I’ve just been standing at the helm in front of a beautiful golden sunset, fully flared in some checked PJ bottoms, led zeppelin t-shirt and a wooly hat; I must have looked quite odd, but it felt great! These recent days have felt a lot more relaxed. We’re not doing less work AT ALL but I feel a lot more comfortable. I’m still unaware of much on the boat but learning about it in this environment is so helpful and it’s actually pretty fun. I never thought I would be interested in the physics of sailing, seeing as I hated science at school, but every time I look at a sail or part of the boat I want to know how it works. 

The other day when we were docked at Sambro, we had an opportunity to go into Halifax and see the tall ships. Even a month ago if you had asked me if I would be interested in going, I probably would have chosen something else to do, but now that’s not the case. We have class on the deck everyday at 2pm with everyone joining in, learning about both history and navigational science, in which everyone gets involved. Saphra and Tim this afternoon did a presentation on the book ‘A small Place’. They described it as a book that raises many questions of the typical touristy presentation of the Caribbean we see and love, but which lacks part of the history and depth and the real country. It sounds like an interesting read and I’ll like to get a chance to read it soon.

Today, thanks to the Gulf Stream, the weather has been fantastic and the surroundings are so picturesque.  I had a few hours between my watches so for most of it stayed out on deck and read Equianos narrative and navigational science. A couple of days ago the same day I saw a whale, I read Equiano speak of how he saw one too, which was an incredible feeling.

Today also involved watching Newman fishing back aft, people talking and laughing and the brief moment of a sea turtle swimming alongside the port side. We’re still making good speed and all is well. As I stare up in awe tonight to the magnificent constellations of the sky, I look forward to the knowledge and stories of the sky and the sea I have yet to hear from my grandfather, and also hopefully by the end of the trip I look forward to sharing some of my own.

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