Programs Blog

Author: Owen Newbigging, Queen’s University

Ship’s Log

20 December 2023
Current Position: Anchored at Great Barrier Island
Ship’s Heading and Speed: NA
Weather: Sunny and warm

Today started with a lot of frantic cramming, our ADRT essays being due at
noon. At the same time, we had our final watch officer evaluation meetings,
where we discussed how we’d improved since our last meetings about two weeks
ago. The meetings were kind of sad, receiving feedback from people we’ve
grown to respect so much over the past month, with the impending reality
that in a few days, we likely won’t see them ever again. You could feel the
relief in the air at lunch, as everyone had handed in their papers, and
checked off another box on the list of things-to-do before Auckland.

After lunch, we enjoyed some well needed RandR. Most people went to explore
the island, but I took the opportunity to sail the Seamans’s spritsail baby,
Gene. Exploring the inlet we are anchored was a treat, and with big gusts
coming through the mountains surrounding it, Gene was surprisingly playful.
After sailing for a purpose for a month, it was great to just enjoy sailing
for what it is, and connect with the ocean through the activity. On Great
Barrier Island, the rest of the class went on hikes, soaked in the rays, and
other landlubber activities. The brave ones went swimming. I say brave
because we’ve seen at least three sharks since anchoring here yesterday.
Don’t worry parents, everyone made it back aboard with all limbs intact.

After dinner, we had the opportunity to play with Gene again, this time in
her rowboat form, to go for sunset rows. We appreciated the serenity, and
the peaceful singing of the gannets. We’re winding down for bed now, after
some delicious peppermint chocolate cookies, and with our OGC presentations
tomorrow, I think everyone appreciates not having any more dawn watches to
wake up for.

To everyone at home, I can’t wait to see you!

Owen Newbigging
B Watch