Transfer Strategy

The plan was to leave Rome Monday 24th July but Murphy hit again. In fact the week-end would have been perfect for the transfer with favorable wind conditions from SE to S and SW.  However, as one crew member will only arrive Sunday evening from Germany, we planned to leave Monday around noon.
Unfortunately, a Mistral is building up over the Golf of Lion during the week-end which will release its strongest force through the Strait of Bonifacio into the Tyrrhenian Sea Monday and Tuesday. This would mean some 30+ knots of wind and 2-3 m waves directly on our nose which of course is a 'No-Go'.

Strong winds from W cover the Central Tyrrhenian Sea caused by a Mistral over the Golf of Lion: GFS Forecast model (Copy from www.windfinder.com)

Looking at different forecast models, we developed a strategy which will take us a bit more of time but nevertheless ensure a fast and safe transfer.

The plan is now to leave Tuesday 25th July morning around 08h00 and first head to NW and change course towards W with the rotating wind staying at the same time within a channel of moderate wind conditions.

Mistral over the Golf of Lion with jet effect caused by the the Strait of Bonifacio (channel between Corsica and Sardinia). (copy from www.windfinder.com)

We will carefully watch the forecast models and if needed, adapt our transfer strategy accordingly.