Today during B-Watch we passed the 2000nm mark per the taffrail log (which measures the distance we have traveled through the water since Sierra Leone). The latest reading (recorded at 2000 / 8:00 PM) is 2030.8nm. We are receiving a boost of about ˝-knot from the North Equatorial Current. Our speed is currently just over 4 and-a-half knots. B-Watch was on from 1300 – 1900 (1:00 – 7:00 PM).

I worked a bit with the sextant, trying to get a sun line at local apparent noon (when the sun is at the highest point in the sky) in order to determine our latitude. I find navigation fascinating and fun, though I need quite a bit more practice in order to become proficient with the sextant. Luckily, Eliza is a patient teacher.

While I tried to bring the sun to the horizon with my instrument, whales were spotted off the starboard bow. Few things excite and bring together a crew like the sighting of these amazing mammals. They were two sperm whales. I don’t think I will ever tire of seeing them in this "land of water".

Later a few of us discussed the book, Bury the Chains. It is a fantastic book discussing the great social campaign that lead to the abolishment of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in Britain. The book reminds me of when I watched the film “Amazing Grace” (that touches the same topic) with my mother one February evening in Connecticut (last year).

I love seeing whales and dolphins. They remind us of the bigger world out there that stretches beyond our ship and the 17 souls onboard. There was a bit of tension on my watch last night, but hopefully I am right in feeling that things are relaxing a little. I am certainly having a renewed appreciation for some of my watch members, which is nice.

It was another beautiful day of sailing. The sun turned the calm sea golden as it shimmered behind the netting of the headrig. Tonight we are being serenaded by another glorious moon. Sweet dreams.

~Joy
 

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