Programs Blog

Land Ho!

June 22, 2025
At anchor in Nuku Hiva

June 22, 2025

Time: 13:19

Location: Nuku Hiva, Marquesas

Hi everyone!

It’s Elle reporting from a stationary SSV Robert C. Seamans, can you believe it? We arrived in Nuku Hiva this morning just before noon and are currently anchored here! A watch (my watch group) was on dawn watch this morning and we saw land at 0446. Amelia shouted land-ho while I was just getting to lookout. As soon as I got on watch at 0100 I was hoping to see land, bonus points if I was on lookout or helm! I haven’t seen anything significant since I’ve been on lookout which is my favorite job while on watch. It was extremely rewarding to see the Marquesas from the ship while watching the sun rise. Beautiful orange and purple filled the sky as the sun rose and revealed the island.  

Yesterday was the winter solstice so we naturally had a winter solstice party! We all dressed up as different celestial bodies and exchanged kind words and illustrations to each other. We had a dance party and even decorated cookies. I wore my galaxy PJs and others dressed up as Orion’s belt, the sun, earth, different constellations, etc. Even though it was a winter solstice party, it sure doesn’t feel like winter here. It has been great weather almost every day on board the ship.

Today was also Field Day. This usually falls on a Saturday and we all work together to clean the ship. A watch cleaned the galley. Flo, Rocky, and I tackled deep cleaning in the galley and we had our first fire line. We all worked together to keep the ship clean for the week. It was fun to play music while cleaning.

After cleaning we had a surprise swim call! It was a wonderful treat after our labors in the kitchen. It felt so nice to cool off and jump off the ship. If I could I would go swimming every day. A few people jumped off the bow sprit which was super fun. I love the boat so much but for some reason I keep losing everything (sorry mom and dad). I can’t keep track of anything even though it’s such a small area. I can’t wait to explore Nuku Hiva tomorrow and walk around town. Before I know it we’ll be sailing again en route to Honolulu, Hawaii! 

I love you mom and dad! Can’t wait to see you in a few weeks.

Lots of love,

Elle Lansing
Lafayette College