After a turbulent start and very changeable conditions, the fleet finally sailed in moderate but unsettled conditions. With wind directions between 233 and 299 degrees, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing made the slowest speed of 9.6 knots in the morning's position report. Ian Walker's team was the first to tack a northerly course, with the others following. This meant that Abu Dhabi was the furthest north in the fleet, but also the furthest west.
The boats to the east had more wind, Team SCA, the furthest south, was still making 18 knots. But the speeds of all of them were to drop further and further the further north they travelled. On the way to the east coast of Madagascar there is an area of high pressure with light, circulating winds. It's not unlikely that the fleet there will once again bunch together as it did shortly after the start off Cape Town and that there will be some kind of restart. It will probably also take a bit of luck to get away well.
On board Team Alvimedica
A video from on board the Alvimedica gives an impression of how tight it still is in the middle of the ocean. It clearly shows the decision-making process that leads to a simple jibe.
