Monday, December 9, 2013

Senegal

Direct Journal Excerpt:

11/23/13
YMCA and Syto! I’m in Dakar, Senegal. First impressions is that it is poor and dirty. With every step there is a waft of some unpleasant smell. People are constantly hassling me for money and most buildings are rundown. Some are even collapsing in on themselves. I met my Syto (Student Youth Travel Organization) student today. I’ll be staying with her for the next two nights. Sasha is amazing. She volunteers with the YMCA’s Yarts department teaching dance. Today they had a showcase because people from North Carolina’s YMCA had come on an exchange. The dancing was fabulous, I could sometimes understand the singing and best of all is that they invited me into their family and asked so politely for a song from Canada. Further into the night giant circles were formed and dance offs began. I felt so included in the culture. Late night I went to my homestay’s house located in a rundown dirty part of town. However we were only 100 metres from the ocean break. Dinner was served in a dish made to feed everyone (they didn’t have any individual plates).

11/25/13
At this moment I can hear drums playing on the street. Their vibrations echo through my head and shake the bedroom walls. I love Senegal! Sasha took me to the park today and afterwards we talked for hours on end about everything from school to dreams. It’s quite sad to think that Sasha is going through university but at the best she might only get a job working in security or accounting because job opportunities are limited. A rooster and goats on the roof woke me up this morning.

11/26/13
I am writing so much about Senegal and I have so much more to write. I leave my homestay today and it’s obvious that there’s a sort of gloomy tone around the house. It’s only been two days but I already feel like I’ve known my sister for a month. I really hate goodbyes. This morning when I woke up to the rooster again I could hear children playing soccer outside. It’s a really lively neighbourhood. Breakfast was a collection of tasty goods from the baker down the street.     
We went to the zoo in the afternoon. Sasha was really excited to show me the tigers but I couldn’t help except feel sorrow for the small cages they were contained to and the skinny bodies. The cages were no larger than an average sized dining room.

11/28/13
Our first service project in Senegal took place today. I think it went well. It was just night being able to meet the children and communicate with the staff at Empire des Enfants. We played with the kids, worked in the kitchen, and asked a multitude of questions. Empire des Enfants was designed to take street kids off the street and reconnect them with their families. Many of these kids come from Darrahs which are schools which supposedly teach the Coran but these schools are corrupt. Instead, they take students and force them to beg for money. If they don’t collect enough then they are beaten and must go without food. It’s awful what happens, but Empire des Enfants will not take these kids off the streets themselves. Rather kids must come themselves. In my opinion it’s a great organisation.
We also had lunch with the students which was cool. The eldest boy would take his bare hands and break the chicken apart so that it could be dispersed evenly to everyone. This really is the country of sharing and hospitality. Cool Fact: When eating on the floor I had to kneel because crossed legs meant that my parents no longer owned me and it was a sign of disrespect at my age.

11/29/13
It’s 12:30 in the morning and I can’t fall asleep. Life in Senegal is sweet. I visited the Fann Hospital’s infectious disease ward and helped in the garden. We watered, planted, and cleaned out lemon grass. My hands still smell sweet.

11/03/13
I hate to leave Senegal, but I know that I’m leaving to head towards home and Christmas. I have left with so much more knowledge and some great connections. Thank you to Sasha and her family for hosting me. I will never forget the amazing time’s that I have had. I really do love Senegal and especially the Senegalese.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Europe's Hawaii

Canary Islands, Spain. Change of plans, instead of Tenerife the Sᴓrlandet stopped in Las Palmas. We had to fix our air conditioning and as a result extra time was allotted to exploring the shores of what some consider Europe’s Hawaii. Let me start off by saying that in all honesty this port, through my eyes, was not the most enjoyable or memorable.

First night was a blast. Being able to get off the ship and grab real fresh fruit was marvellous. Bananas, apples, and oranges melted in my mouth. They were the velvety chocolate from one’s favourite chocolatier.

Second day provisions came “first thing” which was noon and so only the evening was given for shore leave. I travelled by bus to old town and there Romane, a close friend on the ship, guided us through the cracked alleyways and tile dominated neighbourhoods to Christopher Columbus’ house. Not bad for a night out, huh?

Third day was given up to a long hike along a ravine in central Gran Canaria. I loved it. The fresh air was great (not like we don’t get any on a ship though, but it is different), the view was amazing, and I only ended up with a few needles in my hand from a cactus. Best of all though was the guide we had. He made the group laugh harder than anyone I’ve ever met who isn’t a professional comedian. Did you know that there are no natural rivers in the Canary Islands? The ravine was the only one in Gran Canaria, possibly the Canary Islands, that wasn’t dried up.

Fourth day I went surfing in the morning. I have a new earned respect for all surfers. The sport is challenging. It was a great feeling, however, when I finally caught a wave and stood tall (low stance) on my board. Much salt water was swallowed though. As a result I got a terrible stomach bug and could not even make it back to the ship. We needed to call a taxi driver. Half way home I crawled out of the car and puked my guts out.

No food was consumed for three days following my taxi incident. I became dehydrated and had really low blood sugar. My stomach cramped, my head spun, the whole world, it seemed, was going to collapse in on itself. All I wanted was to leave the program and to be back home with my family. 

The Best Night Watch of My Life

At 0145 I was woken up for night watch. Usually this is the worst part of living on a boat because I know that I have to get up, get dressed, put on a harness; brave the elements for two hours soaking my feet and the rest of my body only to fall back asleep for two hours. Once I’m up though it’s never as bad as I predict and if I can stay awake then I usually end up enjoying myself. However, this night was better than the rest.

0155 – Watch hand over.
0200 – Start watch on standby and am quickly removed to help set sail.
0240 – Sail is set, bracing complete, main deck closed off because it is not stable enough.

Having the main deck closed is a huge thing for us students because it means that the ship is rocking rather vigorously and the waves that crash over are too powerful that they could potentially take our feet out right out from under us. Safety rounds are discontinued.
At this point the excitement fills my body; a new rush of adrenaline. I’m slightly terrified about going overboard but I try not to think too much.

0300 – Look out.

I’m placed on lookout but I can’t stand because there isn’t enough to hold onto to. So, my watch mate and I sit outside the navigation house. With every rock of the ship I’m elevated into the air and left hanging from the hand rails. As the ship rocks to port I slam back down against the deck. It’s painful and irritating my tailbone but I don’t care because exhilaration is rushing through my veins.

Wave after wave hits me full on and the foulies that are meant to protect from the element are a mere layer of tissue in comparison. I become soaked to the bone. Bioluminescent coats my body and I glow in the darkness of the aft deck. My fingers drawing images with the production of light, it is an unfamiliar and far too likeable situation.

0400 – Watch change.

Watch is over and we’re rushed back down to the safety of the banjer. The officer does not wish to keep us on deck for any longer than necessary. I can’t fall asleep though because my head continuously replays the last two hours. It’s wonderful. I don’t think I can ever forget that one night watch.

0415 – I fall sound asleep.


Seeing Morocco

Is it weird to say that a single port has changed the way I look at life? If not, then I will most definitely say this about Morocco. Never have I experienced a world so different from my own, so far from any reality that I grew up in.

The houses were a construction project that rarely got finished, children begged at every corner you passed by, women covered themselves head to toe, air conditioning was unheard of, jobs were back-breaking and the hours long.

I found it interesting talking with the locals because while I thought of these circumstances as some sort of issue, they saw it as life. They knew no different and were, for the most part, content in how they lived their lives.

After a while it began to make sense to me. I realised that it was all based on perspective and I am fortunate now to have another point of view.

One boy who is my age that I met at a pottery co-op had been working from the time he was five. That astonished me for some reason. I couldn’t imagine how different our lives were. At the age of five I was running around playing hide-and-go-seek with my friends. Again though, it was ordinary for him and he didn’t mind because he made money. Very little but he stay made money.

It’s interesting to consider how ill-advised I was prior to Morocco. I had an understanding of what I was walking into but I never thought about how I would be walking out after experiencing and not just reading or viewing.

I loved North Africa. It changed the way my eyes are functioned to seeing my surroundings. I saw things that will change my life. Even on a single bus ride disease and poverty were present. The worst for me was seeing one man who's leg had only flesh left there was no skin and sowly it had begun to decay. The flys swarmed it. I couldn't do anything except imagine the agony that he must have been in. Worst of all was the fact that he was not the only one. 

Everyone tells me that Morocco is nothing compared to Senegal and so I cannot wait until adventures in West Africa. I can only wonder how my perspective might change once more. It will be interesting.

Life on a Ship

If you think life at home is hard, try living on a ship:
0340 – wake up for watch
0400 – watch handover (on-coming)
0555 – watch handover (off-going)
0600 – get dressed for the day, make my bunk, stow my bunk, brush teeth, and take care of personal needs
0620 – galley is woken up
0645 – galley starts preparing breakfast
0720 – breakfast is served
0755 – muster on deck
0800 – colours (flags are risen), daily announcements from all the departments on the ship
0810 – cleaning stations (heads, showers, banjer, deck, etc.)
0900-2000 – 4 hours of classes, 1 hour of sail training, 2 hours of deck work, approximately 1hour of idle hands (if you’re not in class then you’re on deck helping)
1130 – lunch is served
1830 – dinner is served
2000-2200 – homework (usually one to two hours’ worth), club meetings, social time.
2205 – lights out.
2210-0100 – study area is open for students to do more homework as needed.


I’m awake from 3:40am until 10:20 pm every day. In a single day I will usually have about 2-3 hours of homework and 3 hours of deck work (a lot being cleaning). Some idle time will be spent aloft taking in sail and setting sail and more cleaning. Lunch and dinner are served for an hour, but watch often overlaps and a seating’s only half an hour. I will often nap for an hour. Tea has become a best friend on the ship. Any other time that isn’t spent in class, on physicals (helm, standby, look out, safety), or sleeping is then given to socialising, playing board games, writing blogs, club meetings, or just hanging out with friends in the banjer. It’s a tiring lifestyle but I love it and I couldn’t be reward in any better way: travel. 

A Family Port

Cadiz, Spain. This was the first port that I really started to relax. Coming alongside the yards were dressed (people went into the rigging and dispersed themselves evenly), my friends were smiling and cheering, from a distance I could hear from a distance the parents loud roars of eagerness to see their children. Fog horns blew, tears rolled down cheeks, and I couldn’t help but feel slightly gloomy. Mom and Dad were unable to make it because of financial reasons. I knew this but similar to the other seven orphans, as we called our parentless selves, I was secretly hoping that they might surprise me. It never happened and I was disappointed once again for even putting myself in suspense. However, the disappointment didn’t last long.
Four of my girlfriends and I headed out to a flamenco show with our biology/chemistry teacher. We made sure to stop for the comforts of home (classic candies) and dressed up the fanciest I have ever been since stepping foot on the Sᴓrlandet.

My heart skipped a beat at every stomp of the dancer’s shoes and every flail of the arms. From fear to pure pleasure the dancing had my emotions on a roller coaster. Exaggerating much? Maybe, but it was unlike anything I had seen back home.

The next day my cousins, who live just outside of town, came to visit. I was able to show off my glorious home and we talked for hours and hours about everything under the sun. It was nice to have family to visit with. Also, they gave an opportunity to catch up on some much needed sleep. I thank them many times over for that.

Choosing to stay in Cadiz, Jeff and Charo and Jake came along on the Class Afloat scheduled port program to Sevilla. A gorgeous town, Sevilla brought tears to my eyes and for the second time this port I cried. According to Jake, my little cousin, the Cathedral situated downtown is the third largest in the world and that’s not hard to believe. It was magnificent. If I had the time I would have spent hours there. All I could think about while sitting in front of the choir was how much my Nana would have loved it. We all have these moments where emotion takes the better of us and burning sensation from behind the eyes causes our waterworks to be turned on, but not for sorrow, instead for beauty. Sevilla became mine.
The classical also occurred on the third night. Pubs were jam packed. Like a can of sardines each person crammed in front of a television ready to watch Madrid vs. Barcelona. Despite having rarely followed European soccer in the past, after the classical I think a new tradition is in the making. It was a great experience being a part of such a culturally appetizing event.

On a final note, Spanish food is extraordinary, hospitality is great, and the Mediterranean is very cold in this time of year. I love Spain.




Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Halloween

How can anyone miss out on such a spectacular occasion? Even aboard a tall ship Halloween is still recognized as a time to dress up, dance, eat many sweets, and of course trick-or-treat. I was in the galley (kitchen) for a fair amount of the day leading up to October 1st. Caz, the cook on board, was busy creating homemade sweets, and to contribute I created a classic recipe given to me by my family on the other side of the world (New Zealand), Hokey-Pokey (sponge toffee).

Trick-or-treating was fantastic. We searched every nook and cranny of the Sorlandet looking for jack-o-lanterns which indicated sweets. The carved pumpkins could be found in aft cabins, chain lockers, galley doors, portholes, hatches, etc. It was a lot of fun, and a great relief from all the hard-work and extra time some of us were putting in on deck. I was once again a little child with the joys of a gift-giving holiday echoing in my eyes. Halloween was fantastic and could never have come sooner.

I took the role of a 90's librarian's assistant. Other costumes included: ghosts, pumpkins, maritime crew, Cleopatra, breaking news, flamenco dancers, and Tarzan.

Midterms... Yuck!

Exams are horrible on a boat! Despite overcoming the fear of major heights, being alone in a vast ocean, fifty-knot winds, and occasional home-sickness, it was the exams that I found most challenging. To really understand one must be a student, but just imagine a sewage tank erupting in your basement. The smell would cause every morsel of you to want nothing more than an abandon ship. Six hours in the banjer at a time leaves the head amiss and seasickness becomes inevitable. Exams take three hours to write. In that time alone I fill eight pages worth of writing for political science, twenty five point chemistry questions, or essays and multiple choice in English. It could be more but how can a teacher expect their students to perfect and not be scrambled for time when the funnels become a main priority. I'm not sure how to do well, I  just my best effort in and can only hope for the best when report cards are sent home. Fingers crossed, though.

The Land of Pastries

Lisbon, Portugal. I ate my way through Lisbon; it was a feast of pastries. From natas to chocolate mice and hazelnut pie, they had it all. Highlights would have to include the trip to Sintra, dry dock, and my favourite: soccer against a Portuguese varsity team.

An hour and a half on public transit so that I could reach Sintra was quite worth it. We had originally gone in a group of eight; however, some of us split off and visited Quinta da Regaleira. It was the summer residence of the Carvalho Monteiro family built in the neo-manueline style. I wish that I could talk a lot about the beauty of Regaleira’s architecture and gardens, but it wasn’t that which I paid most attention to. Instead, my three hours were spent exploring underground tunnels that connected the palace and the chapel, as well as many infinity wells which spiraled from top to bottom. Large crevasses allowed me to hide from my fellow class mates and a lack of lighting caused my heart to beat a million minutes a second as I attempted to swallow my great fear of the dark.  Bethany must have had bruises all up her arm because I tended to jump and grasp on for dear life every time something went bang.

Dry dock, the aftermath of a fishing line being jammed in Sᴓrlandet’s propeller, was an adventure of its own. How many people can say that they have seen their house from top to bottom, foundation and all? Walking down under the vessel gave a new perspective on how huge, or in some eyes how small, home really is. Furthermore, it was quite abnormal being completely still. To be honest, I found it difficult falling asleep and having nothing to rock me gently (sometimes abruptly) into my dreams. The workers were friendly though, and only once did a patrol officer monitoring the gate give some students a scare when he left for safety rounds and they only barely made curfew. Dry dock, in my opinion, was a great opportunity.

For a port program CAF organised a cultural exchange with the local school. Select students took us on a guided tour of Lisbon which included the world’s finest natas (recipe almost bought for 3 million euros), a maritime museum (very interesting because tall ships have now become a part of my history as well), and a visit to the extravagant cathedral. Afterwards we travelled back to their school and had a game of soccer with their varsity team. I had forgotten how much I loved the sport. Not once did I take the chance of subbing out because I knew that this may be close to the last time I play in ten months. Despite my team coming dead last, tears never swelled. It was all just a lot of fun and nobody had a frown on their face. I wish I could have stayed longer but I’m sure their team needed to continue on with practice. I’ll never forget that game.

Lisbon as a whole passed by far too quickly. I know I must say this often but I truly believe that it is a port for everyone. If ever you are in Europe make sure to stop in the land of pastries. I promise that you won’t regret it.


Wednesday, October 16, 2013

A major issue with our oceans

Yesterday the Sorlandet anchored just outside Lisbon, Portugal. We had an issue with our propeller. A fishing line that was floating about got jammed and the engineer was not able to remove it. Because of this, a tug boat came to meet us and we got towed into dry dock. 

They are going to see what they can do in dry dock but chances are the rudder, which is massive, will need to be removed for them to reach the propeller. This is not too difficult of a task, however, it is time consuming. If the Sorlandet cannot be repaired before our scheduled departure day then we will be taking a bus to Cadiz, Spain and get on the ship there. 

The real shame in all this is that had a fishing vessel been more careful than we could have continued on with our scheduled plans. It was a same in the Azores as well when the boat down the dock from us had a caught a sea turtle in it's net because it wasn't using proper equipment. 

Being out on the ocean has made me realize how often these things do happen it's a shame. It's made me realize that the ocean like the ship is vulnerable and we should try to take care of it because what one does affects many others. I believe it's called the issue of the commons. 

However, on the plus side it is an opportunity to see the Sorlandet out of the water which is really interesting and quite exciting.

Thank You

During the celebration of thanks for our harvests, I thought to myself about what I am thankful for. I’m thankful for my friends and family who have supported me, especially my parents. I’m thankful for my fellow sailors both at home and aboard the Sᴓrlandet. I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me financially and on an emotional level. I’m thankful for those who choose to read my blog because it gives me reason to record my life aboard the ship and to share my experiences.  But, most of all I am thankful for the teachers in my life; the people who have taught me manners, taught me how to read and how to write, how to act in public, how to hold myself, and how to appreciate every moment. So, if there is anybody reading this who I mentioned above, I hope you know that I’m thankful for all you have done to help me. I most definitely would not be typing these words in a Portuguese café if you hadn’t supported me. Thank you.

I’m Thankful for…

Thanksgiving aboard the Sᴓrlandet took place today. Of course classes ran as normal, but the feeling of family, friends, laughter, and an autumn breeze stirred across the ship. The face of almost everyone was lit up with joy. Best of all, however, was the little things, and some major things, that truly made it a thanksgiving to remember.

Maritime Studies, a daily class on seamanship, was mandatory for all students today and I dreaded this at first. I kept thinking that it’s Thanksgiving, why can’t they give us the day off? However, pro crew had some tricks up their sleeves and we played a massive game of tug-of-war which bent around every corner of the deck. Rope over 250 feet wound its way through blocks and crisscrossed the masts. It was a true family event. Our crew was split in two and we strategized like crazy. Secret code was shouted down the line and certain words had us hitting the deck faster than most can make-fast a line (tie a line around a wooden peg). The team I was on unfortunately lost, but it didn’t matter too much because we did to break two stoppers (very thick line) simultaneously.


The banjer was adorned with hand prints and messages which spread our thanks. Family dinner (dinner where maritime, academic, and student crew eat together) included turkey, stuffing, yams, carrots, potatoes, and best of all the freshly baked pumpkin pie! Leftovers were plentiful so I helped myself to at least 3 slices of pie and slept for 7 hours straight. Overall, it was a wondrous occasion which left us students counting down the days until American Thanksgiving. 

The Land Between North America and Europe

Horta, Azores. The perpetual summer has finally begun. T-shirts, shorts and tank tops came out of the sea chest and spring cleaning took place in the banjer, crew mess, saloon and personal spaces. The Azores was an amazing sight. It was the first time I had ever stepped foot in Europe and I couldn’t dare explain the emotion that came with this in fear I mightn’t do it justice. A bit extreme perhaps, but it was truly amazing. From hidden cafes and egg tarts to cobble stone alleyways and a massive beach in the cove, I explored it all.
The people of the Azores were beyond friendly. One local gave a tour of his city and introduced students into his home. Another invited some French speaking students for lunch. When the Sorlandet visited Horta in 2010, students left behind a message in the local pizzeria and the owner was generous enough to share his letter with us. It was a great way to connect with the past Class Afloat crew. And, to leave our legacy a mural, situated on the docks, was painted.

Most extraordinary, however, would have to be the 50 year old land that was part of our port program. I spent an hour walking along the sands and feeling the warmth of the ground. It was amazing to witness and feel something that is so new to the world. I kept thinking to myself that what I’m stepping on was an ocean half a century ago. To learn more about why were able to step foot on such young land, a pair of guides with spectacular personalities, took us on a hike to the summit of the volcano. Through bush and boulders we reached the top. It was too foggy to see the ocean anymore but just being able to see into the crater drew excitement from me. I surprised some when I screamed out to the world, but in all honesty, how could I contain myself.


The Azores were amazing. I loved every aspect of it and have not much at all to put down. People were friendly, food was good, scenery was out-of-this-world, and the crew always kept a positive mind. How could we not? It was the first stop after being at sea for two weeks. 

Friday, October 4, 2013

10 Things about the Atlantic crossing that I didn’t Think Would Be a Problem or I didn’t Think would occur, but They Did:

1.       Textbooks flying across the room.
2.       Trying to eat without spilling everywhere.
3.       Cleaning dishes in the galley, and avoiding any more casualties. Total personal count: 1 swollen ankle (hotel pans are painful), 1 sliced finger, 1 burned hand, and 2 bruised shoulders.
4.       Keeping the number of bruises I had under control.
5.       Sleeping.
6.       Having a shower without falling over or sliding from one end of the heads (washrooms) to the other.
7.       Drain pipes getting clogged and creating a stench in the banjer (sleeping, eating, working area) that lasted two weeks.
8.       Rolling out of bed when the ship pitches to port (right).
9.       Keeping clean. It’s such a struggle to find time for a shower and to do laundry.
10.   Getting dressed for watch and relieving physicals (helm, standby, look out, and safety rounds) on time. I had to find my foulies (foul weather gear), harness, rubber boots, and warm clothes.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

First Atlantic Crossing

Nothing is better than life at sea! Just after coming off the continental plate the rainstorm had died. A rainbow, reflected from the sunset, showed its full colours. Bioluminescent lit up the ocean as we disturbed it with our presence. From 0.5 to 11.2 nautical miles through the water, the Sᴓrlandet picked up its pace. Wave after wave the ship rocked fore and aft. Until swells came along, safety lines went up, and a sleeping standby watch was put in place. The excitement was riveting and our adventure, it seemed, had finally started.

September 23rd                              
Seasickness, nausea, and a spinning head for the past three days! I had the unfortunate luck of being in the top three for most seasick. No matter what I did, every moment I was working harder than ever to divert my attention from the rolling boat. The worst part was the fact that we weren’t even moving. The ship had only reached a speed of, at the most, four nautical miles. Funnels are located all over the Sᴓrlandet and I got quite familiar with each and every one of them. It was catch-22 because they say that the more you eat and the more you keep hydrated the less nauseous you will be, but every time I sat down for a meal I was forced to get right back up and head for the funnels.

September 25th  
I’m over seasickness now and the best part is that I made it without any aids! Today the rolling ship is barely noticeable. Only moving at three or four knots through the water leaves plenty of time to work on deck. Sand paper has become my new best friend and I rarely have time away from it. However, it does leave my home looking much better.

September 26th
The wind has finally picked up and we’re really starting to move.  Thirty knots is due for tonight. Coming off the continental plate the wind has been quite shifty. A large sail boat, such as the Sᴓrlandet, is incapable of a drastic course change unless the sails have been brought in, and to do this fast requires the hands of everyone. For the first time in three years the Captain has called not one but two “all hands”. This means that everyone, regardless of whether they are sleeping, in class, in study hall or eating, must report immediately to deck. Due to the shifty winds a sleeping stand-by has been created. Half our crew must sleep with harnesses by our bed side and in the case of an emergency we will be required to climb aloft. It’s an exciting prospect but whether or not our sleeping standby gets called on is a wonder. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see. Fingers crossed though.

September 26th
Today also brought rainbows galore. I was standing lookout at the time and I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was marvelous to see such a beautiful aspect of our planet. The rainbow had a double arc that formed a flawless semi-circle. Even the captain thought it was something out of the ordinary because he made an announcement over the PA system and brought out his camera. As the sun began to set the rainbow faded away and the depressing rainstorm returned, but that one moment made my entire three-hour watch worthwhile.

September 27th
I have realised how powerful the ocean is and how vulnerable I am among its waves and currents. The weather has held and the Sᴓrlandet continues to move a constant 10-12 nautical miles. The swells, however, have grown and it is now mandatory for everyone to be dressed in full foulies (foul weather gear) as well as a harness. Even the buddy system has been introduced. Everyone must be partnered up when they do safety rounds of the boat. Nobody is allowed on the foredeck at night, and the entire watch has to remain on the aft deck once the sun has set.
I felt quite at peace with the rolling swells and was enjoying hanging over the rails feeling invincible. It wasn’t until night watch that I realised you can never be in total comfort on the ocean, if so something must be wrong.
John, the chief mate on the Sᴓrlandet, was relaying a story to our watch of his experience in the Bounty ship wreck during a hurricane a couple years ago. He talked about what it felt like to be stranded in the middle of a storm with nothing to hold on to and no one to keep you company; how the giant swells swept him from one place to another and how it was a strobe light that saved his life. When the Bounty was struck the crew became separated and John was forced into exhile. He swam for nearly five hours towards a strobe light and waited to see if anyone would come. Fortunately, someone set up their search around that single strobe and it was because of their decision to do so that John is now a chief mate to my crew. The way he told us the story, it was obvious how little of that night has been forgotten in his mind and it made me realise that while I might feel invincible, the ocean is a lot stronger than I first perceived it to be.

September 29th
Today has been the hardest day of my entire voyage aboard the Sᴓrlandet. It has been physically and mentally exhausting. I really had to dig deep just to make it through until bed. One aspect of Class Afloat that is often left out of the equation is the lack of sleep and free time. Classes take up five hours out of the day. There is four hours of deck watch, one hour of cleaning, on average two hours of homework, and whatever time is left over is either given to meals or idle hands calls. Wake ups are done at seven o’clock, and I never get to bed before midnight. While I enjoy my time aboard, every little thing had eventually boiled up inside and I reached my breaking point. I couldn’t do it anymore! The books in class slide off the tables every few minutes, loud crashes and bangs from the pantry disturb sleep, homework overload catches up with me, idle hands calls leave my arms feeling like jelly, the port holes leak water all over my laptop, and worst of all I was vomiting every meal into the funnels. I had enough! I had let the little things get to me and I was now paying the price. Fortunately, one is never alone when the living space is shared by forty, and a couple friends just talked me through it all and comforted me, because no matter how tough things get, sometimes you just need to cry. I’m better now that it’s over. I’ve realised were only three days from the Azores so it has become a little bit easier to cope, but don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love sailing!

October 1st
Finally we’re under full sail power. Every piece of fabric we have is attached to a yard and the wind has been captured. 11 nautical miles through the water and spiking to 12.5, it has been a goal of the crew to be under full sail and now that it’s happening we are all on the edge of our seats with excitement. I had the glory of being one in four to set the fore royal. Climbing to the top of the mast is frightening. There are no safety lines that I can hook into when I climb and very little room for error. One slipup and I’m as good as dead.
Being up that high becomes surreal. It feels as if I’m dreaming and the only person who exists in the entire world is I. As the boat sways side to side I hold on for dear life praying that I can make it back down safe and sound. The people on deck, my peers, are mere ants to me; I’m infinite and superior and feel as though I hold all the power. The mast and the yards try with extreme effort to through me off but I keep a firm grip. Within the hour the sail is furled and I have conquered my fears! It’s time to climb down the shrouds. I eventually reach the deck and because of the effort four of us put in, the Sᴓrlandet has picked up its pace. We’re now averaging 12. The royal really is a place that contains some magic. I can’t wait until the next time I can climb sky high. Hopefully it’s soon!

October 2nd
First sighting of land! I woke up early this morning to go to the heads (washrooms), and on port (left side) there was the Azores.  After no sight of land for two weeks it was a wonderful surprise. Everyone was full excitement and the prospect of arriving three days early led rumors to be created and spread all across our banjer. Will we be able to dock early? Does this mean that there’s no Chemistry test? Is our port programming tonight? What’s the port activity? And so and so forth.


Tuesday, September 17, 2013

The Locks

Going through the locks was hot, muggy, hard work, and tiring! I slept through at least six of them, but the ones I was able to be up on deck for were quite exciting. At first everyone was gun ho for going through the locks but by the end we all cheered to finally being out of them. Now all that stands in our way, from here to the Azores, is salt water. I`m so excited! Check out this video that my friend made of us going through the Welland Canal:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N0iS5po6xw

The City Inside the Walls

I have been enjoying the streets of Quebec City for the past three days. Exploring the alleyways, boutiques and taste-testing almost every variation of poutine or crepes that is available.

Apart from Quebec being our last port in North America, it was also the first time many of the students and myself got a perspective on how spectacular the journey ahead is going to be! The architecture and European influences of Quebec City gave insight to what’s coming once the Atlantic crossing is complete, and I can't wait. Until Quebec, many of the ports that the Sorlandet has docked at have been westernized and similar to what most of us would find back home.

Sailing into Quebec City I was wide-eyed and excited. The architecture, as well as the walls which surround old-town, were something out of a movie, literally because Catch Me if You Can was filmed here. Our first night in port a few student,s and myself, took a random bus which ended up at the gates to old town Quebec. We finished the night listening to street music (spoons and a banjo) sitting on the wall looking over all of Quebec.

For a port program Class Afloat took us to Montmorency Falls, Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, and a sugar shack! 554 steps later I was at the top of an amazing waterfall, apparently 94 feet higher then Niagara. The cathedral was also very stunning, surreal even. And, to top off our second night the entire Class Afloat crew danced their dinner off at the sugar shack. It was such a wonderful evening.

On our third and final day in Quebec City I took a walking tour of the town all the way to the Plains of Abraham where my class mates and me enjoyed a picnic and discussed Canada's history. Did you know that there's a monument with both Wolfe and Montcalm in the city? Apparently it is one of the few, if not the only, in all of North America that honors two opponents on the same piece. 

With provisioning complete, a deep clean out of the way, and the purchase of snacks to last us all through our night watches as well as studies, it is now safe to say that this year’s crew is ready to embark on our first Atlantic crossing. Wish us good luck, fair winds and full sails. 

The Sorlandet is My Home

Safety; always look after friends.
Ownership; live up to what you say you will do.
Respect; know how to treat others.
Learn; put yourself out there and inquire new knowledge.
Accuracy; constantly work towards impressing the Bosun.
Neat; Store your things appropriately.
Dream; the reason you are here.
Eat; enjoy food and always stay full.
Time; be cautious of the showers.

Initiative; work with intent and for your own benefit, as well as others.
Share; talk with others about your past experience but also be inclusive about the new ones.

Magic; some things happen and there is no answer for why they do.
Yourself; figure out who you are as a person.

Hope; shoot for the stars but land on the moon.
Optimistic; always see the brighter side of life aboard.
Mesmerize; make sure others remember who you are. Leave a legacy.
Enjoy; have fun and be adventurous.

The Joys of Sanitation

Anyone who has ever lived on a boat, in a bus or under extreme water preservation rules would know what I mean when I say that I truly feel deprived of the luxuries I take for granted back home.
While in Erie, we were given full access to the Presque Isle Yacht Club. This meant we could use their washing machines, dryers, and best of all showers. Although it has only been two weeks I almost died at the words “worm long shower”. I never thought that would actually happen, but a 3 minute shower every few days really does not cut it on a sanitation level. Plus, you can’t exactly sing while in the showers on Class Afloat since chances are the entire crew will hear you.

THANK YOU Presque Isle Yacht Club for your generosity! It was greatly appreciated and the entire crew, my self included, are very apologetic about using all your hot water. Although, please trust me when I say it most certainly went to good use.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

The Flagship City

Erie, Pennsylvania. The American pride showed through from the minute our ship sailed in. We followed the Niagara (Erie's flag ship) in a parade of sails, which brought hundreds of people to the docks.

Not much of Erie, apart from the hospitality, was something to write home about. However, we did take a day trip to Niagara Falls. It was the most beutiful natural phenomenon I have ever seen. The Maid of the Mist, which is in its last year running, took us only meters away from the falls themselves. Although we were given complementary rain ponchos, a few of us decided there was no point in the attempt to stay dry so we striped down to our t-shirts and shorts. By the time the Maid of the Mist had made a full round it looked as if I had taken a twenty-minute shower. That was probobly the most amazing experience that I had in our Erie port.

I have to go, adventure calls. More to come on the crews personal hygeine attempts (showers!) when I blog next. Adios.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

It's the Little Things

As I sit here on the foredeck with hot cocoa in hand listening to my shipmates and rocking back and forth, I’ve realised that it’s the little things which make Class Afloat. You can count on expecting a major event to be that aha moment; the moment that changes everything and makes you appreciate Class Afloat for what it is. You can wait and wait for that moment, but all you’ll be is disappointed. I didn’t realise it until now, but there aren’t any major events that make you smile more than your friends will when playing monopoly or a port program which will pump blood through your veins faster than a raging storm.
I was caught off guard by the glory of Detroit’s Labour Day fireworks tonight. It was the first night I felt any home-sickness. The first night I discovered I have a best friend, and the very first time that it hit me I would be gone for nine months. I forgot what it was like to embrace each moment and live expecting to make the most of what comes your way. In all the hype of Class Afloat and Japan I didn’t stop to take a second breath.  Now that I’ve settled in and am beginning a routine, I understand how special this program is and how grateful I am to truly make each little moment count.

The Most Southern Point of Canada

Windsor, Ontario. The Sorlandet docked in Windsor this Labour Day long weekend. We made the stop as participants in a bi-centennial re-enactment of the war of 1812. Windsor in its self is not the most fascinating of all places, but we still managed to have fun during our visit. First of all, if you ever make plans to stop in Windsor ensure you know what it is you want to see. The first day was mainly taken up by a massive search for internet and followed with a short stop at Timmy’s (Tim Hortons) as well as engagement in the festivities on the waterfront. There were bands playing all throughout the day, different stands selling 1812 memorabilia, a bow and arrow target tent and tall ships docked alongside all of it, with the Sorlandet being the largest by far. To top off the night there was a grand screening of the childhood movie favourite “Hook” at the local theater.
Day two the staff aboard the Sorlandet decided to take us out of Windsor for the day and we made our way to Pelee Island (truly the most southern point of Canada). There we did a thirty kilometer bike ride round trip and enjoyed swimming in the great lakes. This, however, left me green and slimy, but it was still a great bonding opportunity for the crew and me.
Tomorrow is the big day! It’s my time to set sail for battle on Lake Eerie. Spoiler alert: The Sorlandet goes down in flames after it’s bombarded by another boat and bathed in a blood bath when a black bear is set loose. Lot’s more to come on the specifications of war when I post next. So, please stay tuned J and I’ll talk to you in Erie, Pennsylvania.  Bye for now.

Culture Shock

Before coming to Japan I thought I knew a fair bit of the culture, but upon arival I quickly learned how nieve i really am. The washrooms, unless western style, are pit toilets at ground level where you squat facing the wall; people here are so kind and the family I am staying with will do anything to please me (I can`t even wash my own dishes or do my own laundry); I also sleep on bamboo to keep cool at night (quite innovative). I can now say that I am fully adjusted to the time difference and enjoying every moment. The CCIA and Lions Club dressed me in the most beautiful kimono that would usually rent for 5,000+ canadian dollars. I even visited Yokohama, as well as go through a ritiual process at the Tsuruoka Hachimangu Temple which dates back to 1063AD. As for the different and unique food, I have tried snail, salmon eggs, sweet potato ice crem, and even horse. I promise to post photos soon.

First Days Home

It’s official! Class Afloat is my new home and as expected I love every moment of it! The first day we boarded the ship it was a living nightmare. I was terrified of being able to fit in, trying to remember my knots and soon-to-be-friends names, as well as school. It is all a bit overwhelming. These fears do often surface in situations like mine, but I thought it cliché to say such a thing. However, it’s a worry that was very alive and true.
The following couple of days weren't all that better and I found myself, once again, worrying about whom I’m going to sit with, how am I supposed to act and whether or not I was missing out because I decided to visit with family rather than shipmates.
I can honestly say, however, that those worries were foggy dreams and memories. Despite what Alumni had said, we as a group are far from being exclusive and distant with our friend groups. We have more or less formed one large family. It’s a wonderful feeling being only a week in and knowing that regardless of the time you sit down for a meal there is always someone who will pick up a conversation with you, or if you are down in the dumps another floatie is more than happy to give up their chocolate. I believe this is common nature in the most basic of families, and I can hardly wait until a month goes by, at which point one can only wonder where we will stand with one another.
The biggest question I have had so far is personal hygiene. Yes it is true that we have moments on the boat where water is rationed and showers are seldom, but at the moment laundry is done once a week and if you are smart about things you can average a three minute semi-hot shower every two days. I’m happy with it though because to be honest I was expecting much worse, we all were.
Deck work becomes the highlight of my time aboard. It means that there is a chance you will be asked to strap into a harness and climb aloft. Although I have only been up twice to date, it is one of the most exciting moments. There is a sense of freedom and nostalgia when you start climbing the mast. It’s a place on the boat that is rarely visited and holds maximum adventure.
Classes, however, are a different story. I am already dreading the time I need to enter the banjer (sleeping, study, hangout space) for class. Two days in and the Political Science teacher has my class of two working towards our thesis and surveys. I never understood what my parents meant by ‘old-school ways’ but now I do. It’s an extremely different world without the luxuries of google for research. One is only limited to the reading material aboard.
There is so much more to say about Class Afloat, but as I am quickly running out of character space I’ll end on a positive note, there is no other way to go while aboard the Sorlandet, and write about my top 5 pros:
1: Showers are steamy hot when they fluctuate in your favour.
2: Everyone is inclusive and friendly, as well as downright hilarious.
3: We love to share our “healthy” snacks (gummy bears, Swiss chocolate, hot chocolate, chips, etc.)
4: Teachers eat every meal at our tables and enjoy rocking it out to any genre of music at cleaning stations.
5: It’s never a dull moment aboard the SS Sorlandet.

Tokyo Disneyland

One can often forget the magic that Disneyland holds. Back in Canada I could have sworn I would never visit Disneyland again. I was too old and too mature in my on mind to be able to withstand an expensive visit to a simple resort, but after seeing Disneyland Tokyo I realized how silly I sounded. It was like being a kid in a candy store! None of us minded that we were sweating buckets, so long we got the chance to experience every ride possible. We all screamed and waved as characters passed by and jumped at the chance to wait in line, for what could have seemed like infinite, just because there was a slim possibility to get front row seats at the Disney water show. Every moment was a joyful and exciting one. I squealed like a little child more times than anyone could keep count and despite whatever thoughts ran through my head before I can insure you they are only a distant memory. Disneyland Tokyo was and always will be amazing!

Up, Up and Away


6 hours and 18 minutes until I board the first of many planes and set of on an adventure of a lifetime. After months of preparation and a bag originally weighing in at over 50 pounds, I am actually leaving. Before I depart though I just wanted to thank everyone who has been behind me and supported me 100% of the way. I hope you will find joy in following my journey and reading about all the crazy adventures I embark on. Adios for now!

Hello World!

25 days until I leave for Japan and I couldn’t be more excited! Welcome to my blog. I will be using this site to keep friends and family at home updated. Feel free to visit as often as you’d like. I will do my best to keep uploading photos and videos that showcase the various countries I visit, as well as the struggles and joys of sailing the high seas.