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30
December 2000 Man Of War - Pirates Bay, Tobago
Early morning
Early morning
It was an incredible sight. The rainforest reaches all the way down to and
covers the sugar white beach, tropical birds were everywhere to be seen. But I
didn't have the time to enjoy it. (I was hoping for twilight and here we were in
full daylight). I had to get my dinghy out and inflate it in a hurry. Both of
them had thrown their bags, in which they kept their clothes, overboard.
Instead, they were now wearing them all and looked a little bloated. The
neighbour boat was awake and saw us getting into the dinghy and sailing to
shore. He was French and didn't look particularly pleased. Surely he had figured
out what was taking place, so I was urging to get it over with and get away. And
I know: It's idiots like me who are to blame for the authorities often being
suspicious. I'm not the only one doing it though, and after all it's not a
popularity contest. As as a matter of fact, I understand why these guys are
doing this. Moreover, I can quite easily use the money.
When we reached the sandy beach, the guys didn't want to get out: "We'll get our
feet wet....". I was standing in water up to my ankles and was trying to pull
the dinghy to shore, when the problem solved itself. A giant swell hit the
dinghy and knocked it over, which left the guys soaking wet in all layers of
clothing. Joseph was lying beneath it, making funny sounds. Right there, I
believe they would have rather gotten their feet wet, but that was the choice
they made. I quickly packed up the dinghy and got the anchor up. And got
nowhere!!! I came in using sail, and now there was practically no wind to help
me get out of there. After what felt like an eternity, I was able to set a
northern course towards international waters. 15 miles out I changed course, now
headed for Bonaire and a five day navigation was ahead. It was really nice to be
on my own again.
Life at sea is really simple. When you have sailed for some days and found your
rhythm, I feel like I could go on "forever". Sailing is much easier than going
ashore, with all the work and hassle that comes with that.
When I have been sailing for a few days - everything calms down
Time comes to a standstill - and distances disappear
The hustle and bustle and hassle is gone - and everyday life turns good
I am now - on Planet Blue
Initially there's unease - then there's yearning
What's going to happen out there and when will I arrive?
But after a few days - land is(/feels like) jail
Let happen, what happen will - 'cause now I'm home. J.H.
Well, you turn completely philosophical after spending so much time alone. It
starts with talking to yourself, then to the wind vane and the primus. But when
you think they start answering you back, it's time to get to shore...... |
