Programs Blog

Author: Diego Inigo-Payne, C Watch, Stony Brook University, Sam Brandt, B Watch, College of Charleston

Ship’s Log

23 November 2023
Current Position: Dockside in Auckland
Ship’s Heading and Speed: Stationary (chilling)
Weather: Partly sunny and cloudy, fairly windy

We started the day staggered into two eating groups for a delicious
breakfast of banana pancakes and bacon prepared by Chef Ashley. After
tidying up dishes, we broke into watch groups to dive into cleaning and our
ship responsibilities, such as engine room checks and lab work. Sam and B
Watch got to head into the engine room first and learn about the
inter-workings of the technical aspects of the Seamans. This included a 30
minute run through of the engine room below decks. The tall people had a
rough time. For those who don’t know, the engine room is often shy of 5
feet, which creates migraine galore for those slightly above average height.
The forward-most part of the engine room has a tiny walkway in which even a
shorter person has to crouch. Poor Lev (and later others) had to crawl on
their hands and knees to keep up with the group.

In the meanwhile, Diego and C Watch learned about lab safety and sampling
techniques from our rad marine techs Kelly and Amy, followed by a quick
scavenger hunt (C Watch killed it). A Watch rounded out the trainings
sessions with a boat check, and then all three watches rotated through these
stations. After a solid morning of learning we paused for a tasty lunch of
soup and banging homemade focaccia, super yummy! We then broke for a little
siesta and RandR time which was well utilized for some great naps, bookstore
shopping, and a group effort haircut for Diego (thanks Winslow, Morgan,
Grace, Zeke, Kaden, and Charlotte).

After RandR time, we split into groups again! This time we learned how to use
a sextant, the ins and outs of sails, and more lab time (we filled water
containers)! We broke a final time for dinner delightfully met with stir fry
and noodles, big ups chef Ash (you da GOAT). After dinner Sam and B Watch
did a stellar job cleaning the galley, and then Diego and Sam told bad jokes
to Davi. All and all, a long day of fantastic interactive stellar learning.
Thank you Captain Allison, mates, and crew.

Signed,
Diego Inigo-Payne, C Watch, Stony Brook University
Sam Brandt, B Watch, College of Charleston (Go Cougs)

P.S.
Aun que falte unos dias,
Feliz cumpleaños mama.
Espero que lo pases bien.
Besos y Abrazos
Con amor, Diego

Mom, Dad, fam, and Maddie miss you guys so much
Have an awesome thanksgiving wish I was there (5 ducks)
Love you guys, Sam (SB3)