As the PICTON CASTLE remains high and dry at the shipyard in Shelburne, one may be forgiven to ask: “What is the ship’s gang actually DOING down there all this time?” After successfully completing all the necessary work one does in drydock within a couple of weeks of being hauled out, and ready and waiting […]
Picton Castle was originally scheduled to set sail on a year-long voyage to the South Pacific in May 2020. Because of COVID-19, that didn’t happen and we had to delay the start of the voyage. Originally we delayed until July, then until October, and a few weeks ago we further postponed, pushing the start of
A fine sailing day at sea. Seas diminished, wind faired, yards almost squared, sparkling seas and nothing but blue sky. In sailmaking, the new spanker is almost done with Tammy roping and John stitching cringles. Spot painting in the dry weather, easy sailing as we head across the Mozambique Channel. Excellent rices bought at Reunion
Sweet sailing day today as we head for southern Madagascar, painting, sailmaking, varnishing, steering, sail handling all part of the day. Seas smoother and winds lighter but all pretty nice. From: Reunion Towards: Cape Town, South Africa Date: Feb 1st, 2019 oon Position: 24° 28’S x 048°28’E Course + Speed: SEly + 5.5 kts Wind
How lucky we are to have a Sunday at Sea during our four-day passage from Rodrigues to Reunion! Sundays are sacred for sailors, a day to catch up on personal projects, reading, as well as sleep. With all ship’s work ceased, the ship’s decks have a pleasant calm washed over them. This morning’s breakfast was
First day back out to sea. It always feels good to be back to our regular schedule. Away from the hustle and bustle of port, back out in the open ocean air. Ship’s work resumed as usual. Rhyanne, of South Carolina, was given the task of touching up our ship’s emblem; a castle turret with
Rodrigues was delightfully relaxing port. After a busy yet amazing stay in Bali and a wonderful 30 day ocean passage, a sleepy French speaking Mauritius island was just the best. Very friendly people, easy town to stroll around in. Popping in and out of shops or relaxing beach side as the sun was setting, enjoying
Smaller seas, lighter winds and cooler air on board Picton Castle today, which made for a lovely day at sea. This morning the 4-8 watch and those who were on deck got the stuns’ls prepped and set them again. They had been taken in last night for a squall. The work day is laid out
Calm, steady winds this morning, with a current that is conveniently headed in the same direction as we are, west, pushing the ship another knot faster. And just like that we are getting back into our regular schedule of ship’s work, as we are all in need of burning off yesterday’s delicious desserts and a
‘Twas the night before Christmas and on board Picton Castle Not a trainee was stirring, all was quiet in the forecastle The stockings were hung by the scuttle with care, In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there; The off-watch were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of short splices danced in
