Captain's Log
V18/11
20 October 2011

PORT JACKSON

Ahoy there everyone, Welcome to day two of the voyage. Following a well deserved and much needed good night’s rest the Youth Crew awoke at 0630 to a stunning Sydney morning accompanied by a cheerful tune from Sail Master Kristy-Lee. After breakfast all hands mustered for the morning brief detailing the days activities and words of wisdom from various staff members,At 0835 the ship weighed anchor and proceeded across Sydney Harbour. During this period Captain Safety alias White Watch Leader, presented a very comprehensive safety equipment presentation and demonstration ensuring the no matter what the situation the Youth Crew should find themselves in, that they would have the knowledge to overcome any adversity at sea.The ship then received its daily clean and securing for sea, this activity is called ‘happy hour’ and has it’s own special song. A fabulous lunch from Chef Squizz was consumed before the ship weighed anchor and departed Athol Bay.The Youth Crew under the guidance of their watch leaders, then spent the remainder of the day motor sailing, conducting line handling and deck safety, gaining the foundation skills required to work the sails safely during their adventure at sea as the ship conducted a scenic tour of Port Jackson, taking in the sights of Luna Park, Darling Harbour, sailing under the Harbour Bridge and in front of the Opera House before exiting Sydney Heads in the late afternoon and entering the Tasman Sea shaping a course sou’ east. The ship was then called to tacking stations and executed our first manoeuvres as a crew. During this period our first humpback whales we spotted blowing and breaching while dolphins rode the bow wave.The Youth Crew having just completed a magnificent dinner from Chef Squiz, and are now settling into their first night watches learning to helm the ship, adjust the sail plan and conduct engineering rounds (checks of the engine room compartment). The one metre swell is challenging numerous members of the Youth Crew with their equilibrium as they adjust to the motion of the ship.Young Endeavour is currently sailing along at six knots, on a beam reach port tack under plain sail, with the intention of continuing our passage overnight.Until tomorrow evening, take care.Yours AyeCaptain Damien

Latitude/Longitude:

34°8's / 151°57'e

Conditions:

2300 at sea - weather scattered cloud, wind NNW 24 knots, swell NE 1.0 metres, temperature 19 degrees, barometer 1022 hpa