We have been in waiting mode for the past month, and yes this has been a bit tedious, but we mustn’t grumble. On the positive side we have had our second Covid vaccinations in Auckland, so a very big thank you to the New Zealand health service. We have had plenty of time to say goodbye to our many cruising friends, although some may be wondering if we were really leaving.
Three flight changes later the day finally came for loading. What an event, and yes a little nerve wrecking, but finally all done.
The Dynamogracht arrived in Auckland on Wednesday 26th of May. She had a rough ride from Brisbane as there was a tropical storm just off the North Island of New Zealand. She was only making seven knots into the fierce winds down the east coast from Cape Reinga. Quite frankly we go faster than that, albeit we were very glad not to be tackling 40 knot winds on the nose, and five metre seas. We learnt later that there was an engine problem which is now fixed, and hopefully the ship will go a bit faster during the voyage back to Southampton.
The unloading, boat shifting and loading is a slow process. We were told that the crew are very unhappy as they are unable to go ashore, and so on a go slow. These are difficult times. We are delighted that the America’s Cup boats, Ineos and Luna Rosa plus their various chase boats, masts and twelve boxes are joining A Capella on the trip back to Europe. The loading list makes for interesting reading.
After loading we were delighted to meet up and have supper with Marie and Deitmer from S/Y Greyhound who were loading their boat the next day. We spent our final night in New Zealand in the delightful DeBretts hotel.
At the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron admiring the actual America’s Cup. Thank you Clare and Corran. 
The view from our marina
Sailing in A Capella of Belfast 
Very sad that this is the end of your journey and probably apart from one last blog or two at your actual departure and the unloading of Accapella then that will be the end of us living our dreams through your blogs.
Thanks Patricia for keeping us up dated on your wonderful journey .. it’s been amazing 😁
Safe flight home
Take care and maybe see you soon
Helenx
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See you next time you head to our shores…. it’s been great catching up with you. Safe travels to you and A Capella of Belfast and look forward to catching up in UK. Dx
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You have certainly lifted our spirits with your posts! Looking forward to seeing you on your return. Safe journey!
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Really good photos of A Capella’s loading, quite an operation, very precise and skilled.
Glad that she is able to return to Southampton, so that you and your boat will all be
in the UK. Safe journey.
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Amazing pictures of the Acapella’s transition. I remember when Gerty came to the US via a ship like that. Safe journey home for you two. I hope we get to see you soon in the Mediterranean, or in England- who knows? The Acores were wonderful and we made it to Spain!
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Thank you for taking me with you on your trip.
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