Boobies

April 14, 2025 | FALKEN

Being at sea thousands of miles from land is a vulnerable place to be at times, and none more so than when the watermaker decides to malfunction. Our ability to desalinate salt water enables us to sail long distances without the need to carry arduous amounts of fresh water, but the operation requires constant maintenance and supervision. It quickly becomes a consideration of survival when this system fails and reminds us of the finite nature of the essentials that we very much take for granted in day-to-day life.

Thankfully this evening, Andy and crew went about a series of maintenance tasks that resulted in a happy outcome as healthy water once again flowed through the high-pressure system and into our tanks. We would always have enough to drink, but we have become used to a surplus with which we can occasionally shower and rinse our dishes after a salt water wash. The relief across the boat was tangible as the threat of losing one of our few luxuries was eventually overcome.

As we meet our daily challenges, we are rewarded by the constant delight of surfing down impressive Pacific swells in the sunshine, and I think I speak for many when I say how much I look forward to the cooler night air as the evenings draw in. Our daily ritual of ‘glums and glows’ during dinner is a time to unite the crew between the watch systems, to air our challenges and share our highlights.

Today, we have taken on a new crew member in the form of a Boobie that we have named Barbara, and who this afternoon was joined by what we can only assume to be her mate (Brian). As I type this, the two birds appear to be engaging in some after-dark activities on the aft guy, which is providing much amusement for the on-watch team. It’s amazing how much appreciation we all have for our new friends and how much entertainment they have provided.

It seems that without the distractions of the wider world, it’s the simple things that bring us joy.

Oops, have to go now, apparently Barbara just pooped on Hilary’s face…

- Emily