Earlier this afternoon one of our shrouds broke, it was the intermediate shroud which helps stabilize the middle of the mast and makes sure it doesn’t bend like an S. We kinda need it. It is not something which can be properly fixed without specialist equipment and so, as we have the option, to return to Panama to get it fixed there.

With wind, current and waves against us the 150 miles back will take two days to motor. We’re not using our sails with a problem on the mast rigging.

All onboard are fine and well, just a bit disappointed.

If anyone can recommend a good rigger in Panama please let me know via iridium email. If you want to console us please email jonwright@myiridium.net as we don’t see Facebook comments until we are back.