0045 UTC / 13° 53.95'N, 026° 08.56' W
Sailing
Eleven Snippets from Adrienne’s Micro-Community that have absolutely nothing to do with sailing (because of course we're sailing 24/7).
This list of little moments might just shed some light on all the other stuff happening out here as we make this massive journey together.
We watch for wildlife. It's sparse, but we've seen birds, flying fish (one even jumped in the cockpit nailing Naxo in the head), dolphin and orcas. Today, I was especially happy to see a swallow - reminding me of my son.
On night watches, our responsibilities include more than helming. We talk - sometimes argue, sing shanties - My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean is a personal favorite, watch stars - creating new constellations at will, adjust sails and we keep a close eye on the radar - turning squall masses into shapes like hearts, baby dragons and grasshoppers.
The back aft deck takes on many roles, like a salon (Anton gave Naxo an award winning haircut), a butcher shop (Kif cleaned his first fish), a yoga studio, gym and a dance club (Manot is an excellent DJ - and Captain and Katelyn keeps us moving wither energy and enthusiasm).
The unavoidable “dampness” clings to sheets, clothes, boat cushions, wood and walls. In fact, clothes are mended, washed and hung to dry EVERYWHERE all times.
Culinary magic happens nightly in a tiny galley by three amazing chef - sailors. My personal favorite was the curry lentils.
Big “arguments” over super-important things like movies quotes, how to define a sauce, and what song to listen to next are had.
There's writers on-board journaling, blogging (thank you for suffering through this one - I promise this is my first and only), and responding to creative writing prompts.
Games are played. We're currently in the middle of a challenge that feels a little like “Clue.” It’s been fun!
Big thoughts, life’s questions, personal histories, paths taken and talk of family (pets too) are shared. Bonds are made.
Some are studying night and day for the Yacht Master Ocean Certification - which requires sextant measurements. It's been interesting to watch (I even took a measurement - of the boat ;), but I'm definitely glad not to be in their shoes.
And…we SWEATED!
There's so much more happening here and there. I'm beyond grateful to be a part of this little community in the middle of the Atlantic.
KATY FREYE
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The Human Factor
Thus our existence slowly reverted to a much simpler form of being. We start to notice the smaller things, we start looking up and around, we start observing our thoughts. Sailing can be a great social accelerator. Sharing hardship and milestones, friendships are born and evolve at a speed that would seem impossible from land. And after those three weeks spent with you, I am getting ready to leave our vessel with the profound conviction that those bonds will stay with us for the rest of our lives.
The Penultimate Blog from Adrienne II
After 20 days, and 3000+ nautical miles, we're back on land. The motley crew of Adrienne II, consisting of 7 happy amateurs supported by 3 professionals, have completed an epic journey many dream of but few realize. So much of this trip has been about being present - with nature, with each other, with this boat. My biggest takeaway from this trip is the amazing crossing of the ITCZ (Inter Tropical Convergence Zone). We all hope you've enjoyed the blog as much as we've enjoyed creating it.
Mother Nature, you’ve outdone yourself!
It’s been a great experience to have a non-traditional trans-Atlantic, as it’s been packed with genuinely cool features. The Doldrums!! A place sailors have been talking about for centuries. The unpredictability is what made it such an exhilarating experience. While some might be frightened or alarmed by this kind of weather, I was embodied with a sense of calm and awe. There’s something wildly beautiful about being reminded how small you are, while feeling so incredibly alive.