Day 2 – Into the Blue

We were up early and into it for Day Two. A 0615 wakey-wakey got everyone moving and up onto the upper decks for an energising walk with Sailmaster Kyle leading the charge. We finished breakfast and closed up and cleared away for our departure from HMAS Waterhen at 0715.

On leaving Waterhen we sailed directly to Athol Bay and Youth Crew were read in on the Morning Brief, Salty tale and plan for the day. White Watch Leader Matty then provided instruction on harness awareness and working safely aloft. Once all of the youth crew were happy with their harness fit-out, operation and safety procedures, each Watch climbed the Foremast and enjoyed incredible views of Sydney Harbour. Laying aloft takes some time and this activity pushed right into lunch. That didn’t stop our determined Youth Crew though.

Chefo Steve’s fresh wraps and salads were demolished leaving everyone re-energised and ready to start putting some setting and furling drills into practice. We spent the afternoon running a racetrack between Kirribilli Point and Athol Bay in freshening 15-20 knot Northerly wind while we honed our skills with the Main, Fore and T’Gallant Staysails. This was hard work in the heat, and we broke for dinner at 1715 before turning our bow to the North East and making our way out into the Deep Blue. The overnight challenge is to learn all about what is required to safely operate the ship at sea.

Watching the Youth Crew face their fears, form new friendships, and find their way around this beautiful Tall Ship is truly rewarding. Day Two was a huge success and we can only hope that the vote to exit harbour and turn left this morning was the right choice… Our end destination is Eden after all! Let’s see where the wind blows and what port we come into tomorrow.

Captain Leups Out+