The FCS crew on Challenger 2 have enjoyed their visit to Norway and are now looking forward to the return leg to historic Portsmouth. Only the North Sea to re-cross, how will she behave this month? These are Skipper Sue’s daily reports.
12 June: We have filled up the in use fuel tank and spent the last of the kroner, so I guess it’s time to go home. We have plenty of breeze today and are making good speeds on a broad reach.
The crew has enjoyed Norway but the skipper has not enjoyed being questioned as to our every move by Norwegian Coastal Surveillance. Sadly their attitude has not been particularly friendly.
The crew is gradually getting back into Boat Mode and tomorrow will have to get back to mother watches and cooking for themselves as Sue the Cook goes back to being Skipper Sue.
13 June: The northerlies held longer than we were expecting and so we made 222nm under sail in our first 24hr run.
Unfortunately and as expected, it has now dropped and backed SW prior to the forecast strong winds so the engine went on just after 1100BST to maintain our passage speed south.
We have been prepping for heavy weather, pumping out bilges and hanking the Y3 and storm stay on under the existing sails. At the moment all is calm and serene, except for the engine noise, but I dare say that will change this afternoon.
Fortunately, the strong winds seem to be dying off by Thursday night so I’m sure everyone will enjoy a bit of excitement without too much discomfort. Today & tomorrow’s mothers have been carefully selected.
14 June: Today on Challenger 2: Sail Plan: 2 reefs, Y2, Storm Stay
It is bumpy, hence late midday report. Looking forward to the sea state moderating a bit.
15th June
Apologies for the brevity of yesterday’s report – I took over the watch at 1300BST to find the galley in chaos, no lunch ready and the mate on the helm calming a smouldering mutiny over whether or not we needed a third reef.
As the average apparent wind speed was about 28kts with occasional gusts in the low 30s and we were trying to make headway in steep seas with 2 reefs, Y3 and storm stay, it had been explained that less speed would make the motion more, rather than less, uncomfortable. I decided to heave to in order to get everybody fed and have half an hour to recover our senses of humour before proceeded south & west & south again. The weather went away an hour or so later.
Today we are motoring in the TSS (Traffic Separation Scheme) with no wind, blue skies and smooth seas. Lunch will happen as normal. I am hoping that the wind may fill in a bit tonight/tomorrow morning and we might get a final sail once we’re out of the TSS.
We’re looking at a Saturday lunchtime ETA and are discussing the possibility of an evening in Cowes, rather than Gunwarf, although there are a couple of people who would like the opportunity to leave early because of work travel on Monday. I don’t really want to cut the trip short for the others, though, so I have explained that currently all I can guarantee is that we will be in Portsmouth and ready to depart on Sunday at 1000.
I have minor damage to the stbd bow to report from the anchor bouncing off the bow roller and wedging under the pulpit bar – the bow roller bobbin is cracked in half – but it is now back where it should be, although myself and Rod (crew) were submerged several times in the process of putting it back. My pockets have now dried out in the sunshine, so that’s good.
Skipper Sue
It isn’t always like this, but that is part of the challenge and the testing of the sailing skills you have learnt. As you can read in all the Norway Sailing blogs every voyage is different but the result is always the same: adventure!
If you would like your own Nordic adventure visit this page Norway Sailing Adventure to discover more about this great holiday. If you have any questions just phone the crew in the office on 0203 006 3717 and they will be happy to help.
First Class experience. - Very good experience with First Class Sailing. Mark was a terrific teacher and the boat was well equipped and comfortable for a 5 day course. Would definitely recommend.
All female boat for day skipper practical - Being in an all female boat is a great way to learn. Kirsten, our instructor, had a very calm and reassuring style. The small size of the group (only 3... read more
Excellent training course with Fergus! - Excellent training course with Fergus! He made sure that across levels we were all learning and having fun! The extra context from his experience sailing was insightful and entertaining!
Jamie S
Join our Norway Sailing Expeditions aboard a Challenger 72 and experience true offshore adventure. Sail Portsmouth → Norway with fjord cruising, or join the return leg back across the North Sea. Log serious miles, build offshore confidence and enjoy breath taking scenery.
Join our Offshore Adventures — part of the Atlantic Circuit. Sail from Portsmouth to the Canaries, race the ARC to St Lucia, or return from Antigua to Portsmouth. Build miles, skill and confidence on these iconic bluewater voyages.
Join a Weekend Channel Hop and sail across the English Channel from Southampton to Cherbourg, or Alderney. Build offshore miles, experience night sailing, and even take the helm for a 60-mile passage under instructor guidance — ideal preparation for Yachtmaster Offshore candidates.
The latest news, articles, and resources, sent to your inbox weekly.
