Programs Blog

Author: Neel Koritala, A Watch, University of Illinois ‘25

Ship’s Log

February 25, 2024

Position: 40°24.905 ‘S x 177°05.352 ‘E

Heading: 246°T

Speed: 2.7 knots

Weather: A nice sunny day with strong winds in the morning, easing in the afternoon. The sea had swells around 4-5 feet, and the temperature was around 21°C.

Hello from beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand!

Time is flying by. We are approximately 6 days away from our
port stop in Wellington. It is hard to believe that we only landed here 12
days ago. Every day has been incredible. Despite our hectic schedules there
is always ample time for delicious food and great conversations. Take today
for example. I woke up around 1030 (A watch, which is my watch group, had
night watch from 01900 to 0100). I rolled out of bed and crawled into the
main salon. A few of my ship mates were there, chowing down on some leftover
crepes and nutella. I joined them and them, savoring every last bite of that
nutella. I stayed in the main salon for a meeting with my fellow watch
members. We discussed how we were feeling and learned more about different
sailing maneuvers. Then, it came time for lunch. A scrumptious salad with
cannellini beans, kale, mini shrimp, and balsamic vinegar. After devouring
my lunch, A watch took the deck. Every day we cycle through various
responsibilities. We steer the ship with the helm, take lookout on the
ship’s bow, do hourly boat checks to ensure safety, plot our course, and
adjust the sails. Today I began on lookout. I clipped into the bow of the
ship and held on as the ship crashed along the waves, getting splashed
occasionally (sometimes doused). Just in the one hour I was at the bow, I
saw 5 albatrosses! Next, I was off to the helm. Getting to steer is such a
large ship is exhilarating but also nerve-racking. Next was the boat check.
From the engine room to the heads (bathrooms) you check every nook and
cranny, making sure all is well. After a successful watch, we headed down to
the main salon for a tasty chicken and beef casserole.

It is hard to encapsulate what goes on day to day because there
are always aspects of the ship that are changing. You learn to expect the
unexpected. Every day there are new challenges and tasks, but we work
together to ensure we are moving in the right direction. I am surrounded by
such an incredible group of people. Everyone is kind-hearted, open, and
patient. It makes it what should be difficult feel easy. Sharing this
experience with this group of people is such a blessing. Further, I’ve been
lucky enough to be a speck in the grand Pacific Ocean. There is so much to
see. We have seen vibrant bioluminescent water, dolphins dancing along the
bow of the ship, and even a sunfish. Being at the mercy of the nature is
humbling, and it helps you appreciate the smaller things in life you have
taken for granted.

P.S

To my family and friends. I love and miss you all very much. The first
chance I get, you will be getting a call. I hope all is going well!

Best,

Neel Koritala, A Watch, University of Illinois ‘25

https://sea.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dolphins2small.jpg