CLIENT: General Public Voyage
VOYAGE NUMBER: 20230810
FROM: Mackay to Rosslyn Bay
DATE: 11 August 2023
POSITION: Hexham Is
REPORT: Red Watch
Tap tap. “Wake up”, the watch leader whispered while tapping my shoulder. The clock had just passed midnight. First night watch was on. The South Passage was safely anchored at Curlew Island with all but Red Team asleep. Rehearsing marine terminology, taking headings to landmarks and keeping log made the hours pass by quickly. Before we knew of it, the shift was over and we returned to the comfort of the bunks. Any sweet dreams were abruptly cut short with the noise of the 6 o’clock bugle practice marking the beginning of day two on our journey.
Yesterday’s gale was replaced by calm weather and the main sails were hoisted without reefs. Not one, but two breakfasts got the crew motivated for the daily tasks.
Just before lunch the anchor was dropped in the bay of Middle Percy Island. Burgers was served and we were firmly reminded that cutlery was not to be used. The tender was lowered, and everyone was ferried onto the beautiful beach. Time to explore and visit the famous A-frame with plaques, memorabilia and souvenirs from visitors throughout the years. Likewise, the Telephone Hut was inspected with a book exchange and many historical messages from past boaties.
Most opted for a swim in the inviting bay with cold, but crystal-clear water. Back on the deck of South Passage, preparations for departure got the best out of all teams and cooperation across the red, blue and white crews made the next leg a breeze. We found ourselves in the midst of the bi-annual whale migration with sightings all around. A mother whale trying to control an unruly jumping toddler calf was a particular memorable sight.
Time between shifts was spent practicing knots, with our illustrious leader flexing his bowline tying skills behind his back, to great admiration from his team members. While the sun was setting in all of its orange delight, Hexham Island was growing in the horizon.