell rings, all on watch be present, two bells rings, all hands on deck. Not unexpected but suddenly the wind picks up. Look they are climbing up the mast, sails are being furled. With storm sails the Europa curls by the “back” of this depression to a southerly course. It is a heavy one, force 9 Bf with a peak to force 11 BF… One hand for yourself and one for the ship is getting more and more important. A restless night for the crew, finding the right position in your bunk is quite a challange. At breakfast new dance moves are being signaled.

It looks like the "Weather Gods" are wanting to push the Europa into the Gulf of Biscay and the next low is already on its way to dive into the Channel. With the assistance of some motor power the course is set to the west to stay above this depression. The wind is turning, back on sails again, with a force 7 at the back the ship is moving happily ahead. Yes, they manage to keep the new low below them, later they willbenefit from it. Itturns out to bethe last bit of hurricane Henry, not only waves from behind but also a two to three meter swell is hitting the Europa. They move bow to stern and from port to starboard! A new phenomenon is appearing, especialy in the bunks situated across the ship: slipping in and out your night gown. Also we see things flying, which we didn`t know they could. Which new dance moves are appearing now, I will leave it up to your imagination.

The Europa moves on, leaving the Gulf behind, on a north-westerly wind in the direction of Lisbon. The weather is easing, rocking `n roling is replaced by a more gentle rocking and the sun is shining. Look, the benches are being put out again. Will the crew be able to have lunch outside again? Unfortunately I have to leave the Europa in Lisbon but wish all the (voyage)crew who are going around Cape Horn fair winds!!!! Monique, Voyage Crew.