We left Nai Harn Bay in Phuket at 10:45 yesterday in 20 knots of northeast wind. We really enjoyed Thailand - hot days, cool nights, friendly, courteous smiling people, cheap, tasty food, great beaches, and minimal corruption. (The only corrupt official was the immigration officer, who noticed that Paul (who was away on the boat) had failed to sign his entry permit, normally a heinous offence. Instead of dismissing us, he glanced at Paul's signature elsewhere, did an excellent forgery and winked, putting his finger to his lips!!).

We've had wonderful sailing since we set off, with 15 - 20 Kn of northeasterly monsoon just behind our starboard beam. What a joy to feel that familiar old surge of the ocean beneath our deck as Hygeia leans her shoulder into the rolling swell again. She's pleased to be out in the open sea once more. We had a lovely visit from some dolphins as dawn broke today.

We're in close company with Mazy and Yang Shou, and two NZ boats are 10 miles southof us, so we don't feel lonely. Now only 972 miles to Sri Lanka, so ETA round about 20/01.

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