CLIENT: Training Voyage
VOYAGE NUMBER: 20241020
FROM: Coffs Harbour To: Manly
DATE: 20 October 2024
POSITION: Yamba
REPORT: White Watch
We commenced the day with smart manoeuvring away from the berth, which saw us head against strong southerly and out of Coffs Harbour. Our talented Skipper, Jim, made a fast decision to surprise us with a Man Overboard drill, which was completed in good time. Lovely rolling swells ushered us into the open ocean where we started preparation for hoisting the staysail, jib and foresail. This was fun in the fairly strong southerly breeze and provided ample opportunity for exceptional training to be provided to the volunteer crew.
A significant part of the day involved practicing sailing manoeuvres including preparation, raising and dropping sails along with frequent gybeing in watch rotations providing everyone opportunity to test out a variety of skills, including being on forward watch to look out for obstacles such as whales and dolphins – which we were privileged to enjoy sighting – and helming the ship, which allowed each person to experience the power of the wind and waves.
The volunteer crew and participants reported great satisfaction from engaging in team work to effectively sail the passage to Yamba. For dinner very happy to share with you that we enjoyed tasty butter chicken with veg then desserts. Big thanks to Chef Cath and to our patient and highly knowledgeable crew including our own Watchleader Dave, along with other Watchleaders Russel and Chris, Skipper Jim, Sailing Master Peter and Training Coordinator Kate for getting us safely through the first day.