Gear

After 2 years sailing and tweaking, this is how my expedition gear is set up on the final days (sniff) of the maritime stage. Each section is followed by pictures that explain each point. Click on images for captions.

A few days ago I reached the Mediterranean with a rather beautiful sail through the Straits. There were many dolphins, and a group of these provided memories that will endure for they suggested a route - that I was happy to follow - through the shipping. Did they really guide me? Who knows? The dolphins certainly seek out craft, and I can't help but think they were happy to be with a wind-powered human-piloted craft. I am certain that the final flourish of a jump, right next to me, was a farewell.

Come on board for two and a half minutes during the run from Sesimbra to Milfontes, Portugal!

I promised a post about navigation way back in Norway. It's a bit of a dry topic so I'll throw in lots of pictures and explain around those...

At Gijón I met up with Montse and Iñigo who had received and were taking care of a replacement for the original sail. Turbo GT one was very nice indeed. Turbo GT two is truly beautiful!

How did Turbo GT one fare?

I have some experience of sail lifespan experiments. 10+ years working at a Mediterranean sailing centre, and 98 days for the Round Britain adventure on a Tushingham Bolt. Both experiences gave me a good idea of what to expect...

Staying with good friends Ian, Solenne and Lily-Rose at La Rochelle and taking the opportunity to inspect / reinforce / repair / replace gear that has worn, which is basically everything!

Very necessary to do this as only 1/3 distance completed means 2/3 still to go, and the gear needs TLC to keep it going. While I try to be gentle on kit, sometimes conditions means that the going is quite brutal. And the number of hours sailed accounts for premature ageing of all gear (and probably myself too - but hey, no point saving yourself for a tomorrow that is never guaranteed...).

Given my previous good experiences with Tushingham Watersports Distribution I chose to approach them once again for gear to use on the Windsurf Round Europe expedition. They were nicely enthusiastic and together with Starboard and Severne provided all the windsurfing kit, and a SUP paddle.

Having used the gear for nearly a month here are a few thoughts. Please note that this post is probably of (potential!) interest to windsurfers rather than being of general appeal.