West of Christchurch, New Zealand 30 March 201 43S59 174E23

Did I say we were going to Akaroa? Change of plans. Last night’s weather report had us tacking before midnight. We’re still under this high, headed west for the Chathams now. There’s a little more breeze this morning. Enough to put the little blue engine that could on a breakfast break. It looks like Bune will pass east and dissipate before we get there.

A little blue gray fairy prion just flew by the nav station portal. Neat pairs of cape petrels drop in now and then. I think the Albatross we’re seeing are mostly Royal Albatross (in varying plummage stages), some gray headed (looks like someone did the perfect gray airbrushing of their heads, and added a stern mascara look), and maybe some Chatham Island Albatross? They all come in close to SL, hoping to catch an extra lift from our sails. We’re looking at them thinking, “I wish I had a set of those wings” They’re looking a us thinking, “those billowy white things are “sweet as”.” (Kiwi for totally awesome.) I guess the ocean is always bluer on the other side. Frank says some frenchman returned from the southern ocean inspired by the albatross, sure that he should be able to glide like they do. He built a set of wings jumped and soared a fair distance, before he crashed to his death. I guess he forgot that the albatross usually soar over water. Actually, I don’t think he died instantly but soon after from injuries – probably long enough to think, “that was dumb, got to work on this landing thing.” I’d say he couldn’t look to the albatross for inspiration there. Lesson learned by the remaining humans on the planet; full fledged flight soon followed.

My walking Google can’t remember his name. Anyone?

xoxomo