SSV Corwith Cramer (file photo)

Ahoy land dwellers!

We are now underway! The shipmates are taking time to adjust to our new watches and learning many useful sailing tactics.  During our shifts, we split into four groups: engineering, lab, deck, and galley. Each part of the watch allows us to explore a new aspect of sailing on the Cramer. Most of the shipmates received a lengthy opportunity to steer the vessel at the helm.  Today, we learned how to cast the Neuston net which catches plankton. Upon retrieving the net from the water, we analyzed the various species found on the surface. Additional training resumed during our watches. Despite sailing for the majority of the day, most of us have proven immune so far to the effects of sea sickness. 

Last night, each of the 36 crew members was split into hourly anchor watches. During the anchor watches, we conducted a boat check, anchor check, and deck watch. Adjusting to life on the aquatic vessel has proved to be an exciting challenge. Each watch is six hours, taken in shifts. After C watch’s shift we engaged in a heated debate about the taste of ginger, we finally agreed to try it in the morning. We are looking forward to the exciting adventures we will face at sea.

- Audrey, Alfonso, Jaxon, Young; C Watch