Bermuda to Saint Martin

Nov 18 - Dec 21, 2025. 1000 nm in about 5 days, average speed 8.3 knots. Rough passage at times. Mostly on the beam (82-110), but sometimes 60 degrees apparent, sometimes 120. True wind was typically 12-20 knots with occasional gusts as high as 30, but the wind was not the problem. It was the waves. 6-9 ft, but jumbled and jerky, with only about 18 hours of respite from the jerkiness on day 4. We sailed for 4 days on a single-reefed main and variable amounts of reefing the jib, titrating based on comfort and reducing weather helm in the big waves. We motorsailed for perhaps a day total, mainly the upwind parts. Had to curve around a bit in the middle there to keep a more comfortable angle to the waves in shifting winds. Mostly used Wind Vane mode on the autopilot. We slowed down intentionally by over-reefing and depowering the main further near the end to make Saint Martin in daylight and help with the jerky washing machine of waves bouncing off Anguilla. Our bodies were sore when we got to Saint Martin, and the cat was pissed! However, nothing new broke, and there was no barfing! Hooray!