Jocara Newsletter
July 17, 2005

This newsletter comes rather soon after the last, but we thought you might 
appreciate news 'hot off the press'.

As of 04:40 UTC 17 July we have jury-rigged our old boom as a mast with an 
unholy mix of rope, half the world's supply of shackles and several sets 
of block and tackle.  We have used our new mast to raise an improved 
temporary HF antenna.  This morning we raised a sail sideways to make a 
reaching Genoa giving us 3.5 knots in 15 knots of wind just forward of the 
beam.  We are presently headed towards Gan in Addu Atoll, Maldives.  We 
have 100 litres of diesel remaining, giving us a motoring range of approx. 
100 n.m.  Gan is 165 n.m. distant.  Our position is 0 deg. 19.0'N, 75 deg. 
43.46'E.  We have moderate wind from the NW and moderate seas, overcast 
(but clearing) with no squall activity.  

If mild and favourable conditions persist we expect to be able to sail 
within our fuel endurance of Gan.  We have asked that vessels should not 
inconvenience themselves on our behalf at this time.  We will continue to 
post updates.  The severity of our situation has steadily reduced from 
initial alarm (Yes! I finally got to fire off a red flare in anger! And 
call a Pan Pan!) to managed inconvenience.  Let's hope it stays that way.

Meanwhile we've had many countries and authorities piling in with offers 
of assistance, a truly-heartwarming international response.  Vessels from 
Australia, US, China and India have all become involved in plans to 
rendevous with us at some point over the last couple of days, co-ordinated 
by Ham radio operators from Thailand to Chagos and the Maldivian Coast 
Guard.  It's quite embarrassing to be the cause of such a fuss.

So, our sincere thanks to all of you out there who have leaped to our 
rescue.  You can stop worrying now.  I think...

John, Caro, Casper and Alex (plus Star and Cannelle).