21/08/12 - Lord Nelson

"Repel boarders" came the call this morning, just after 0800hrs, Lord Nelson, our beloved ship, came under fire from a slick, sneaky yacht, John Lang, waterbombs and fire hoses were exchanged with John Lang's crew wearing the brunt of the exchange and ever thankful for their foul weather gear, a bit of entertainment for both vessel after the rather ferocious crossing of Biscay a few days early.Grand watches were had during the night with a good amount of singing, stars littering the skies above, angry birds (well they sounded like it) chirping from the water as we sailed passed.
During the day watches we were treated to a beautiful sunrise, the off-watches were woken up to bright rays of sunshine coming through their portholes. We were taught by Steve the Mate, how to tack and wear the ship then put our new skills to use as we tacked and pointed in the direction of Dublin. We were joined by a pod of dolphins as the wind increased, "more sail" called Marchin the Second mate, and up went the Top Gallent. She's a rocket ship and she sure is humming along now, as we write this blog on the afternoon watch we are cruising along at 7 knots completely under sail, all is well on board with everyone looking forward to arriving in port ahead of the approaching hurricane and getting in amongst the festivities that Dublin has to offer.
Thats all from the guys on watch on board the Lord Nelson, in the Irish Sea. See you all in Dublin soon.....Have our pints waiting!
Luke Galuszewski (the Kiwi),
STI "Young Sail Trainer of the Year 2011"
Aft Port Watch.