An
interesting day crossing the busy waters of Singapore. I don't think
I've ever seen as many big ships as here with it's multiple
anchorages, traffic separation lanes and the ancillary craft dashing
between like ants on speed. You certainly have to keep a keen look
out through 360ยบ at all times...or you'd miss the fighter jets going
through their flying routines above you.
The
first time we came through Singapore late last year I was anxious
because we had an issue with dirty fuel which was causing the engine
to stop. This second time was straightforward, safe and speedy. As
we passed south of Sentosa island a thunderstorm over Indonesia to
the south caused the wind strength to increase. There is a rule one
is not allowed to sail in the Singapore Straits. We haven't found
one prohibiting motor sailing so with the engine still running and a
positive current of 1 knot we unfurled the genoa and lifted the speed
to 8.5 knots running parallel to the west bound traffic lane. Before
you think we're irresponsible we did have a wide and clear path and
our AIS (automatic identification of ships) switched on.
 |
| storm on the horizon |
With the
help of a sail we reached our anchorage by the naval base in Pengelih
two hours earlier than expected. This doesn't happen often.
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