Recovery day for the boys on the prior trip catching up on an array of small projects deferred in the 24/7 non-stop paced bluefin zone. Plenty of rigging and preparation accompanied general maintenance followed by pure good times as the afternoon faded. For the veteran "Spiders" an age old tradition is adhered to with devout purpose. The evening spirit, a mad scientist's formula best described as rocket fuel, is consumed with reverence on the sun deck cathedral of Royal Star. Soon follows lively conversation full of laughter and tall tales among friendships dating back forty and more years. Among this group of old companions the beautiful

evenings that remind all of why they are here are always celebrated. It's a pleasure to behold. 

Still vacationing but with more serious purpose tomorrow begins the first fishing phase of the voyage. Looking forward to arrival in our first zone of choice we look to settle in and make it pay in what can only be described a legendary long range destination. A beautiful weather forecast promises the first part of the success equation. Now for conditions and fishing. Time will tell...