The North Star

Starr Rodgers, Deckhand

Greetings from the North Atlantic! As we head into international waters towards the Sargasso Sea, it has created the perfect opportunity for stargazing.  Without all the light pollution, A Watch had the chance (very) early this morning to practice locating the North Star. Using stars in the Big Dipper and other constellations, we were able to find Polaris in the night sky! We got to apply some of that knowledge during class today, presenting what we practiced that morning to the rest of the crew. The crew also had their first class in how to navigate using a tool called a sextant. We learned the parts, how to operate it, and how to correct errors associated with using it.

As we head closer to the Sargasso Sea, everyone is becoming more comfortable with every role aboard the Cramer. Each day, the watch rotation gives students and staff alike a chance to try their hand at sail handling, cooking, navigation, species identification, and so more! They’ll all be ready to become junior watch officers in no time!

We wish all fair winds as we continue our voyage to Woods Hole, and hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!!

- Starr Rodgers, Deckhand

Contact: Douglas Karlson, Director of Communications, 508-444-1918 | dkarlson@sea.edu