We were able to improvise a repair and secure the hatch opening. The concern, we had some 2000 nautical miles ahead of us until landfall at Horta in the Azores. If we experienced gale force winds (although unlikely in June) the boat could be in jeopardy with only a make shift repair on the exposed foredeck. We elected to turn back to Portland, ME.
The following year, June 2001, we had a successful trans-Atlantic crossing.
You were lucky it happened while fairly close to land, but it must have been a great disappointment to have to turn back. Sounds like quite an adventure, and I’m glad you were able to go the next year! How many were in your crew?