We made it up into Gatun Lake via the 3 locks. However on our way down to the lock we heard the heart rending mayday call from a yacht that had gone aground on the reef by Shelter Bay. We had seen them come out of the locks and head towards Shelter Bay. We heard that all 6 onboard had been rescued but such a shocking end to their trip through the canal especially when you think all the hard bits had been conquered.

Our trip so far has been a little more straightforward if a little delayed. We didn't start until 8pm! There are 3 yachts - us, Nahoa (Lagoon 410) and Wings (Rustler 37). The original plan was mono in the centre and a cat on each side but that didn't look like it would work. So the new plan was us in the centre and Wings on port, Nahoa on starboard. This made it easy for our crew. Once the raft had been formed, their job was done. Nahoa and Wings had to do the line handling. All I had to do was "drive" the raft into the locks and keep us all off the walls!!

Fortunately despite the 25knots winds and different drag characteristics, we made it through safely and are now moored in Gatun Lake at nearly 1am. Next advisor arrives at 7:30am (supposedly).