Setting Sail

Jeffrey M. Schell, Chief Scientist

Our first night aboard the Cramer was uneventful in a good way. After a day full of learning the ways of the ship, nothing better than a full night of sleep for the students. Today began with amazing breakfast casserole and bowls of fruits thanks to our amazing stewards Valentine and Cassie. Then, it was time for the main event – let’s go sailing!

We cast off our dock lines, pulled in the fenders, and set our first sails! True, the winds were light so we also turned on the engine, but that did not take away from the thrill of finally being at sea. We were greeted by wonderful views of the Elizabethan Islands to the north, Martha’s Vineyard to the south; plenty of gulls, cormorants and terns, and a few neighbors pying the waters of Vineyard Sound. Spirits and energy levels were high.

We made our way to a comfortable anchorage in Menemsha Bight on the northside of Martha’s Vineyard where we could complete our safety training. Students and crew learned of their various responsibilities during various emergency situations including fire and abandon ship. They also learned how to operate the scientific hydrowinch that will allow us to deploy all manner of scientific equipment.

Another full day of learning for the crew of the Corwith Cramer.  Tomorrow, bright and early we start our voyage in earnest and begin our journey to the Gulf of Maine. What will we discovery along the way?

Cheers

Schelly,

Chief Scientist - Jeffrey M. Schell

Sasha and Theo (background) practice different fire hose settings during a Fire drill

Mikail, Greg and Neil haul on the main staysail halyard