Day 8: Knots and head-winds

14 February 2023

Sargasso Sea

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The day began with a sleepy and relaxed atmosphere. We started our 11:00 watch with knot lessons, and I learned several useful knots. After the completion of our daily cleaning duties, the captain informed us that unfavourable winds from the North required us to lower all the rigg sails and rely on the motor. With an all-hands command, climbers were dispatched to secure the sails, and I mustered the courage to climb up to the upper top sail and assist.

Just in time, we witnessed a breathtaking sunset from high above, despite enduring the ship’s heavy rolling. Since we would be under motor power, our night watches were split and shortened to two hours. However, our expectations of an easy and calm night watch were shattered. With the help of the previous watch, we had to take down the outer jib and the main topmast staysail in the darkness, only to set them again after a short period of sailing. Although it was challenging, time passed quickly, and after climbing out and back into the outer jib, we enjoyed a refreshing saltwater shower in the late night.