Problems establishing satellite data connectivity with the server. Tracking software needs to be reinstalled and reconfigured.
March 21, 2006
March 20, 2006
Equipment and supplies
Testing waterproof casings, alternate solar panels, optics, Iridium connecitivty and night naviagtion.
March 19, 2006
More checks
Meeting with Andrew Matheu, CEO D&A in Barcelona, who comes down to La Gomera to meet me. He plans to cross the Atlantic in September. More checks on the EPIRB, hatch and electrics. Condensation in the hatch at night is a big problem.
March 18, 2006
More bad weather
Checking daily weather reports from the marina office in San Sebastian.Looks like bad winds will last for a few days.
March 17, 2006
Bad weather front
Bad weather front approaching. Testing satellite connectivity with Iridium and the Panasonic Toughbook.
March 16, 2006
Marine tests
Testing the boat in San Sebastian harbour and interview with the Spanish news agency.
March 15, 2006
In the water
Applying a coat of anti-fouling paint to the hull, just before putting the boat into the water. Loading a 40 day supply of emergency drinking water which also acts as ballast.
March 14, 2006
Sponsor logos
Sponsor logos affixed to the hull. Take a break for a quick walk around San Sebastian.
Communication skills
Working in 4 languages, Spanish, Swedish, Russian and English is a fair test of communication skills. My Russian is as good as Pavel's Spanish, which results in a fair bit of drawings on paper to explain to each other what exactly is being said. Upside: Communication can be surprisingly articulate and clear.
March 13, 2006
Inventory check
Oliver included some surplus expedition food and equipment with the boat. This equipment had to be added to the inventory and prioritized based on requirements, space and weight. Next was testing different kinds of dried meat to take on board, bearing in mind that they would have to survive tempreatures of 36 degrees in the day and humidity at nights. Jamon Serrano and Corned Beef were the winners.
