Passage: Tonga to NZ Day 4

Saturday, November 9, 2024:  Passage Tonga to New Zealand Day 4

The wash machine continues, as we are in the spin cycle of this stretch of water.  Daylight on these waves makes it much better, as we can anticipate them and change our COG (course over ground) as needed based on the direction of the 2.5-3 meter waves, spaced very closely together.  Occasionally a monster wave rolls through; combined swell and large wind wave, just had one hit the side of the boat of about12-15 foot size.  That one got our attention and heart pumping.  We have been warned that this passage is challenging and it’s living up to this.  Throughout the day, we have maintained good speed while rolling about and watching for extra large waves, which we steer so they are behind us rather than the side.  The wind had decreased a bit and Calder stated, “You know you’ve been sailing in heavy winds when you call 25 knots wind a breeze.”

We use medications, pressure point wrist bands, and ginger for seasickness.  Usually, it takes about 3 days to acclimate.  The scopolamine patches that work best for us come in with unfortunate side effects of dry mouth and blurry vision (for reading mostly), but they work so well and prevent the worst feeling – seasickness.  We’re all thankful for our patches today, which allow us to function, from preparing food to taking night watch and handling the boat; our crew of 4 need all hands on deck.

We passed the International Date Line today; we are in the Eastern Hemisphere, a first for our family.  We are also dipping into lower latitudes we have not been to.

Tonight, we’ll likely put these waves on our stern and head more westerly, then get back on our rhumbline at first light tomorrow.  Between scopolamine side effects, fatigue (lack of good sleep), and the tricks the ocean can play on you; they Hyer family is all prone to visual and auditory hallucinations.  Luckily we are aware that these are hallucinations, but they can give us a start.  Last night, Chris saw clearly a kayaker zip past our boat and thought we were going to hit him; goosebumps covering his skin instantly.  We all hear music.  I frequently see shadows of people in our boat during nightwatch when everyone is in bed.  We’ve seen land and boats that are not there; my favorite was a big purple pirate ship. 

Wahoo curry for dinner tonight.  Overnight watch was uneventful, just rough and rolly.  We did hit a band of counter-current, which made the seas confused and choppy; Calder was on watch at that time and took it with ease; man, he’s a salty kid.  Terikah groans and squeaks, waves smack the boat with force; it’s a noisy ride.  We are making excellent time and have 542 more miles to go.  Looking forward to a glass of delicious NZ wine and a salad with fresh basil and arugula, as well as a hike in the woods.