After much preparation we have finally joined Tenacious for its voyage from Dublin to Oban. Yesterday was spent meeting the forty crew members,the permanent crew and exploring our new home for the next week. We are all working to crew the ship and are now in 'watches' to carry out the various duties. After unpacking and then enjoying a curry, some crew members left the ship to go to the local pub, some slept and other were on their 'watch'.
Various crew members were on duty throughout the night and some were lucky and enjoyed a full night of sleep.
A 07.30hrs wake up call greeted us this morning and that signalled the start of a long, tiring but exciting day. Following breakfast of porridge, cooked breakfast and cereal, it was time to practice the evacuation drills
again and how to wear the life jackets correctly. Crew members in
wheelchairs were evacuated by others pulling them up the stairs using rope attached to their wheelchairs. Yummy cookies and a cup of tea followed the training. It was then time for personnel to practice going 'aloft'. Most got their harnesses on and climbed up the mast. With sunny weather and calm water, this was the ideal opportunity to practice going 'aloft'.
Following a quick lunch (soup and rolls) it was time to set sail. After much work we left Dublin at 1400. It is very windy and cold but we are all enjoying the experience. Much time has been spent sorting the ropes and getting the sail out and everyone has participated and played a vital part in the team. We are currently sailing on a heading of 025 degrees and are soon to enjoy a roast dinner!
Erica Vey (AP)