Current position of the SSV Corwith Cramer. Click on the vessel to view position history. Use the layer tools, top right, to change the map style or to view data layers. Dates and times use GMT (Greenwich Mean Time).
SEA Currents: SSV Corwith Cramer
November 23, 2019
Into the Deep
Intern Neil, 3rd mate Hila, and Nicole at the helm.
Ship's Log
Current Position
35°06.102’S, 174°48.512’E
Ship’s Heading & Speed
030°, 1.5 kts
Weather
Clear skies, little wind
“Thar she blows mateys! Lower the whale boats ya landlubbers and bring us back a beauty of the deep! Fire up the main furnace, Nate!” That’s our captain, Chris, bellowing to the crew to set out on a whale chase. Ha ha, I am kidding. We did, however, see a pair of minke whales this morning as we sailed out of the Bay of Islands, heading for the deeper water of the Kermadec Trench. The whales, along with dozens of gannets diving to their breakfast, and a pod of dolphins on the hunt, were a fitting goodbye to land and coastal waters. As we proceeded towards the deeper ocean, a large albatross bid us farewell before disappearing over the horizon.
Whales, albatross, and the open ocean are three things I’ve been able to check off of my semester wish-list today. One has to take advantage of a clear, sunny day like today, since the alternative is below-deck, where sea sickness can be much worse, bouncing between the walls as you move from your bunk to the head and back. Now that we’re moving away from land, our world has become varying shades of blue and white as far as the eye can see. A far cry from the fall colors of Vassar on the other side of the world.
As part of the second stage of the sea component, we’ve shifted watch mates. B-Watch, my little family for the trip, is now working with Rebecca, the first mate. Our watch has proved quite lucky when it comes to wildlife sightings, ever since one of our first night watches when we were treated to an incredible display of bioluminescence. After our visit to Paradise Bay, spirits are high as we head out to Kermadec, and all that
awaits us in the open ocean.
Shout-out to my family, Maya, and all my friends, sending you all love from the deep!
George
Previous entry: C-289: Caribbean Reef Expedition
Next entry: Calm Cats and Vocal Locals: a Diverse Day in St. Croix
Reactions
Leave a public comment for students and crew to read when they reach their next port and have access to the internet!
Hi George! We are gathering for Thankgiving and thinking of all of you at sea.
I love getting all the posts, you and the rest of the crew do a great job giving a vivid sense of your adventures.
Lots of love Mom and Dad and Daniel