Tuesday 16th : Rosslaire - what are you doing there?

After my frustrating windless day, I did get some wind in the evening. Trouble is that when I tried to head off on the port tack, the boat would not steer in a straight line. Fine on starboard but port is what I needed to get towards Cork.

I worried that something was wrong with the keel - so decided to head for shelter to have a look. I was halfway between Rosslare and Kilmore Quay - but Rosslare looked much safer to navigate to in the dark. 

So reluctantly I noted my position and put on the engine - it  felt safer steering that way, although still felt odd.

So after a frustrating trip - currents against me - I am now anchored up at Rosslare -Tuesday  lunchtime. 

I have looked over the boat as best I can, but can't find any issues and the boat sails ok here. I can only assume that I was in some sort of eddy, that made the steering seem wrong and turned the boat in circles. 

I was also very tired and my decision making was not great. Also, on the way here I thought that people were on the boat with me and chatted to them! I saw a dolphin and told Vanessa, who was sitting with her back to the mast ! Objects on the boat have taken on animal forms too. 

Sleep deprivation - two nights with just a few 10 minute kips - is a weird thing. I know that some of the other guys have had the same thing. 

The wind is very strong now , so I am stuck here, cursing myself  but at least I can get some sleep . My plan is to leave early tomorrow and resume sailing from where I switched on the engine . Not sure how far I will get, but will see what happens. 

All part of the learning experience , this really is tough. Other guys also struggling with breakages and lack of sleep too

Anyway, I'm case you wonders about the delights of  Rosslare - here you go!