Current position of the SSV Robert C. Seamans. Click on the vessel to view position history. Use the tools, top right, to change the map style or view data layers. Dates and times use GMT (Greenwich Mean Time).
SEA Currents: SSV Robert C. Seamans
November 25, 2018
Land Ho!
Cassie with her new friend Raoul.
Ship's Log
Current Position
29° 18.1’ S 177° 49.6’ W
Course & Speed
170° 2.2 knots
Sail Plan
Top s’l and Four lowers: Main s’l, Main Stay s’l, Fore Stay s’l, and Jib
Weather
Wind out of NNW force 3, Waves from NNW at 2’, rainy
Today we got to loudly proclaim the super sailor-y words 'land ho!' as we spotted Raoul off our starboard bow. Raoul marks our turning point for the two-week trek to Napier via the Kermadecs and possibly the only time we'll see land during that time. The feelings on board can only be described as mixed. While some were excited to see land, others focused on their desire to set foot upon it, and still others could only think of how soon the longest portion of the amazing journey would be over. As we got closer to the island, we raised it on the radio and talked to one of the five people currently living there. We peppered him with questions about his work and living conditions and I for one felt glad I had the company of all 31 people on our mobile island.
Yesterday was no less action packed than today with the entire ship participating in our first 'field day'. We scrubbed the entire ship head to toe spending extra time on the galley and nooks and crannies often overlooked during daily cleans. What had the potential to be a difficult and disheartening couple of hours turned into a joyous celebration with the addition of music blasting throughout the ship. I had forgotten how nice it is to sing loudly with a group of people and I found myself in an amazing mood despite the work. I can't wait for the next time I get to clean!
As these events draw to a close the students start focusing more on their academic work, which is ever present. Many of our first assignments are due in the next few days and there is a concentrated push to find time to sit down and work. It's becoming more and more apparent that getting enough sleep and getting work done is not an option, so each of us is striving to find a balance between the two. Despite the difficult work, both mental and physical, and the long hours I wouldn't want to be doing anything less and I continue to be grateful for the work ahead of me. It's good to be busy and it's great to share that busyness with this amazing group of people.
- Tom Davies, A-Watch, Reed College
