Bainbridge High School, Day 1, May 2014

Do you have any interesting stories about today….

Less interesting, and more of an observation… the level of organization that I’ve seen during this trip is so impressive. Literally everything here is organized. Explanations of boat life from the crew are clear and concise and no one is ever left confused. There is a clear method to how they teach, and it’s effective. They explain to us the base knowledge that is required for us to function in any given activity and then let us loose to try and figure things out on our own, making sure to give us any help that we need along the way without inhibiting our level of independence. I don’t know if it’s just part of the “sailor life,” or a part of the Salish Sea Expedition teaching method. It’s frickin awesome though.

There’s a rock that looks EXACTLY like a toad.

Lunch was delicious. We made pita bread sandwiches. Turkey, ham, hummus, tomatoes, lettuce, were all options. Salad as a side.

Before we began our entire science experiment process, they told us to look in at the aptly named “science boxes,” and “pick up some stuff that looks cool.” It was like exploring the insides of a treasure box. Kind of. It was an academic treasure box. What was interesting to me however was that THAT was how they presented all these (new) learning materials. It was very much hands on, like the rest of the experiment process. It was just cool how it was presented.

One of the crew members (Veronica, I think??) had to take two separate trips in a row boat, by herself, hauling a TON of gear. ‘Twas beastly. Props.

I could (in all honestly) continue for a while. I’ve had a phenomenal first day, just chockfull of experiences, memories and lessons that I know I will remember for the rest of my life. I’m stoked for the rest of the trip!

Any favorite wildlife sightings, quotes, games to share?

Many group members saw a fair number of porpoises. They were out and about today! Others saw some harbor seals. I, personally, struggled with being able to spot the wildlife. I stay hopeful that I’ll see some more in the coming days.

We played a trivia game today. That was pretty cool. I was asked to identify the different sails (mizzen, main and the jib!) and was able to hit the lunch line first.

The crew asks us some interesting questions, mostly as means to break the ice.

“Where is the most interesting place your pair of shoes has been?”

“Describe your favorite meal.”

“What’s the strangest food you’ve ever eaten?”

“What’s your favorite marine animal?”

We’re supposed to play some games tonight (???) Perhaps tomorrow’s Day Recorder will have more to say.

Describe the anchorage or moorage where Carlyn is right now:

We are not anchored tonight. We’ve pulled up next to a floating dock that is here in the bay and tied our lines to some wood railings. I was impressed with the captain’s ability to maneuver the boat into the ‘parking space’.

Today’s weather:

Flawless. It’s been sunny and warm all day. It can be cold (because of the wind) when out on the boat, especially when standing, but if you’re staying busy or sitting, the wind becomes less of a factor.

Describe highlights from today’s science and sailing watches:

Water watch did some cool stuff today. We were given the chance to work as a team to set the Carlyn’s sails. This process included learning how handle all the lines on the boat. Communication is an absolute necessity. We see this more clearly when the captain and the rest of the crew interact on deck.

Science! We designed our own experiment. We figured out how to use all the equipment on our own. There was some greaaaat teamwork going on. We were all helpful towards each other, we were efficient in our work, and ultimately, successful in the entire execution of our experiment. Data collection and analysis comes tomorrow I assume.

The fooood. We are fed so well. A definite (if not more of a personal) highlight!

A few personal highlights:

Vanessa: The entire deployment process. Traveling through the San Juans, and seeing all the cool new places. She’s explored around the San Juans before, but not this part.

Izzy: Seeing the porpoises. Putting together the Niskin bottle with her assigned group. It required a lot of brain work and team work. Success is awesome.

Ariel: Seeing the porpoises. Being able to experience all the weather transitions throughout the day. Being outside and learning all this cool stuff!

Do you have any questions, concerns, or expectations for tomorrow?

I hope to go on a hike, run around, and play Frisbee tomorrow. Boat life is pretty awesome, but I like land too. Other than that? Do yo thaaaang.