Why am I on board this boat, Oceans of Hope?

Why did I say yes, to making this journey?

Today I found out why…

Many thoughts go through your head, before entering this project. Many nights you have been awake, thinking of this big trip to Boston, with people you do not really know, and on a boat with a minimal space, less than what you are used to. What about seasickness? How will you react on the big waves on the Atlantic Ocean?

The first three days we were in harbour. It's not really happening yet... But when we sailed Tuesday morning from the harbour, we were on our way, no way back. Until today, I use all my time, to try to fit in with the other crew. I have already got used to my bed, very little space, and often very hot, but it's ok. It is really difficult to imagine, that I am only 10% into the trip to Boston, and I am NOT seasick.

This night I went to bed at 2 am, after a quiet night in the cockpit. I had my next duty from 8 to 12, making some breakfast, and after that, I prepare the fishing gear, trying to catch our first fish, but no! No luck this time. I went to sleep for some hours, and I woke up because some “boys” were playing with water on the deck. That follows too, that all the crew was having a saltwater bath on the deck, in the sunshine, beautiful. We follow it up with a beer, nice time.

At dinner I make some chili con carne with rice, together with Tine. We had a glass of wine, two for the chef ;=), and for the dessert a group of dolphins was joining us in the water.

That is a day you only have thought of, before leaving, know it is for real.

We will arrive in Madeira tomorrow, and the first of three steps will be done, although many miles still wait to be sailed.

Many things and thoughts are going through my mind, I enjoy my time and I, of course, think of you at home.

Love from Jacob