It was a quiet Sunday at Sea for those not cooking away in the warm galley, it was a relaxing, rainy Sunday. Everyone needs that once in a while. Crew members were huddled together over a laptop in the shelter of the salon enjoying entertaining television shows. Yes, we sailors do enjoy a great series or movie from time to time. Especially if it pertains to tall ship sailing or life at sea.
Plans and preparations to arrive in Fiji by Tuesday are beginning to unfold. The ship will be going into dry dock, which entails hauling our 180′ barque out of the salt water and resting it onto a cradle. A rather interesting and unique experience to witness and be part of, according to those who’ve seen it for themselves.
At 1600 Captain held a discussion on Fiji and what the crew has to look forward to, both with the ship and exploring the port. Bollywood films, exploring the museum, shopping at the market, rugby games and of course ice cream! As for the ship’s work while we’re in port, our sailmaker John of Massachusetts, USA will lead a team in laying out sails. We will even pull out our industrial sewing machine to seam together the cloths of canvas. Everyone is looking forward to some good old fashioned R n’ R in Fiji while others are keen to witness the ship in yard, the process that entails and the work that will take place.
From: Vava’u, Kingdom of Tonga
Towards: Suva, Fiji
Date: September 16, 2018
Noon Position: 18°37.3′ S x 177°39.6′ W
Course + Speed: WSW + 4.6 knots
Wind direction + Force: E’ly + 3 – 4
Swell Height + Direction: 3m + SE by E
Weather: Rain off and on
Day’s Run: 108.2nm
Passage Log: 111.8nm
Distance to Port: 136.7nm
Voyage: 9375.3nm
Sails Set: All square sails, Inner jib, main topmast stays’l