Your Mom and I were thrilled to hear your voice this morning. So glad things are going smoothly and that you're all well. I hope you bagged the fish that was on the line.
What a terrible tragedy for the folks on Rule 62, let's all pray that Laura will be found. Of course, as bad as I feel for them, my overwhelming feeling is one of relief that Monica and Paul are fine.
Googling for more information I found a sailing forum where there's some interesting information. Apparently the conditions in the Bahamas over the weekend were very bad. Those cuts entering the Bahamas were in 'rage' condition which happens when the currents are going one way and the swells and wind are going the opposite direction. Causes very turbulent water. A resident on the Bahamian island just south of where they sank said the conditions were the worst he's seen in ten years. The guy who was in charge of the 8 Caribbean 1500 boats that sailed directly to the Bahamas said that going through that cut in those conditions was 'impossible'. We also don't know why they diverted to the Bahamas and what may have been wrong with the boat.
If you want to read more you can see the comment thread at Sailnet.
Tuesday, Nov 16, noon: Steve Black, owner of Cruising Rally Association, has been notified by the Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Association (BASRA) today that “the conditions are not favorable for finding Laura Zekoll alive.” The search and rescue mission involving the US Coast Guard, the Bahamas Defense Force, BASRA, and local efforts since Saturday night has resulted in “no findings.” The US Coast Guard has suspended its activity. The BDF will suspend its activity today. BASRA will continue aerial surveys of the vessel and area. Our thoughts and prayers are with Laura's friends and family as well as the crew of Rule 62.
Here's coverage by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:
Though details are still sketchy the best word now is that they diverted because the two ladies on the boat were both seasick and as they attempted to enter the cut into the Bahamas they were hit by a large wave, lost their mast, were swamped and then slammed onto the reef.
We were thinking of you guys on Thanksgiving. We were camping and it was about 30 degrees with a stiff wind. As we huddled close to the fire we thought about you guys, 85 degree temps, beautiful islands, warm waters. We hate to see you suffering like that and we would be willing to sacrifice and trade places with you.
Visitor Comments
Your Mom and I were thrilled to hear your voice this morning. So glad things are going smoothly and that you're all well. I hope you bagged the fish that was on the line.
Monica, you are now the Web Diva. I love the blogs and video updates. Keep it up.
I like the cooking harness. I want to get one for Gayle to use at home.
So, you walked out with over 3 gallons of liquor. I'm afraid to ask how much over 3 gallons. :-)
Does that Fat Bastard costume double as a flotation device? I think Paul should wear that while you're sailing, just for extra safety.
Bon Voyage Paul & Monica! Have a fun and safe trip. I see the satellite tracking shows you are on your way. We'll be watching your progress.
What a terrible tragedy for the folks on Rule 62, let's all pray that Laura will be found. Of course, as bad as I feel for them, my overwhelming feeling is one of relief that Monica and Paul are fine.
Googling for more information I found a sailing forum where there's some interesting information. Apparently the conditions in the Bahamas over the weekend were very bad. Those cuts entering the Bahamas were in 'rage' condition which happens when the currents are going one way and the swells and wind are going the opposite direction. Causes very turbulent water. A resident on the Bahamian island just south of where they sank said the conditions were the worst he's seen in ten years. The guy who was in charge of the 8 Caribbean 1500 boats that sailed directly to the Bahamas said that going through that cut in those conditions was 'impossible'. We also don't know why they diverted to the Bahamas and what may have been wrong with the boat.
If you want to read more you can see the comment thread at Sailnet.
Tuesday, Nov 16, noon: Steve Black, owner of Cruising Rally Association, has been notified by the Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Association (BASRA) today that “the conditions are not favorable for finding Laura Zekoll alive.” The search and rescue mission involving the US Coast Guard, the Bahamas Defense Force, BASRA, and local efforts since Saturday night has resulted in “no findings.” The US Coast Guard has suspended its activity. The BDF will suspend its activity today. BASRA will continue aerial surveys of the vessel and area. Our thoughts and prayers are with Laura's friends and family as well as the crew of Rule 62.
Here's coverage by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:
Coast Guard ends search for missing Atlanta woman
Atlanta woman, lost at sea, known for indefatigable spirit
Wed 11/17 - Here's a story and video from the Atlanta Fox station:
Vigil Held For Atlanta Women Missing From Sailboat
Though details are still sketchy the best word now is that they diverted because the two ladies on the boat were both seasick and as they attempted to enter the cut into the Bahamas they were hit by a large wave, lost their mast, were swamped and then slammed onto the reef.
We were thinking of you guys on Thanksgiving. We were camping and it was about 30 degrees with a stiff wind. As we huddled close to the fire we thought about you guys, 85 degree temps, beautiful islands, warm waters. We hate to see you suffering like that and we would be willing to sacrifice and trade places with you.
Hmmm Spring Cove Marina is fav of ours