Captain's Log
V02/25 Eden to Melbourne
18 January 2025

Day 4 – Sailing with the Baby Sperm Whales

This is Alice and Harry coming live from the middle of the Bass Strait, having just spotted two sperm whales which was awesome. We aRRRe almost at Deal Island!

Day 4 started off pretty rough, but we soon were distracted by the Whities morning wakeup call with a custom written remix of Thrift Shop, followed up with a delicious breakfast cooked up by Chef Alex. The morning brief displayed the Staffies’ words of wisdom; including a very inspirational quote from our Captain Leups written by Maya Angelou: “You may encounter many defeats but you must not be defeated. In fact it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” In combination with ‘Nan’ Karsen’s sea fable poetry, we were comforted by and excited to continue the traditions of ye ol’ sailors! Additionally, today’s action and phrase was, “I like the cut of your Jib, mate!” (with a nose tap).

We then had a very queasy happy hour, where we quickly cleaned the lower decks and then rushed back up top ready for Kars and Bec’s informative maritime traffic systems briefing. Although the signs were unfamiliar, many of the rules reminded us of completing our Ls and Ps tests. Thankfully all the Staffies share tips and rhymes to help us remember lots of new sailing theory in a short amount of time. Next, as everyone was feeling under the weather, Chef Alex came in and saved the day with his delish toasties.

After a quick hour rest/siesta that brought us to 1300, everyone was then ready to listen to Captain Leups brief about sail theory. Who knew that there was so much science behind some wind and pieces of fabric?! We then applied this newly learnt knowledge by heaving up three square sails. They look amazing!

Now as the first watch settle into their shift, we are going at a steady 5-6 knots and the seas have calmed, which means we will reach Deal Island by tomorrow!! We can’t wait to touch dry land again and go for a swim.

Day 4 had us mentally overcome the seasickness and push through knowing that there will be better seas ahead.

Harry and Alice out +

 

Latitude/Longitude:

38 47.9S / 149 01.1E

Conditions:

Weather: Overcast Wind: 15kn E-NE Temp: 22C