Tasmanian Sea -Sept. 5, 2000

Position: Tasmanian Sea -Sept. 5, 2000

Our adventure has finally begun to move forward. The reason for the long delay in Web pages and the long stop in Auckland is the exchange of yachts. We are now at sea on a newer Seaquell. We are sailing from Auckland to Sydney for the Olympics, which start on Sept 15.

This yacht was built in 1992 whereas the old Seaquell was built in 1985. The new Seaquell is a bit larger 108' but a much safer yacht. It has the same accommodations but very different in decor. Inside we have traditional varnish finish to which June is adding her decorating touches to make it home. We still have a crew of four with Captain Peter and mate Gabby but a different engineer Michael and chef Anna.

The engine room is very different, more compact with better engineering, a single engine, 650HP, and better design for associated machinery that keeps us afloat. We still have an enclosed pilothouse for comfort. The boat is sailed from two outside wheels, from which the sails are all automated. The automated sail handling from the pilot wheel reduces the crew requirement for normal sailing conditions. We have a deep blue hull with white topside. The mast is 120' with in boom furling, all carbon fiber and rod rigging.

This yacht was purchased in Ft. Lauderdale, sailed to Auckland where it was put into the yard for painting and upgrading of electronics and navigation equipment. All of this extended our stay in Auckland. The old Seaquell is on its way to Ft. Lauderdale with Captain Jerome and mate Gillian who were with us thru our New Zealand adventures. They will arrive for the end of Oct. boat show and to be sold. We had grown very fond of the old Seaquell after sailing 50,000 miles crossing two oceans and 7 seas, covering half the world. June had made it very attractive and comfortable living with prized possessions collected from around the world.

We spent time during the months of July and August in Mpls. and will arrive in Sydney on Sept. 11. June is flying from Mpls, and I am having my first sea voyage on the new Seaquell. The first 3 days have been very rough with 40-knot head seas as was predicted. With an experienced crew we will make a safe trip.

Our many months in Auckland and other parts of New Zealand were most enjoyable. We made many new friends and had a great experience enjoying the Americas Cup Races. We depart with fond memories and move on to the Olympics in Sydney.

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