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4/30/97 From Ralph
Talked with Mike and passed information received from Steve Re: the floppy drive. They asked that you send it to the shipping address as stated in your E-mail to me, Papeete, French Polynesia, to arrive there about the middle of May. They are leaving tomorrow for RANGIROA, with an overnight stop at another bay on Nuki HIva to pick up supplies. RANGIROA is about a week's sail. Mike's back still sore, but getting better slowly. Lorie caught hand in hatch and has a sore hand. Darrell all OK. Not much else. Expect to talk to them tomorrow evening.
4/29/97 From Bill Chaffin
I do not think that Ralph talked to Mike last night. Signals were very good and Mike visited with many hams. They are still on Nuka Hiva (sp?) and having fun. Tonight, Wednesday, they plan on having a traditional dinner with an island family, that is if the goat gets killed. After the feast they will likely depart for Rangiroa on Friday where they plan to stay for a week or so. They expect to arrive in Papeete in two to two and one half weeks. They may not be on the air on Wednesday due to the party. All seems well, they are having fun.
Good contact with Mike this evening. He was a little late having just got back from a hike to HATIHEU Bay. Joined crew from "Neredies", Toni and Rick, and a French couple, Garnard and Christian, on the hike. Has a few aches and pains with a sore back from the walking and climbing. Natives climbed the coconut trees and picked green coconuts. Different from the Brown ones. Meat is soft and creamy, but very sweet. Also, drank the milk which was quite good. Another boat "Sailaway", arrived which had made the crossing ahead of Escapade. The Island is beautiful and scenic with lots of food, coconuts and mangos. They don't know when they are leaving as yet since they are enjoying it so much.
4/27/97 From Ralph
Sorry, but have had time constraints and unable to send E-mail messages the last few days. Talked to MIke the 24th, 25th, and last evening the 26th. On the 24th I was able to ask about two charges for Barbara. Both OK. Large one is a returnable bond deposit. They had just arrived at ANAHO Bay on the north side of Nika Hiva. It is beautiful and from the Bay it rises up to volcanic mountains.
On the 25th they had additional discussions with W6PRA regarding the solar panels. Darrell was talking to friends, met in TAIOHAE Bay, as they arrived here. The boat was "Neredies" with Rick (OM) FO0KNR and Toni (YL) FO0KNI aboard, who are from Los Angeles. I think Mike said they were anchored outside the reef.
Yesterday afternoon (26th)I had a call from Jim Poole, Mike"s father in Wilmington, DE who is just back from Ireland and wanted me to send his love to Mike and Lorie. He had been able to follow Steve's HomePage on the Internet from Ireland. Mike sure appreciated that message last evening. Mike and Lorie went to a more or less deserted beach, HAA TUA TUA. where there were wild horses and lots of palms with cocoanuts. They got thirsty and decided to break open a cocoanut for the water but in smashing the cocoanut they lost almost all of the water. Now they are probably going to acquire a machete so that in the future they can knock the top off, like the natives do, and drink the water like out of a cup. They really enjoy meeting the local people. Purchased a stack of bananas, about 600, for about $6.00. MiIke said they are going to stay there at ANAHO another day.
4/25/97 From Chuck
Radio contact was made with Mike last night 04/25/97. He reported being awaken in the early morning by roosters crowing around 6:30am. There is no need for an alarm clock. The southerly trade winds are blowing keeping the temperature very pleasant. He said this is a beauitful place, and there are lots of coral reef. They had to use a gig to find a path thru the reef to the shore. The crew met some families living there, but had a difficult time communicating. Everyone speaks French, and they
speak very little. Some other radio contacts were; Bob W6PRA, Rich W6YGQ. The crew met Tony FO0KNI and Rick FO0WNR from Los Angeles. Tony and Rick's boat is name Nerdies. No radio contact with John ZL2AWG from New Zealand tonight. Bob W6PRA is still working with the crew trying to resolve the voltage regulator problem. It sounds like they have the resolution. Bob is shipping parts for the repair. The boat's batteries are now being charged by engine power.
4/24/97 From Chuck
I made radio contact with Mike tonight 04/24/97. He reported they had just arrived at Anaho Bay, on the north side of Nuku Hiva island. They are presently anchored in a lagoon. He can see very tall volcanic peaks, and pineapples growing almost to the ocean's edge. There are lots of coconut palm trees, and this is the driest side of the island. He was told only four families live here. Mike made radio contact with Bob W6PRA, Rich K6YGO, Ralph N6ADJ, KF6HVD and a New Zealand station John ZL2WG. The crew is fine and still having a great time. That's all for this time.
4/24/97 From Ralph
Mike was not up last evening but had a good signal this evening. From discussions with Bob, W6PRA, regarding the voltage regular and diode box hookups, Mike believes they now have the solar panels hooked up OK. Still have to get the right hookup for the wind generator. MIke and Bob are continuing tonight to discuss this problem.
Mike and Lorie finished their dive lessons yesterday. This will be their last day at TAIOHAE Bay in Nuka Hiva. Tomorrow they hope to move to another bay on Nuka Hiva - ANOHO bay.
Talked to Mike on Escapade this evening. All is going well at Taiohae Bay in Nuka Hiva Island. Crew went to Tahitian dance affair last night. At one point the lady and men dancers picked people from the audience to do the Hula. One lady picked Darrell and Mike says "Darrell gave it a good try". Today Darrell went to church. Listened to the music while Mike and Lorie went for Scuba lessons. Lorie was certified 8 years ago and is doing a refresher course. Mike said they saw a big Manta ray and a big Hammerhead Shark who are scared of divers. Also a black tip Reef Shark that is not aggressive. The white tip Reef Shark is aggressive, but they did not see oneof these.
Message for Rick Nachman:
Mike and Darrell need you to call W6PRA, Bob at 909-864-3295 regarding how you wired the multisource voltage regulator and diode box for the solar panel and wind generator. They need to know something about the blue wire. Bob would like you to call by tomorrow afternoon so he can help Mike and Darrell on their radio contact tomorrow evening. Also, W6PRA, Bob's, E-mail address is W6PRA@Juno.com. That's it. Any messages or comments send E-mail to me at RJESCHBORN@AOL.COM, or n6adj@juno.com.
4/19/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Escapade still in Nuka Hiva. Mike wasn't on the radio last night since he was late getting back from scuba diving lessons. He said the lessons went well. They towed them slowly through hundreds of dolphins; Mike said it was wonderful and exciting. Said "this is really paradise". Attended affair of local dancers. A son of Augustine the wood carver guided them to the waterfall which rises 1600 feet above sea level. Another son of Augustine was one of the local native dancers. They plan to go tonight to see the tahitian dancers.
Barbara's mail arrived and they received the E-mail messages she included. Mike would like to reply to several of these E-mail messages.
Paul and June, Lutheran Church. "Thanks for your thoughts".
Renee Baddgirl, "Eating lots & lots of tropical fruit".
Chuck Compton, "Good to hear your doing well. Computer still down".
Heather Figlioli, "I, MIke, am open to suggestions to have school children follow trip. Need address so can write you."
Escapade is moving the middle of next week to another island, "HA POU".Nothing further at this time. Hope to talk to Escapade again tonight.
4/20/97 From Chuck
I made radio contact with Mike tonight 04/19/97. He reported taking daily scuba diving lessons. The boat's battery charging system is only working from engine power. He is working with Bob W6PRA and Varris W5IZN to resolve the problem, and It seems like they are almost there. The crew is doing fine, and will be on the Nuku Hiva Island for a few more days. They are going to Polynesia festival tonight. That all for now.
4/17/97 From Ralph
Mike talked with another ham from Riverside or San Bernardino again about their voltage regulator problem for the solar panels and the wind generator. They are trying to get things straightened on the wiring connections and the diodes. Had a nice E-Mail from Barbara Sausser re: modem and other things which was received before the radio contact. Barbara also included six (6) E-Mail messages for the crew of Escapade which she (Third Tier) received from Dureena, Howard Fuller, Paul & June, Arnold Rowe, Matt Poole, and Heather Figlioli, a Edison Elementary School Teacher in Morton Grove, IL whose school has a web page Http://ny,frontiercomm.net/~bjenkin/edison.html.
Barbara's messages and all six (6) other messages were read to the crew of Escapade. In reply the crew sends their thanks to all for these messages. Mike suggests that Heather try to find a Ham radio operator in her area to contact him on our schedule every evening on 14340 KHz USB beginning at 0230 GMT to discuss the two questions contained in her E-Mail message. All in well in Nuka Hiva with Escapade. Mike may be late for our radio contact tomorrow evening since he will probably be taking scuba lessons.
4/16/97 From Chuck
I made radio contact with Mike (FO0POE) and the crew tonight. My radio station is back on the air again. Mike reported that the ocean water around there is very warm, about 80 degree F. He also said that the water is very cloudy, or maybe muddy. The island is a really beautiful place, but don't look for hotels as we know them. They will be leaving tomorrow for Daniel's Bay and will see a big, beautiful water fall. They will be there a while, and probably no radio contact on Wednesday (4/16/97). The crew is fine and having lots of fun.
4/16/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked at some length with Mike on Escapade this evening. Mike has his French Polynesia reciprocal ham license with the call "FO0POE". Told Escapade that I'd talked to Barbara on the phone early this evening. She and Darrell had talked on the phone last evening but she wanted to pass on a few additional thoughts and this was accomplished. They had cleaned the bottom today and were leaving tonight or in the morning to go to Daniel's Bay, then dinghy up the river and were invited to Daniel's for dinner. They will probably stay awhile, and Thurs throught Sunday Mike and Lorie may take scuba lessons to get their dive cards. They will then take off to go south to OA POU Island with other boats. After that on to RANGIROA Island. Oh, by the way, they wanted Barbara to know that there really is not such a thing as a Hotel as we know them on Nuka Hiva.
4/15/97 From Tony in Indiana
I was able to make a short contact with Mike and Darrell last evening 2:30 utc 4/15/97. I told Darrell that Ralph would be on the radio tonight with a message from Barbara. Mike was able to get his Poynesian call on 4/14/97 It is FO0POE. TONY YODER N9JTZ SOUTH BEND INDIANA.
4/15/97 From Barbara Sausser
Received a call from Darrell tonight. They are enjoying the scenery and will take a 3 mile hike on Wednesday up to
some waterfalls with a guide - upon returning they are having a meal with his family. Also bringing back to the boat lots of fruit, etc. from his place. Tomorrow they will clean bottom of boat of "stuff" that has grown there in the warm water. They plan to stay in Nuka Hiva over the weekend because there is some kind of wood carving gathering and then will let us know where they are headed. It is some 500 miles to Papeete, Tahiti, but there are many places to stop and look around in between so it may be a while before they get there. I asked for an address after Papeete but so far they don't know.
Darrell says the crossing was quite boring and they were glad to see land. Back to the mail. It is taking at least 10 days to 2 weeks for air mail to Papeete and then another week at least to the islands. So far they have received a couple of letters in Nuka Hiva but have not gotten a large brown envelope that I sent. It has been at least 3 weeks since I sent the mail. Darrell says cruising is much harder work than any of them anticipated. Not as much fun as it is pictured.
4/11/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Mike Poole, who was on another boat, "Sea Glass" from Newport Beach, CA, also named Mike, who had his French Polynesian ham license, FO0SPI (US KF6EXA). Mike P. was unable to get his reciprocal license today, but expects to have it on Monday and we will be in contact Monday evening, 4/14.
Congratulations are in order for the Crew of the Escapade, as they have made their long Pacific crossing and have completed another leg of their journey. Signals were good into Dallas, TX this pm. 0215z this evening finds the Escapade approx. 12-13 miles outside the Territorial Waters of French Polynesia and "sailing in the wrong direction" so they can make their radio contact schedule today. This gave Darrell the opportunity to talk to his brother, Dwayne, by phone patch through Ralph in Calif. Darrell says "There are 4 large Islands in the Marquesas group. I don't know yet if we will be able to visit all of them or not". "We'll be here about a week". This was the last phone patch the Escapade will be able to make until they leave The French Polynesia Territory as there is no third-party agreement with the United States permitting phone conversations via Amateur Radio by non licensed persons. Information for the next "week or two" will be limited to reports from Ham Radio Operators and/or land based telephone calls from the Crew of the Escapade and posted to Escapade WebPage. Mike reports that the first small Island they went by today was Ua Huka. (May be sic, I'm not a polynesian.) "It's hot and humid, like you've never been hot and humid in your life". "The winds have died down for evening and Boy! is it hot".There was some semi-technical discussion on the wind generator regulator problem with Bob, back here stateside, and Darrell. This is one area of Bob's expertise and with the input from Darrell he will be able to "localize" the problem and resolve it.We'll see tomorrow if Mike gets his license or if he has to wait until Monday. Mike's information via the Maritime Net indicates that "Sometimes, they are closed on Friday".
And now for Lorie's report: I spoke with Lorie,(Mike had to wake her up, she was taking a "catnap"). This is for Samma (Lorie's sister). "My day consisted of getting up early to stand my watch. Cooking, reading, writing and working on my "project". It's a little "Wind Scoop" I'm trying to design, to fit into one of the windows to get a little air into the cabin. It is so hot in here, especially at night". Mike again states,"It's extremely hot and incredibly humid". "I'm looking forward to getting ashore." "We've still got plenty of fish". "We'll probably take down the sails for the night and go ashore in the morning." "The next thing I want is a shower and a glass of beer." And to the Ham Radio Operators from Mike: "My heartfelt thanks to all You Guys out there." "If it wasn't for the Ham Radio Operators, only 3people would be enjoying this trip." "It is so nice to be able to share with friends and family back home, and with hundreds of people everywhere." "I'm gonna be real sorry when this trip is over and we can't do this anymore."
I talked to Mike on 14.340 tonight 4\10\97 from my home here it Bryan/ College Station, Tx (Home of Texas A&M Univ). The time was 2245 local time, I was his last contact for the night he had to go up on deck to take his turn at steering the boat. His location was 13 Miles off the coast of Marquesas Island and was expecting to make landfall around daybreak. I had a very good copy on him and very little QRM. That comet has been good for something besides looking at !!! Good luck to all and may the wind be at your Back !
Bill KC5SCC
4/10/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Mike and Escapade sailed past the first Island "UA HUKA" after sighting it at about 10 AM. They picked up NUKA HIVA at about 2 PM and decided to stay outside the 12 mile limit in International waters so they could make radio contacts tonight. Weather there is HOT and HUMID. They can hardly wait to get showers with plenty of fresh water. Propagation was quite good and I was able to do a phone patch for Darrell. He had a nice chat with his brother Dwane (sp?).
They have hopes of getting their reciprocal ham license tomorrow in Nuka Hiva and if successful will be on the radio tomorrow night from the harbor. If no license they won't be on the air again until Monday evening.
Mike has excellent signals coming into Dallas, Texas this pm. Mike reports his position as of 0200z as 08,04S and 138,21W. They are 115 miles from Nuka Hiva. Escapade traveled 120 miles yesterday. The weather has been hot and humid. They've had flat seas for the last two days. The wind died out at sunset and they're coasting along at 1 1/2 knots. Mike says, "Doing great, 115 miles to go. I can almost smell the Island". "This is our 23rd day at sea. Boy! are we ready to see landfall". "That Tuna was good. We're well fed, fat, and happy." "We've got plenty of it left. I don't think we can eat it all before it goes bad." They have a bet to see which one of them,"can learn to walk on dry land again first." They have a small problem with the wind generator regulator (sounds like a shorted diode in one of the inputs). Tony made phone patches for Lorie and Darrell. If we don't hear them on the air for this evening's radio contact, it should mean that they are very close ( In French Polynesia Territorial Waters). Mike will not be able to transmit until he aquires a reciprocal radio license. This should only take a couple of hours once they arrive. There is always the possibility that we may not hear from Mike until Friday or, with the weekend, Monday. Ham Operators will continue to monitor 7.093 mhz recieve and transmit on 7.040 mhz(split) at 0215z and 14.340 mhz after 0230z. There has been a request to mention more about Lorie, "all we ever hear, is that Lorie's cookin'". Well, Lorie says, That's about all she's been doin', "I spend about 2 hours a day in the galley". Lorie says they might have to spend about 6 months in Australia or the Fiji's thru the hurricane season.
4/9/97 Ralph
This evening Escapade was at 8 deg 04 min S and 138 deg 21 min W. They made 120 miles today and only have 115 miles to go to the Marquasas Islands, but may not make it tomorrow unless they pick up the trade winds again. They have been somewhat becalmed for the last 6 hours and are only doing about 2 knots.
I may not be able to contact them tomorrow if they are in French Polynesia until they get a reciprocal ham license from the French. My plan is to monitor each night on 14340 KHz at 7:15 PM until I pick Mike up again.
Not much else at this time. Mike has a San Bernardino ham station running phone patches to friends and family since they are local calls and don't have to be made collect.
4/8/97 Ralph
Escapade at 0130 GMT (6:30 PM PDT) was at 6 deg 58 min S and 136 deg 40 min W. They made 127 miles today and have 2 days to go (231 miles) to the Marquasas Islands (Nuka Hiva). Hams will not be able to talk to them until they get their French Polynesia Ham license and then they will not be able to do phone patches since the United States does not have a third party agreement with French Polynesia. Hams can talk to them after they get their license and then relay messages by putting it on E-Mail. Our contact was interrupted for about 20 minutes while they boarded a 30 pound Tuna and filleted it. They will be eating well. Weather is good with some waves. They fixed the steering vane last evening by replacing the nut which came off and all OK now. Did a phone patch for Darrel to talk to Barbara. Not much else at this time. Tomorrow will probably be the last contact till they get their French Polynesia ham license.
4/7/97 Ralph
Talked to Escapade this evening. Their position at 0215 GMT was 5 deg 42 min S and 135 deg 00 min W. They have 358 miles to go and made (due to the currents) 135 miles today. They have strong trade winds 15 - 18 knots. Lots of chop. Waves are short and choppy. Bouncing around somewhat. Lost propeller on wind generator, but solar panels doing good. The may make landfall on Thursday. They did phone patch to Gale Nachman (Rick not there) through a local ham. Were going to contact Barbara, but they had to cut it short in order to repair their wind vane. Did let them know that Barbara had sent mail to address in Nuka Hiva, and had belts and filters and would send them to Papeete.
Talked to Mike tonight first on split frequency 40 meters, and then moved to 20 meters 14340 KHz. At 0215 GMT, Escapade was at 4 deg. 31 min S and 132 deg 42 min W. They had 513 miles to go and had made 134 miles today. Afternoons have been hot and humid with light rain 3 or 4 times a day. They try to get a shower during the rain but many times it doesn't last long enough. Temperature has been about 85 degrees For the hams. Tomorrow evening we will start on split frequency at 7:15 PDT. Mike TX 7093 and RX 7240 KHz. Then we will move to 14340 KHz. After tomorrow we will probably start on 20 meters 14340 KHz at 7:15 PM PDT.
4/6 Tony
My name is Tony, WB6D, Ham Radio operator. I live in San Bernardino and I contacted Mike today on 20 meters. We talked for a while, and I made a phone patch with one of his co-workers Mike Austin. He told me that he is about 530 miles from the Marquesas Islands. I will listen for Mike tomorrow again. My e-mail is awf4@worldnet.att.net
.4/5/97 Dave McNeil
Contact with Escapade this evening : Mike reports his position as of 0200z as 03 31S, 130 42W. 647 miles to go to the Marquesas. They have traveled 138 miles yesterday. Mike says this has been the best day since before they crossed the equator, "no rain,steady wind, 10 to 15 knots although it's down to 8 now. Wind from the East-Southeast, not too rough, not too hot, not too humid. Just a beautiful day". Mike has discovered the "Hearts" game on Darrells' computer so he's been passing the time playing cards. "At first I got annoyed because the computer was beating me". There has been some discussion whether they were going to Nuka Hiva first as they had planned or to Nuka Oah (may be sic) due to the prevailing winds. They are still trying to make up their minds which it will be. They will be glad to make landfall and "stretch their legs". "You really can't imagine what it's like to see the same thing, the same people, every day. It's really easy to lose track of what day it is". Mike tried, through Ralph , to call his brother Matt, but he wasn't at home. Lorie prepared Teriyaki beef and Mike made some "pressure cooker bread". "Sailing is fun, but, thirty days straight kinda gets to be a drag".
4/? 97 Tony
Steve, I talked to Mike saturday and sunday evenings. They are doing very well moving along at 7 knots in a steady 10-15 knot wind. They made 138 miles on sunday.They have 647 miles till landfall Mike thought they would be reaching land sometime Friday if all goes well.We had very good conditions on 14.340 last night. We had a nice long chat about cooking fishing etc. (they have lost all theire good fishing lures to big fish) Mike told me Lori bakes bread in a pressure cooker on top of the stove at low heat to keep the boat from getting so warm. Mike asked me to ask you to keep all of the e-mail address on record for him if you would.He wants to send thank you notes to every one who has been riding along on the trip via radio.
4/5/97 Ralph
Escapade position at 0200 GMT (6:00 PM 4/5/97) was 3 deg 31 min S and 130 deg 42 min W. They have 647 miles to go. Made 138 miles today. Weather beautiful, no rain, wind about 10 - 15 knots. Speed about 7 knots. Temperature really nice and it is not longer humid. We tried phone patch to Matt (Mike's brother) but he was not home - got his recorder.
Talked to Mike this evening 4/4/97 at 6:20 PM and their position at 0200 GMT is 2 deg 32 min S and 128 deg 36 min W. They have had gentle rain, during which they take showers althought sometimes it quits and they might not get the soap off. They experienced some becalmed periods since yesterday and only made 78 miles since yesterday. They have 785 miles to go. For Bill Chaffin - Mike would like you, Bill, to call Tony WB6D and give him our schedule. We try to make contact at 6:15 PM pm. 40 meters split frequency. Mike TX on 7093 KHz and Rx on 7240 KHz. If signals are weak, we go to 14340 on 20 meters. Tonight 20 meters was much better and Mike got to chat with brother Andy back East for awhile. Later he and Lorie had phone patch to friends back home. (Local call with local Ham WB6D who was on frequency.) For Bill Chaffin, while I was writing this message heard Mike and WB6D get together, so he has probably figured things out.
4/3/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Mike on Escapade on split frequency. Mike Tx on 7093 Khz and RX on 7240 Khz. Their position at 0215 GMT was 1 deg 56.00" S and 127 deg 27.77' W. Made 118 miles today and mentioned that they did 108 miles yesterday. They have 863 miles to go. Barbara's questions sent to me on Email were passed on to Escapade. With regard to the filters and belts, they would like them sent to Papeete. On the mail Barbara has already sent, they wanted to know whether it was send to Papeete and if so what address?. Barbara, please let me (Ralph) know later on this so I can reply back to them. Ran phone patch to Lorie's mother and they had a fairly good chat except their signal was somewhat up and down, In E-mail, Kq6IU asked what I was running here in Rancho Mirage. Well, I have a A3 Cushcraft beam with 40 meter extenders at 45 feet and I point to Southwest. Rig is Kenwood 940 TS exciting Kenwood 922-A Linear Amplifier. I don't run it full output. Usually running about 1000 watts. We agreed to operate split frequency tomorrow evening (7093 and 7240)
4/2/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Contacted Escapade this evening. They had crossed the equator at 0030 GMT at which time they, Darrell, Mike and Lorie, shared a bottle of champagne with King Neptune. Their position at 6:00 PM (0200 GMT) was 02 deg 04.50 S and 124 deg 09.12 W. They had made 116 miles since yesterday. Winds had been 8 knots from the Southeast but were dying. All Ok on Escapade. As we finished talking, skies were overcast and winds were calm. Only making about 2 knots. Phoned Barbara to bring her up to date.
I made radio contact with Mike today 3/30/97. He reported being about 1032 miles from the Marquesas Is. Their location is 2 deg 37.23 N and 121 degree 00.00 W. This is the half way point.The crew had surgar baked ham, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes with gravy and pumpkin bread for Easter dinner. The boat's main water tank is almost empty. A gallon of water per hour is being made to refill the tank. They have just survived about two days of stormy weather. That is it for this time.
3/31/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Contacted Mike on Escapade on split frequency. Mike Tx on 7083 and Rx on 7240 khz. We started on 7088 but due to interference moved to 7083 khz. Tomorrow we will again start on 7088 khz. Escapade position at 6:15 pm PST was 2 deg 37.32 N and 121 deg 00 W. They are in the ITCZ (InterTropicalConvergenceZone) and will be crossing the equator shortly. Their course is 210 deg magnetic (220 deg True). They made 125 miles since yesterday and are 1373 miles from Cabo. A little over half way since they have 1332 miles to go to the Marquesas Islands. Lorie fixed a great Easter dinner. Honey baked ham with cloves, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes with gravy, and pumpkin rolls. Made a phone patch to Steve Poole and he and Mike got to have a good chat.
3/31/97 From Dave McNeil
Just a note to let you know I talked to Mike after your phone patch this pm. Nothing more to add. The signals were extremly good tonight here in Dallas, it appeared from listening to your conversation that the signals into California were not as good as usual. Just to re-interate: The position given this evening was 02 37.32N, 121 00W, course 210 mag., 220 true. Distance from Cabo 1373 miles, distance to Marquesas 1332 miles. They've passed the halfway mark. They're about 2 1/2 degrees above the equator. Beginning to get Southeasterly winds. They've been averaging about 100 miles per day and expect to be in the Marquesas in about 14 days. Lorie surprised them with an Easter dinner of Ham w/cloves, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and gravy, and pumpkin bread.
Ham Operators: We made contact this evening on 7083khz. This was after initial contact on 7080. Mike plans to continue making initial contact on the split- frequency of 7080khz (Mikes transmit freq.) and 7240khz (Stateside transmit freq.) Then if we have to shift frequency look for Mike somewhere between 7080 and 7088khz. There were stations trying to make contact this evening transmitting on 7083 from the states.....note: Mike will not hear you, you must transmit on 7240.
Escapade reports her position as of 0130z this pm, as 04 34N, 120 19W. Course is 180 True. "There's a lot of rain all around us but it's warm rain, so we can get out on deck and take a shower".They're making a straight "run for the border" due to thunderstorms in the area. There's a big storm behind them to the Northwest where they came from. Mike reports they have 10 knot winds out of the east and they have travelled 111 miles today. As of 0120z they were 1240 miles from Cabo. Ralph made a phone patch for Darrell to Barbara. Darrell says they have about 1400-1500 miles to go, about 15 days, "It's going slower than I've anticipated". Mike apologizes for missing a few radio schedules but it was due to the weather and a clogged up fuel pump so they couldn't run the engine generator. They've since cleaned it out and put it back in service. They set out 2 lines behind the boat today but haven't caught anything yet, "We're hoping for another tuna". Mike reports they had some weather problems last night. "It was kinda scary last night, we had squalls, 30 knot winds, and lightning, but we followed the advice of the Maritime Net and changed course to due south to get out of it". "This trip has been longer than we thought". "Once we cross the equator we should pick up a westerly current and make pretty good time into the Marquesas. For the Ham Radio Operators: Mike will be transmitting on 7088 for the next few nights and listening on 7240. Mike says "For all you guys back in the States".."It's fun being a Ham Operator on a boat."
2/29/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Escapade this evening on split frequency since they are now Maritime Mobile in Region 3. Mike TX on 7088 khz and Rx on 7240 khz. They had a good day. Thunderstorms are to the East but no problem to them. Course is 180 deg True with winds from the East at 10 knots. Their position at 0130 GMT (5:30 pm PST) was 4 deg 35 min North and 120 deg 19 min West. Distance traveled from Cabo was an additional 111 miles which makes them 1248 mi from Cabo. They will continue traveling South until they reach the equator and then head West again. They have about 1400 to 1500 miles to go. Did a good phone patch between Darrell and Barbara. Darrell wants Barbara to ship to them at their destination, Fuel Filters # 95390 and 2 Gates alternator belts #7420 for spare parts.
3/29? From Ralph Eschborn
Was unable to make contact with Escapade last evening since they were not on the air due to low batteries. Also they kinda had a tough night for 10 to 12 hours due to rain, squalls & some lightning as they progressed south between about 9 degrees to 6 degrees North latitude. They made 117 miles yesterday. They also had to do maintenance on the engine fuel system to run the engine to charge the batteries and use the radio. All is Ok and they currently have 8 to 12 knots of wind from the ENE. Their position at 1834 GMT (10:34 am PST) was 5 deg 11.93 N and 120 deg 12.55 W. They are presently steering a course of 180 degrees True until they cross the Equator and they will then turn West. We will make contact at 6:15 pm this evening on split frequency ZYT Tx on 7080 and RX on 7240 khz. If no contact, will QSY to 14340 khz at 6:30 pm.
3/27/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Escapade had a good day. About 130 miles since yesterday. Their position was 8 deg 40.25 N and 119 deg 25.00 W. They altered course to the West to circumnavigate some thunder storms observed but didn't think they were going to have any problems with them. They are over 1000 miles from Cabo and estimate that they have about 1800 miles to go. Sailing has been good with\ 15 knots of wind. We made a good phone patch to Jennifer, Mike's sister back in the 410 area code, and they had a nice long chat. P.S. Split frequencies are Mike TX on 7080.0 and RX on 7240.0
3/27/97 From Dave McNeil
Escapade has good signals into Dallas this PM. Mike reports his position as 08 40.25N, 119 25.00W. They've passed the 1000 mile mark from Cabo and Mike "estimates" 130 miles traveled today, as the GPS was inside so it lost sattelite lock and the batteries went dead so present history was lost in GPS memory. They've changed course to a southwesterly track to avoid a thunderstorm about 40 miles ahead of them. They've been in the tradewinds all day and they have been "racing along" with the "Tradewind Clouds" (little puffy clouds just above the water that blow along with the Tradewinds). Darrell lost his favorite green and yellow feather fishing lure, the one thats been feeding them, during the night. "Something BIG took it, line, and everything during the night". Mike say's they've got about another 1800 miles to go, so figure about 18 days. "When the winds were light we ran the auto-pilot so we had a lot of time on our hands and got on each others nerves". "Now that the wind has picked up we have more work to do (helm, wefax, radio, preparing food) so we don't have time to be grouchy with one another". They have 6 foot swells today, "kinda bumps us around a little so we have to work at steering". Stephen..Mike tried to phone patch you this pm but only got your answering machine. So, he talked to his sister, Jennifer.
For the Ham Radio Operators: Mike will definitely be in region 3 tomorrow so split frequency will be in effect. Mike will transmit on 7080 and Stateside will transmit on 7240.
I made radio contact with Mike (KE6ZKY) today 03/26/97 on 40 meters. He reported their location to be (10 degree and 35.82 mins latitude) and (118 degree and 2.19 mins longitude). The trade winds are blowing pretty good now. They traveled about 107 miles today. The winds are blowing 4 to 6 knots, and choppy seas. Mike also reported that past 9 days no sighting of land or other boats. They almost caught another fish today. He will have to work a split frequency in a couple days. His transmit frequency will be 7.080MHZ and the others stations will be 7.240MHZ.
Good signals into Dallas this pm. Mike reports his position as of 0149z today as 10 35.82N, 118 25.91W on a heading of 196 mag., 205 true. He is now 882 miles from Cabo with 689 miles to go to the equator. They've progressed 107 miles today. This is the first time since their first day out that they've made better than 100 miles in a day. They are into the tradewinds now and sailing along at a pretty brisk rate. They're getting into "pretty good swells" and it's "kinda rocky and rolley". " It's nice to be sailing again", "Still eating the tuna that Darrell caught yesterday". "Haven't seen any boats, only whales and dolphins". "A whale came up by the boat today and sniffed around". "I can't tell you whatit's like to be cooped-up with 3 people in an area about the size of a kitchen". "It sure will be nice to see land again so we can "spread out"". And for the Ham Operators... Mike should be into region 3 by Friday. Split frequency operation. Mike will transmit on 7048khz.....States will continue to transmit on 7240 khz.
3/26/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Mike on Escapade this evening. Things are going better. Their position at 0149 GMT (5:49 PST) was 10 deg 35.82 N and 118deg 25.91 W. They made 107 miles since yesterday and are now at 882 miles from Cabo and 689 miles from the Equator. They are really pleased that they are now sailing along 4 knots when slow and 6 knots when fast.
3/25/97 From Chuck
I made radio contact with Mike this evening, 3/25/97, at 0231Z. The radio signals are very strong. We had a nice qso. Mike reported the crew's location to be (12 degree and 88.78 mins latitude) and (117 degree and 38.17 mins longitude). The winds have picked up to 10 knots. They traveled about 78 miles today. They are about 778 miles from Cabro San Lucas now. The crew caught another fish today, maybe a tuna. It made a very delicious dinner. Mike reported that in about two day we will have to operate at a split frequency. He will transmit at 7.080MHZ and every one else will transmit back on 7.240MHZ. Well, the winds are blowing again and the crew is in good spirits. I will end with that.
3/25/97 From Dave Mcneil
Signals from The Escapade into Dallas this pm were not as strong as usual as I had a lot of QRM (static,interference). Mike reports that they have had a good wind all day but it "has crapped out" now, so they are presently under power. Position is 12 08 47N, 117 38 19W. Distance from Cabo is 778 miles. They have traveled 83 miles today. Ralph made a phone patch for Lorie to her sister. Mike says Darrell caught a fish today. They don't know what it was "but it sure tasted good". They still expect to be in the Marquesas in about 3 weeks.
3/24/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Talked to Mike and Darrell on Escapade last evening at 6:00 p.m. All is well aboard Escapade. At 0219 GMT (6:19 PST) their position was Lat. 13 deg. 20.18 Min. North and Long. 116 deg. 57.19 min.West. They were 695 miles from Cabo and 875 miles from the equator. They had only made 61 miles since yesterday. Skies were overcast with light and variable winds from the North and Northwest. Their course is 196 deg. magnetic or 206 deg. true. They hadhad a big whale around the boat and a school of dolphins that played around for awhile. We did a phone patch to Barbara and Darrell got to wish Barbara a happy aniversay and then talk at some length to Barbara and daughters Ann and Alicia.
I had a nice long qso (radio contact) with Mike this evening on 20 meters (14.340 MHZ) at 0219Z. The crew's location is latitude 14 degree 59 mins and longitude is 115 degree and 35 mins. They are doing fine but bored at the slow pace now. The wind is blowing very lightly from the north, and has been less than 5 mph for the last two days. They are traveling at a rate of 2 knots now, and went 52 miles today. They are about 576 miles out from Cabo San Lucas. The wind generator isn't keeping the batteries charged up so the contacts will be short and some days no contacts. The nightly meeting has changed to 20 meters (14.340 MHZ) at 0215Z hrs. Mike reported the stars are very bright at night, and seeing a green flash on the horizon at sunset. He also mentioned maybe hearing voices from the sea. That is it for this time!!!! CHUCK, KQ6IU
Just talked again with Mike and have some updated information for you. The past two days have been calm with little wind, maybe 3 kts. On Saturday they made 53 miles and today 73 miles. Their current position is 14 degrees 39 minutes North and 115 degrees 33 minutes West. They have caught no more fish but do see flying fish alongside the boat. They report that the skies are very clear and can even sail by starlight if there was no moon. Mike reports seeing the "Green Flash" again. They are 998 miles from the equator at 123 degrees. After crossing they will again alter course for the islands.
Mike reports that there is not enough wind to make the wind generator turn so they cannot sufficiently charge their batteries. Tonight they used their motor to make communications but they cannot continue to do this.
Of interest to Amateur Radio Operators:
If they get wind to charge the batteries they will try and maintain the following schedules. If no luck with batteries keep listening and they will come up when they can.0215Z 7.240
0230Z 14.320
0330Z 14.313 They will check into Maritime NetThat's about it but Mike asks amateur operators to keep listening even if they do not hear him for a day or two.
Made radio contact with Mike again this evening at about 03:40 GMT. Good signals here in Dallas this evening. Wind direction slowly shifting due to a low pressure area and he will make a small change in his track in order to keep as favorable as possible wind and to miss the low pressure area as the wind flow is in the wrong direction. He still has approx. 1000 miles to go to the equator. He says "Up till this point it has been beautiful sailing. Nice steady breeze, calm seas". As of now he's about 400-450 miles out of San Cabo. About 16,42 N...114,27 W on a heading of 200 degrees. Speed has slowed to about 4 knots, winds have dropped to 10. Having to run the engine to keep the batteries up. Low clouds but can see plenty of stars.
Ralph should be thinking about a contingency plan concerning shorter schedules perhaps, he suggested 40 meters at 6:15 pm (Pacific time) for about 15 minutes and if no contact, then move to twenty meters, or some other means to conserve battery power in case the winds continue to drop. As of now there is not enough to run the wind generator.
Just for drill, I did have him cut back transmitter power to 50 and then to 25 watts instead of the 100. I still had perfect copy here in Dallas with an S-5 signal. I'm sure he could've maintained at 10 watts but we didn't try. 20 meters seemed longer into Dallas tonight than they were on the West Coast.
3/20/97 From Bill Chaffin
Report for today is that at 0100Z they were at Latitude 16 degrees 51 minutes North and Longitude 114 degrees 22 minutes West. They are on a course of 200 degrees magnetic and in the last 25 hours they have traveled 146 miles. They are altering course to first cross the equator and then head for the island. They are now about 1129 miles from the equator and plan to cross at 123 to 125 degrees. The sailing has been superior and until this evening have been on a broad reach
3/19/97 From Bill Chaffin
Mike reports nothing really exciting just excellent sailing weather and very good progress.Their position at 0022Z on 3/20 was 19D 4M North and 113D 12 M WEST and Mike says they are 294 miles from Cabo and 2264 miles from next stop. They have been making a steady six knots. Their course is 299 degrees magnetic or 210 degrees true. They did 150 miles last day. They plan to cross the equator at 123 degrees West.
Of interest to Ham Radio Operators: They will try to keep the following schedule:
0215Z 7.240 MHZ
0230Z 14.340 MHZ
0300Z Maritime net 14.313 MHZ
3/18/97 From Dave McNeil
The Escapade was contacted this evening at 02:20 GMT. Ralph, N6ADJ, passed routine pm traffic. Mike, KR4EU, passed weather report. Darrell spoke with Barbara by radio phone patch through Ralph, N6ADJ. Mike reports that they are about 200 miles out, current position is 21,12 22.4 N Lat. and 111,41 16 W Long., they've made about 141 miles progress today. The wind is dying down somewhat from what it was yesterday. They are still maintaining about 6 knots but due, to less wind for the wind generator, the batteries are "lower than usual". They caught two Tuna today and "Lori came through again." she prepared them with some rice, "We made out like pigs", says Mike. "We've seen the green flashes for the last couple of days",.... could he be speaking of "St. Elmo's Fire"?? Mike expressed some concern about getting his French Polynesian radio license before he gets there, says "They've (meaning the Government) been known to confiscate radio equipment". Perish that thought...we wouldn't hear from him for awhile, would we. Stephen, about the NEC laptop...Mike says it is stowed at present but he will "dig it out" tonight and get the information and he will pass it on to you through Ralph, Chuck or myself tomorrow. To sum it up, I think two quotes from Mike during our conversation this evening says it all.....
"This is quite an experience, I wouldn't have missed it for anything." and
"This is the neatest thing I've ever done in my life."
3/18/97 From Ralph Eschborn
I talked to Escapade last evening (3/17/97) at 6:15 p.m. All OK. They were underway doing 6 knots on course of 215 deg. There position 0225 Z was 22 deg. 37.67 N and 110 deg. 07.45 W. They plan to minimize the use of the radio to conserve battery power, however should be up for short period at 6:15 p.m. tonight (3/18) on 7240.0 KHz. They will not be on the Baja net unless they need to get a message through. They also plan to give their position daily to Russ on the Manana Net 14340 KHz. between 1830 Z and 1930 Z.
On their crossing of the Pacific they will also try to check into the Sea Fairers Net, 14313, 0200 Z to 0300 Z and also the Pacific Maritime Net, 14313, which starts at 0300 Z.
3/18/97 From Barbara Sausser
This is from Barb tonight. Escapade has left the anchorage at Cabo for the first long leg of the cruise. It is 2640 miles to the first port, Baie Taiohae in the Marquesas Islands. Darrell gave me the date of April 10 as an approximate arrival time. They hope to be in radio contact with the "Eskimo". The radio call sign for Eskimo is WBH 7732. Eskimo is about 4 days out at this time. In a real emergency, to reach the Escapade, one must call the ATT High Seas Operator, KMI, 1-800-CALL-ATT. Ask for Escapade. The FCC call sign is WCW 8628. The cost is astronomical so it is best not to call unless it is a life or death matter.
To write to any of the crew, these are the addresses.
First port of entry
Yacht Escapade
Yacht in transit
% Keihahuni Inn
Baie Taiohae
Nuka Hiva Island
Marquesas Islands
French PolynesiaSecond port -
Yacht Escapade
Yacht in transit
Port Director
Papeete
Tahiti
French Polynesia
It is our understanding that they will hold mail for up to 30 days at either of these addresses. No one knows for sure about radio contact at this point in time. They think they will have contact for the first 500 to 1000 miles but that is just a guess. They are to report in every day at a certain time to a radio contact to give their exact location. Perhaps that information will be passed on to someone on the radio net for that area and then to someone here in the area.
I am sure they think they are ready for the trip or they would not have left. They have learned a lot about repairing things in the month they have been gone. Let's hope they don't have to do to much repairing and can concentrate on their journals and a little relaxing. The weather looks good out at least 1000 miles according to Darrell. That translates to favorable winds, I think. They now have fuel for a 1000 mile range, 400 more than they did have. The autohelm part arrived so that has been fixed. They have reprovisioned food in Cabo. At this point they are only 7 days late in leaving Cabo.
3/17/97 From Ralph
Talked to Escapade last evening at 6:15 p.m. on 7240. They are going to only use the radio when necessary to conserve battery power. At 0225 Z they were at 22 deg. 37.67 N and 110 deg. 07.45 W on a course of 215 deg.
3/17 From Tom Jimeson
Heard MIKE on 40 meters last night. He sounded good .Weather sounded real nice...Hope to talk to him tonight...Name is Tom Jimeson, from Hiawatha,KS
After Ralph N6ADJ had passed the evening traffic to Mike from California, I made contact, from Dallas Texas, and spoke with Mike again this evening aboard the Escapade. They've left Cabo San Lucas and are now on a heading of approx. 215 degrees toward the Marquesas in French Polynesia. Mike says to tell you that they had quite a send off as they were leaving Cabo. It so happened that, what they thought were boats off their port side, about a half a mile away, turned out to be whales. Mike says they noticed large splashes and it drew thier attention back to them just as one breeched. "It came clear out of the water except for the end of its tail." Mike received a weather report from Michael KR4EU through a relay from Freddie KE6OA. They expect good weather, smooth sailing and good prevailing winds for the next couple of days. Mike took the tiller for a short while while Darrell KF5FZR (The Skipper) came down and said a few words on the radio. It didn't last long as Darrell was not accustomed to listening through the noise produced by the on-board wind generator. Mike returned to give his position, as of 6:05 pm.(your time on the West Coast)(02:05 GMT) as 22,37.67 N / 110,04.45 W on a heading of 215 degrees at a speed of 6 knots with a 15-20 knot wind out of the West. He expects the Pacific crossing to take approx. 30 days. He says it looks as if it's going to be "Just me and Radio Operators for the next month." As of 7:00 pm. (on the West coast),(0300 GMT) Mike tells me that the GPS indicates they have 2,534 miles to go, to the next "Port of Call".
Talked to Mike on Escapade this morning by taking him off frequency from the Baja Net. He missed the schedule at 5:45 PM last night since they were in town. At 7:00 PM, the 20 meter band was dead and he did not hear us calling him and we did not hear him. The new auto pilot has arrived and is installed so they expect to leave Cabo today for the Marquesas Islands.
They want to minimize the use of their battery power and will not be using the radio nearly as much while they are crossing the Pacific. They do not plan to be on the Baja net anymore unless they want to get a message relayed to me. They will probably give their position each day to the Manana Net on 14340 but not on Sunday since there is no net on Sundays. Starting tonight they plan on short conversations on 7240.0 KHz at 6:15 PM California time each evening. I will try to have the Baja weather man, KR4EU Mike in Redwood City, give them weather each evening on this frequency.
Mike would like someone to pass this information on to N6OID(Craig),
KQ6IU(Chuck), W6PRA(Bob) and KK6FG(Bill).[ed. note: I think this message has already been emailed to these recipients]
3/15/97 From Chuck
I had another long conversation with Mike tonight 3/15/97 at 6:10 local time. He reported having some problem with the laptop computer, unable to run his fax program. The autopilot arrived today without the required mounting hardware. Darrell was trying to fabricate a bracket and install the unit. We hope the repair went well and they will be leaving Carbo San Lucas on Sunday or no later than Monday.
Starting tomorrow night Mike will make contact with Mike KR4RU in Redwood City, CA. at 7:00 pm local time on 20 meters ( 14.340 MHz) for nightly weather reports, but will still meet as usual on 40 meters ( 7.240 MHz) at 5:45 pm local time.
3/16/97 From Frank Fahrlander, N7FF
We chatted for quite a while with Mike yesterday afternoon while he was still at the marina in Cabo. We were operating using the tower and antenna from the Garlic Valley Amateur radio Club. Our little group operated this from the back yard of AC6LK's home in Morgan Hill, Ca. Morgan Hill is about 30 miles south of San Jose. Present were myself, N7FF, Hal, AC6LK and Thom, KD6CJX. We had a very enjoyable 20 meter SSB contact with Mike. He had a very strong signal and we chatted for 45 minutes or so. He shared some of his experiences near San Felipe where I have also spent a little time.
He was still waiting on parts when we talked. You may know this by now, but Mike reported he has a defunct diskette drive on his lap top computer. One of his hard disk resident programs went bad and his attempts to reload them using the diskette drive failed. He then determined he couldn't read any of his diskettes with that drive. He had someone look at it and they pointed out a mechanical problem. Since I work in the computer industry, I suggested some possible ways he might work around the problem. We had no luck however.
It was enjoyable talking with Mike and we wish him well on the voyage. I shall report his progress to our radio club.
3/15/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Bill, it was a pleasure to meet you and Luciana last evening at the AHPS dinner meeting. We enjoyed it very much. Had a QSO this evening with Mike and ran a patch for Darrell to Barbara. Reviewed your inputs in your Email sent yesterday AM. As you remember, Laurie's mother wanted to know if the crew had received the FAXes sent to them at the Broken Surfboard. The answer at first was negative except they then said they did get one FAX which said that another one was coming. The second FAX never arrived. They wonder if the correct FAX number was used. Therefore wanted to pass it along again. FAX at Broken Surfboard is: 011-52-114-30454.
That's it for now. Catch you later.
3/14/97 From Chuck, KQ6IU
I am Chuck KQ6IU (please make correction on the web site [not KP6IU]), and I am a good friend of Mike and Darrell. I made radio contact with the crew on 3/14/97 around ( 6:15 pm) 1815 hours local time. They caught a bus today and went to San Jose, and bought $10.00 worth of fresh vegetables from a local fruit market. They also had time for a little whale watching. It sounded like they are having a wonderful time. Hopefully the autopilot will arrive tomorrow. The reason for the delay is a long slow 1000 miles truck drive from San Diego, CA. If it arrives tomorrow they will leave by Sunday. The boat's sewage system was leaking and had to be repaired on Thursday, and new plumbing was installed.The crew is still in very good spirits, and they are ready to hit the high seas again. That's it for this time!!!
3/14/97 From Bill Chaffin
I talked again with Mike last night from the parking lot of the Power Squadron meeting. They are still awaiting the parts they ordered. Parts were to arrive on Thursday but did not. They continue to wait. Mike states that since they walk around to the non-tourist areas for shopping his Spanish is improving.
Nothing else new. Just wanted to keep you up to date.
3/11/97 From Bill Chaffin
I am, as I write to you, listening to Mike talking from CABO. We had a nice short conversation and all seems well. What CW means is Carrier Wave or in more words is a radio contact using morse code. We hope that it will not be necessary but if we lose voice contact for more than a day or two we will use the frequency of 7,038 KHZ at 1900 (That's 7:00 p.m. for the rest of us.)
They have ordered a completely new auto pilot and expect that it will arrive on Thursday 4/13/97. They plan to stay in and around CABO SAN LUCAS until it arrives and is installed. They may do some day sailing and even stop at another mooring until then.
We will be trying to make a mobile contact from my motor home parked at the parking lot where we have our Power Squadron dinner on Thursday night. No promises but it will be fun if successful.
I had a nice long, and for a change clear, conversation with Mike last night. He states that they are enjoying their time in Cabo but are also anxious to be on their way.
For the amateur radio operators Mike has agreed to set up a CW frequency and sked in case they are out of voice communications. The frequency is 7038 KHz and the time will be 1900 Pacific. This will only be used if we have been unable to contact them by SSB for a day or more. It is simply a safety. Mike asks that any attempts at CW communication be done very slowly as he has not been practicing his CW lately.They report some problems with auto helm steering equipment which will likely delay them a day or so in Cabo San Lucas. It might even require a detour to sail around to La Paz to acquire the needed parts.
3/9/97 From Bill Chaffin
I spoke to Mike last night but there was nothing particularly new except for one fact. The number he gave us at "The Broken Surfboard" is a FAX number and he wanted us to know he must pay about 4 pesos or 50 cents for each he receives. Also if you use this number itis required that you use the name of the vessel which, of course, is Escapade.
Mike reports that his Spanish is improving since he has to walk into the non tourist areas to obtain the necessary parts and supplies for the next, long, leg of his journey. He reports that there is another vessel, The Eskimo, about to depart for the Marquesas on Monday. It may be that they will travel in consort with them.
Mike also reports that upon leaving Cabo he may have to limit radio contacts since they will not be running the engine and the other charging systems will not allow so much radio time.
3/7/97 From Alicia
Well they made it to Cabo San Lucas on Tues. the 4th. We got to talk to Darrell by land phone, not a phone patch. It was much nicer, and a more in-depth conversation. They had to take the small motor into a shop; that is the motor that goes on the dink. All is well with them, and they seem to be having a good time..hehehe. Darrell says that Cabo is a large town..or maybe a city, but it has been hard to get a good line out on the phone. They are planning to leave out on Monday, so anyone who wants to send them an E-Mail should do it before Monday. Darrell will be checking the E-Mail until then, and I will pass it on to him as I get it....;)
After this it will be a long time before we shall have a land line to talk with them. If I remember right it's about or very near a month before they hit land again [actually, on the itinerary they first go to Sorcorro Island, about 260 nm southwest of Cabo, and then Clarion Island, about 260 nm due west, before heading for the Marquesas]. It will be a long haul for them. Let's all focus good and helpful thoughts their way....they will feel us with them if we do...;)
I also know Darrell said that the floppy drive went down on the laptop, so at this point. we will not be able to try the E-Mail via Ham Radio unless they can get that fixed. I have my fingers crossed that he can get it back working..so much fun. They did get the mast and engine problems taken care of....they seemed to be small problems..that is once they figured them out.
When I hear more I will let everyone else know about..so until we meet
again..see Ya..Alicia...;)
I had the opportunity to talk to Mike on Wednesday evening. They are anchored at Cabo San Lucas. All repairs have been made and they are preparing to continue their journey.
If anyone wishes to contact them by telephone it can be done until Monday morning. You can call at "The Broken Surfboard" and the number is 011-52-114-304-54.
Mike reports that they went to a time share presentation and received two free dinners and two breakfasts. They like Cabo but found it to be a very expensive town. They are preparing fishing materials to use on the next, long, leg of their voyage. Mike reports that they are having good views of the comet. It is bright each day in the morning sky.
This morning (Thursday) his batteries were low so although he was heard we could not establish communications. This afternoon zat 5:30 p.m. we will again attempt communications first on 80 meters and later on 40 meters.
3/4 From John Walker
Escapade left Mag. Bay March 2 and we caught up with them about 30 miles out of Cabo. They said that they could see the comet ( what comet ?). They have had good sailing, but currently there was no wind and were motoring. The trolling generator is not satisfactory and they will modify it to be powered by wind. Mike is in love all over again because Lori made some delicious bread in the pressure cooker and followed up with a batch of cinnamun rolls.
They arrived at Cabo March 3 in the evening and because they were in a convoy of 3 or 4 boats, they were able to light the way for each other. They will stay at Cabo until "at least Monday" when they will travel south before making a right turn for the Marqueses Islands.
Currently, they are on the Baja net at 7.238 MHz at 0800 daily, 3.946 MHz at 1730 daily and 7.240 MHz at 1745 daily.
3/4 From Ralph Eschborn
I talked to Mike, Darrell, and Lori this morning (March 4) at about 8:30 AM through the Baja Calif. Maritime Net. They have arrived in Cabo San Lucas and are at anchor in the harbor. Will probably be making some land-line phone calls up north. Have made repairs to the boat, including fixing number 4 cylinder on the engine.
They expect to remain in Cabo until about Monday, March 10th. Since I talk to them twice a day on ham radio, if anyone would like me to pass a message to them, please give me a call at (619) 568-6139 here in Rancho Mirage, CA (near Palm Springs).Here is a message for Bill Chaffin from Mike. Contact can be made on Ham radio in the morning on the Baja Net 7238.0 KHz at or after 8 AM Calif. time. In the evening our schedule is 3946.0 KHz at 5:30 PM and then we move to 7240.0 KHz at 5:45 PM. Bill, Mike and I will look for you at these times.
3/4 From Dave McNeil
My name is David McNeil. I am an amateur radio operator in Dallas Texas. Now.. If I in fact have the right person I would like to pass on the information that I have made contact with your brother, Mike, aboard the sailing vessel "ESCAPADE". I spoke with him at approx. 8:20 this pm. On 7.240 mhz. (40 meters). They were about 35 miles from Cabo San Lucas and presently under motor power as there was no wind. He indicates that he has had a rather uneventful day, but he sure appears to be enjoying himself. Mike gave me a webpage address of http://www.lifesci.ucsb.edu/~poole/escapade.html as a site for a link to your email address and as a site for tracking his progress in his "Around the World in 890 Days" trip.
3/2 (later) From Alicia,
As of this morning, March 2nd, the boat and crew are still in Magdalena Bay doing engine repairs. They have gotten the mast problems solved. We cross our fingers for them, and they hope to be on their way tomorrow, which should put them in Cabo San Lucas on Tuesday (3-4-97). Again we cross our fingers for them. Other than the few problems that they are having, they said all else is fine, and Darrell's finger is healing well.....;)
This contact was via phone patch. It was, as Barbara puts it, less than wonderful, but at least it is contact and we want to thank all of those Ham Operator's out there that are being able to stay in contact with them...Good Job...;)
3/2 From Alicia
As of last night Friday the 28th, we had contact via phone patch. Escapade was in Magdalena Bay..but had had a very rough night. The fore stay(shroud) was broken and they had to rig it well enough to keep the mast upright. The engine was having problems also. So they were going to spend today fixing these problems and than get going on Sat. March 1st. They said it is as beautiful there as they were told. So if all is well they should be on their way and be in Cabo San Lucas sometime next week. Darrell and Mike said its about 150 miles to Cabo.
3/1/97 From Alicia
Tonight we received a call from a ham radio operator by the name of Fred in Julian with a phone patch. All is well with the crew on Escapade. Darrell's hand is healing well. Everything seems to be going well for them. They are running low on fuel and will have to sail more...I thought that is what you did on a sail boat...oh well. They are at Cedros Inland as best we could hear. It'sabout 1/2 half way down to Cabo San Lucas..that means they should be in Cabo sometime around the weekend...we shall see what happens...;) It was very hard to understand them, but they got through, right??
2/24/97 From Ralph Eschborn
Been talking to your brother Mike on Ham radio thru the BAJA net in the morning. Everything A-OK on Escapade. Some minor things but no real problems. At 8:30 this AM they were 15 miles north of Cedros Island and were going to make a decision as to whether to anchor at Cedros or continue on to Turtle Bay. If they anchor at Cedros they expect to be in Turtle Bay sometime tommorrow.
2/22/97 From Alicia Sausser:
I talked to Darrell last night and all is fine. They left Dana Point on Wed. the 19th at about sunset. They were able to get the stove fixed and get a new Diesel jug (the one they had started leaking). Of course that meant that it was a one mile walk each way. Darrell said that the ride down was a nice and easy one. They still had the wind left over from the storm that sent them into Dana Point behind them for awhile. . Unfortunately the wind did not last and there were high swell. They sailed about 11-12 hours of their trip, but also had to motor the rest of the way. They reached Ensenada and The Coral Hotel about 9:00 am on Friday morning. They pulled into a slip at the Marina and checked in, but had to move the boat because it had too deep a draft and would be setting on land when the tide went down (they are having extremely high and low tides due to the full moon).
When we talked to Darrell last night, they had enjoyed a nice dinner at the hotel and used the Hot tub also. I thought they were roughing it, hehehe... They also enjoyed opening one of the many gifts that were given to them ((that would be having a "sundowner"). Only when they started packing did they find out much giving was done, and this means they should enjoy many sundowners over the trip...;)
They are planning on leaving today, Feb. 22 after they get fuel, but have to wait for the truck to get there as the marina was out. They also have to check out the watermaker, which is leaking. Must be a hose, Darrell said. They are headed to Turtle Bay next which is about 100 miles down the coast and than on to Magdalena Bay about 100-150 miles south of Turtle Bay. This also means that it will be the first test of being self-reliant. After they leave Magdalena Bay, which is where they will be able to see the whales, they are on to Cabo San Lucas. All this should take about a week.Again Darrell thanked everyone for their help and support and will be in touch by phone in Cabo San Lucas. And we are still working on the commuications via E-Mail, so wish us luck.
2/20/97 From Bill Chaffin:
I am a friend of Mikes. We met at the dock party. I listened for Mike last night o 80 meters but heard nothing. I also listened this morning on the Baja Net but heard nothing. Any news?
2/17/97 From the Escapade:
Well Steve (and everyone else)
This is it! After a frustrating couple of weeks of minor breakdowns and repairs we are ready to go. On our test sail last week everything worked except the wind and water power generating systems. It took another week to get things up and running, but as of Sunday the 16th everything seems to be in working order. It has been a hard and arduous process getting things ready, but last night we did our final shopping for vegetables and perishable products, and the plan is to leave this afternoon about 2 pm pst.
To the radio operators who have been listening for us, propagation has been bad for short distance contacts. I seem to be able to talk to Hawaii and Tennessee ok ,but I can't hear anyone in California. Hopefully as we move further out our california contacts will become easier. We give our love and thanks to everyone who has helped us and we welcome your prayers.
To the Inland Empire Brewers there is a new brewery opening! It is the dockside brewery and is located on the pacific coast highway. They don't start brewing till next month after we're gone. Somebody check it out for me. Also, would somebody give Barry Briton, the ham radio frequencies; we would like to hear from him. Take care everyone and wish us luck. I don't know when we will have access to the internet again, but the next letter should be a dilly.
bon voyage
darrell lorie and mike
2/10/97: From Mike Mann, a ham radio operator and friend of Mikes:
I was talking to Mike Poole on the ham radio today. He ask me to send you a message telling you he is still in port. Currently he is having problems with the auto tuner for the ham radio--its not working. If I get more info in the nex day or two i will let you know.
2/2/97 From Mike and Lorie
Just a note of thanks to everyone that attended the going away dock party for Darrell Sausser and Lorie and Mike Poole. Just to let everyone know, we did not leave Sunday Feb 1 as planned. We are planning to drive to Mexico for the party next weekend and then try to leave from Long Beach Monday Feb 10. If all goes well we should be checked into Mexico by the middle of that week and then off to Turtle Bay. Thanks again to everyone who came to see us off. Until the next letter enjoy the home page.
Love and Peace,
Mike and Lorie
Feb 2,1997
P.S. From John Walker:
This is the start of their trip south and then they turn right and keep going......
They are on "Escapade", a 38 ft. Ericson sloop, blue hull; they will check
into the Baja net with ham radio, KE6ZYK at 0800 daily on 7.238 MHz and Fri
at 0130 GMT on 14.250 MHz.