Enroute Indonesia

The first two days out have been fairly mild. We are taking the long route to the Kai Islands by crossing the Gulf of Carpintaria (the big bite on the north coast, east side of Australia) directly west, then turning north once we get near the Wessel Islands. The reason for this longer route is to minimize exposure to the fishing boats and the 3 to 4 mile long free floating nets on the direct route. The Sail2Indonesia Rally boats left ahead of us and many that took a more direct route had difficulties. One boat was hung up in a net at night for 4 1/2 hours. Another counted over 40 fishing boats in what looked like an offshore village. The boats that took the westerly route encountered a few fishing boats and nets, but it seemed much less than the direct route.
First day noon to noon we did 156 miles. Second day 125 miles in light winds. We just have the main up as we are pointing close to DDW (Dead Down Wind). Looks like this longer route will add a full day to passage.

Paul

--short


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