Tail of the Bank

I sit here at the navigation station pondering over synoptic charts and GRIB
files showing forecasts for wind and currents. The fastest route takes us
across the Tail of The Bank, a stretch of relatively shallow water where the
Grand Banks extend south to 43N 50W. At this point the sea bed falls away
dramatically to the depths of the Atlantic some 5,000m below the surface.

As we run toward this edge with tail winds and a following sea, waves often
2m-3m tall, that I ponder the physics of such waves as they cross the
boundary layer. I know how hazardous it can be when seas break over
Portland Bill or Needles Fairway. But the forces involved here are much
greater and give rise to the reputation that the Grand Banks have for very
steep seas.

Given the gap that has opened up between our rivals, there is little
pressure to cut corners - other than the lure of a cold beer at Newport. So
we are taking a cautious approach and sailing around the Tail. Another
reason is to avoid the High Pressure systems that seem to be developing off
the Newfoundland coast and the lack of wind that entails.

We expect to round the Tail in 24-36 hours. However, we will be on the
lookout for some additional hazards to our navigation - the fleet of Clipper
Round the World yachts left Halifax yesterday and seem to be on a reciprocal
course to us. Just a shame we won't want to stop and exchange tales.

Richard