Well, a disappointment!
The leak we noticed on our passage to the Canary Islands reappeared! We had spent time trying to track it down while in Gran Canaria but couldn’t find it. We dried out the bilges and no more water came in whilst in the marina.
When we set off we checked again and could see water coming in through the keel attachment. Worse on one tack but made us worry about weeks at sea bailing and extra stress. Is it the keel? Just the keel seal? Will it get worse?
Decided to divert to Tenerife to get it checked. Arrived on a bank holiday weekend and were unable to get lifted, so after a few days of waiting (and then being told it would be 3 weeks!) we made some calls and went to La Gomera.
Watched the Atlantic rowers leave. Very inspiring (if totally crazy!) but made us feel a bit wimpy and we must get on with it.
Rosie was lifted and luckily the keel is sound, just the seal is damaged and leaking. We dried out for a few days, resealed and explored the island. Beautiful forests in the centre and great entertainment in the town square for Christmas.
Now back in the water and itching to go!
Fingers crossed that we get a bit further, although the winds look rubbish. We might go to Cape Verde and wait better winds!