Sirep 3, 22 June 2025
All the skippers who started the Jester Baltimore Challenge have now arrived safely, or retired to another port.
The defining feature of the event has been a high pressure weather system that drifted north through the week, resulting in frustrating calms interspersed by winds of variable direction and strength. A few calms are normal on the long challenges but in coastal waters they feel unsafe as well as frustrating. As a result many skippers who arrived at Baltimore reported that they had motored a small part of the distance, or avoided the turn at Fastnet.
In total 35 boats crossed the start line and 19 finished in Baltimore. Of the 19, 7 declared that they had used their motors for a short distance and 3 others had missed the mark at Fastnet Rock. All the skippers have a story to tell, we hope that one or two might write an account of this eventful challenge.
Jester Challenge 
As a very modest solo pocket cruiser I eagerly anticipate any and all accounts offered to us lesser mortals. Experiencing even a small part of your adventures is very much appreciated. I am still cruising AND learning every time!
Let’s hope for better weather from now on. Fair winds and a safe landfall to you all. Jerry, skipper Tropical Kitt.
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