Our final leg of the journey is upon us! We departed Wellington over the weekend for our final stop in Christchurch. The Junior Watch Officer phase, or JWO for short, has officially begun, much to my dismay.

March 18th, 2019; Later in the day and into the evening.

Today we celebrated our scientific achievements as each student shared their oceanographic discoveries with their shipmates.  For the last six weeks we have sailed across, immersed ourselves in, and studied this small patch of ocean called the Caribbean Sea; and collectively we have learned so much.

I knew that when I began hearing sail commands in echo in my dreams this was a life-changing experience. Having two years of sea-time helped me cope with the challenges of life on a tall ship. Mostly because I know how your mind goes a little crazy under the strain of the bitter sea which endlessly heaves mariners up, down and around.

Today was a sobering entry in an already unique time at sea and ashore. Our day began earlier than usual, with an 0600 wakeup precluding the usual breakfast and set of chores. By 0800 we were off to the famed Wellington cable car, which Eric pointed out was technically a funicular.

This morning started off like any other morning at anchor with a voice right outside my bunk letting me know it’s 6:30 am and breakfast will be starting in 30 minutes. I know I can get at least 10 more minutes of rest, but it’s a very dangerous game to play because I can’t press the snooze button on a person.

Picture this: It’s 0800 and you’re eating breakfast on the quarterdeck. You’re wearing the cleanest items of clothing which after 4.5 weeks on a boat equates a smell test. You’re having a conversation with your shipmates about what you’re the most excited to do today with your research time on shore.

My day began with a gentle wake up at 6 am by Alle, “Good morning June, it’s 6 am. You have breakfast in 20 minutes, then after that you have watch. The weather is very nice outside.” It’s wonderful being able to plop right into bed without needing to turn on an alarm.

Congratulations, the acceptance letters have arrived and you’ve been accepted to your school of choice… with one caveat. They don’t have room for you until the spring term.

Before you lose heart and settle for your second choice, remember that this is a regular practice and needn’t affect your overall college experience. In fact, it could be a great opportunity.

After several days at sea the sight of land was bittersweet; however, something long anticipated awaited us after anchoring right outside Wellington and before we were to step foot on land.

The second to last field day of the voyage is scheduled for today, but as I have learned with life aboard, the schedule is always subject to change. Since I am part of A watch, that means I have the joy of cleaning every surface and dish in the galley.