20/12/11 - Tenacious

I write to you from slightly overcast Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where we have been berthed since the 11th of this month. The permanent crew have been working hard on various odds and ends which needed attention before we are to undertake our Transatlantic Voyage to the Caribbean on the 31st. Last week we removed a staysail which was in need of some new parts, but on closer examination it was not repairable. We have since ordered a new stay which will be arriving tomorrow and is due to be refitted tomorrow afternoon, here’s hoping the wind will stay light! As for our engineers, they have been busy with our port engine which has been acting up, again some maintenance has been carried out and things are looking good once more.

At the moment the ship is being cleaned from top to bottom in preparation for our Christmas voyage which is due to begin on the 21st. The Christmas decorations are in full swing and the ship now has a festive feel below decks. We are due to spend Christmas day in Santa Cruz de La Palma along with five other tall ships, there is to be quay side entertainment and fun for all!! Our new cook Ali is due to arrive any minute and we are all excited to hear what lovely ideas she has in mind for our Christmas dinner, I can’t wait!

A good week’s sailing is expected for out next voyage and we are all looking forward to the arrival of our next voyage crew on Wednesday.

Merry Christmas to all!

Ronan
Medical Purser