1930 Sunday, June 26
We had an amazingly fast sail from Halifax. We had four consecutive days of 160 to 170 miles each day. I don't recall that happening since we got Tazzarin in 1995. It was a bit hard going with 25 to 30 knot winds most of the time with the worst weather coming last evening and night. At one point winds were gusting to 45. Later that night, 30 knots with torrents of pelting rain.
We were feeling really good at about 0300 this morning when the wind faded away and I tried to start the engine to do the final 40 miles. As I accelerated the engine slowed, and then stopped, refusing to start again.
This part of the world is generally known for having winds. However, the heavy winds since Halifax seemed to fizzle away as a big high nudged away a low up in Labrador. We chased zephyr of winds for about ten hours, slowly working our way up into Conception Bay. The entire 35-mile long bay became a sheet of glass with not a hint of wind.
Examination of the engine by us has not determined a definitive problem. We contacted the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club and arranged for a tow the last 15 miles. We are now at the club, our intended destination; but, with some frustration at needing assistance and still no answer about the engine. We think it may be an alternator problem. I have gotten contact info for the best boat mechanic in St. John's and hope he can come tomorrow and work his magic.
Bill
