Navigator’s Log #12

June 21, 2026

Well, we found the hole we had been watching for a while.

There was not much of a better option in front of us. With about 165 nautical miles to go to Bermuda, the detour around it was simply too far out of the way, so now we are working our way through it — steady, cautious, and looking for the narrow path back to clear air outside of this mixing bowl.

Running Tide is in her night mode now. The boat is quiet, the watches are settled, and the mood onboard is upbeat but focused. At the nav station, there is plenty of competitor tracking, routing, and weather watching going on — all mixed in with the occasional snores from the off-watch crew trying to steal some sleep wherever they can.

Just before sunset, the crew was treated to a visit from a few porpoises, which always seems to lift spirits at sea. Moments like that are a good reminder that even in the frustrating light-air patches, we are still lucky to be out here.

At the moment we are moving along at 2 to 3 knots in just 3 to 4 knots of wind. The sea temperature has dropped back to about 77 degrees, but the night is still warm. For now, it is all about patience, keeping the boat moving, protecting our lane, and waiting for Running Tide to find her way back into the breeze.

The focus is simple: keep threading the needle.

Mike "Jonesy" Jones
Navigator, Running Tide
2026 Newport–Bermuda Race