And they're off! The moment had finally arrived, just after 1800hrs for Pete, Andy, Eliot and Mark when they untied 'Spirit of Mystery' from the moorings, pushed themselves away from the side of the 'Ripple', with Mark and Andy then rowing in time out of Newlyn Harbour. Pete shouted up from the boat: "Does she look good?" It goes without saying really, as I am sure everyone who was there will agree she looked absolutely spectacular!

Bon Voyage Boys!

Mandy

'Monkey with a camera' was what Pete called himself when he took a picture of the crowd that had gathered to see 'Spirit of Mystery' depart for her voyage.

The smile on Pete's face says is all I think, in that he is really happy that all the preparation is now finished and the time has finally arrived for them to commence their journey to Australia.

Thanks Lucy for sending this picture, good one!

Mandy

For those of you that were at Newlyn this evening to watch the departure of Pete and the crew, you will remember Pete telling the crowd that they were all witnesses to Mark smoking his last cigarette! He may have his back turned on us, but we know he was quietly enjoying his last few puffs - well until he reaches Cape Town that is!

You can do it Mark!

Cheers Mandy

Today's the day, departure day has at last arrived, although it seems to have come around all of a sudden. One minute we were talking in the office saying that it was seven weeks to go and the next 'wallop' the boys have left!

Here's a picture of Pete, Andy, Eliot and Mark undergoing their final preparations before they depart this evening. It was great to see so many people turn up to wave them goodbye braving the horrid weather and taking into account the very short notice that was given regarding the departure time. Someone in the crowd shouted 'Three cheers for the Spirit of Mystery' and it seemed fitting that everyone joined in to show their support for the boat and its crew.

Cheers, Mandy