Programs Blog

Author: Lila Hensley, University of Vermont

Ship’s Log

26 November 2023
Current Position: 36.37 deg S, 175.14 deg E
Ship’s Heading and Speed: 326 deg True at 4.9 knots
Weather: Sunny, windy, clear skies

Hi everyone, the day started with yet another delicious meal made by Ashley
and while we were enjoying the nice warm dish we were able to welcome Anna
Lynn and Hannah back aboard. YAY! There was much to celebrate this morning
as party hats were quickly donned in honor of Jenna’s birthday. Jenna
proceeded to hand out the party favors she had brought (more COVID tests),
and then chores and dishes were dutifully completed. For the first half of
the day we split into our watch groups and learned how to respond in a
variety of emergency situations. After that, we had a yummy baked potato bar
for lunch and began getting ready for departure.

As tasks were completed and the moment we’d been waiting for drew near, S312
students all gathered on deck, some helping us safely leave the dock, others
standing by ready to jump in if needed. There was much anticipation as
Captain Allison completed her final few pre-departure duties. Finally, just
like that, the engine was on and we were watching as the city of Auckland
and the massive Disney cruise ships grew smaller and smaller behind us. Once
we were well underway, sails were hoisted and the engine was turned off.
We’re sailing! Birthday cupcakes were brought to the quarter deck and we all
sang to Jenna. Soon after our singing and birthday treat, dolphins were
spotted on the port side of Bobby C. Students and crew alike made their way
forward and watched as three beautiful bottlenose dolphins came and swam
right under our bow, playing in the ship’s wake. It doesn’t get much better
than that.

Currently, A Watch is completing their first watch rotation. B Watch will
follow this evening and C Watch (my watch), has the very very special job of
being the first dawn watch (0100 to 0700). The vibes are good and even as
some of us awkwardly stumble around as the boat rocks and others are a bit
apprehensive as the tables move back and forth, we are all happy and excited
to be underway. Lucy and Morgan, we miss you and hope you can rejoin us
soon! Well, that’s all for now. This blog was written a bit early because I
will in fact be going to bed right after dinner.

Until next time,
Lila Hensley (University of Vermont)

Shout out: It’s your birthday here mom, so happy birthday! I hope it’s a
good one, love and miss you.