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19 - Tuesday, August 10, 2004 The TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE®is
drawing to a close, with only one more port to go! The fleet divided
in Halifax... The spectacular parade of sail out of Halifax Harbor
was a great farewell for ships like Cuauhtemoc,
headed back to Veracruz, Mexico; Mircea,
making their way back to Romania; Tenacious,
preparing for the Atlantic crossing back to the UK; and Pogoria
and Iskra, soon returning to Poland. Many
of those ships are heading north up the coast of Nova Scotia for
a few more stops in Sydney and Port Hawkesbury on the way to their
homeports.
The rest of the fleet are making their way on to Saint John, New
Brunswick via the lovely ports of Lunenburg, Shelburne, Pubnico,
Yarmouth, Digby, and Meteghan, where I find myself now. It's been
great sailing for the last week, with only occasional fog to hide
our view of the rugged coastline. The ships really do seem to bring
the sunshine with them! We have been received with open arms in
all the ports of Nova Scotia from the moment our docklines are caught
and made fast until the parting cannon salutes. The Acadian pride
is out in force with music, art, and food letting us share in the
unique culture of this part of Canada. We're getting a good workout
as well, clambering up and down the ladders to our ships - the tidal
range grows more dramatic as we get into the Bay of Fundy. It is
quite a sight when tall ships drop 30 feet below the dock! You could
almost hop onto the course yard of the Picton Castle
from the wharf in Yarmouth at low tide.
The warm welcomes we have had in all these ports will not be forgotten.
For many of these towns harbors filled with working sailing ships
are a recent memory. It has been a delight to crowd the wharves
once again with the sounds, smells and sights of a tall ship gathering.
Sarah Austin, Race and Rally Assistant
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Picton Castle at the dock
durin high tide |
Picton Castle at the dock
during Low Tide |
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Log 17 - Monday,
August 2, 2004 - To say the city of Halifax Nova
Scotia came to life this weekend would be an understatement.
In my entire experience with ASTA, this port festival has
drawn some of the largest crowds I have ever seen. Not only
did the people flock to the piers, but so did the ships. There
are about 40 here, which really does make Halifax the largest
Atlantic Coast Event.
On what was to be my final leg of the series, I was given
the incredible opportunity to sail on the 75-foot schooner
Grand Nellie. As most of you have
read throughout the summer, her crew consisted of five 15
year old boys, who have endured, and truly matured over the
past 9 weeks. As I arrived in Charleston in June, Captain
Jeff and the Grand Nellie team were
some of the first people I met. I was able to socialize every
now and then, but until this past week, my experience on board
the actual boat allowed me to grow quite close with everyone.
In fact I would most definitely say that my trip really gave
me the full understanding of what sail training is, and should
be about.
We experienced great wind as we left New London on Monday,
however that was about all we would see over the next 4 days.
Unfortunately the weather was gloomy, and we had to motor
the rest of our 400-mile journey up to Canada . Being a New
Englander myself, I was more than understanding in regards
to not being able to change the weather. As my father Dennis
has always taught me, “Control the controllable,” and that
is exactly what we did.
I was able to work closely with the boys day in and out. As
a current cadet at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, I am required
as a Marine Transportation cadet to take courses such as Celestial
Navigation, and seamanship. Let me just tell you, some of
these young men could perform tasks, and had increased their
knowledge and skill to level which could be comparable to
some of the things I have done at the age of 23. That is not
only a positive reflection and a quality of hard work and
dedication on the boys part, but also goes to show how talented
and truly amazing the Grand Nellie's
permanent crew and captain are.
In conclusion let me just finish by saying thank you. Thanks
to the ASTA team and the opportunity I was given this summer
to participate in the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Series. Thanks
to all of the crews of the many ships I was honored to sail
on over the past couple of months. My time at sea on these
magnificent sailing vessels can be summed up in one word.
Unbelievable! I have met many wonderful people over
my short time here, some I will certainly be friends with
for many years to come. So as I head home to New Hampshire
on Monday after the parade of sail, I am thankful. Not for
just being able to sail and enjoy these great ports of call,
but mostly because of what I learned about others, and even
myself. As I said in my first log, the USCGC Eagle
was my first tall ship sailing experience, and as much of
a special ship she is to me, and yes probably still my favorite,
my wealth of knowledge and respect for the many others I was
able to board and sail this summer gave me a much wider and
clearer vision for the sail training experience. It was an
honor. Fair winds and following seas to you all. Thank you
all.
Kevin Morrissey, 2004 ASTA Summer
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| Log 16 -
July 21, 2004 Aboard the 75-foot schooner Grand
Nellie on Wednesday morning, the race to New London,
CT began. As we sailed past the Pride of Baltimore II
with the “Ride of the Valkyries” blaring
from our stereo, I quickly realized how the friendly competition
created by the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® is such an exciting experience
for the participating vessels.
This was my first time participating in the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE®
and I was overwhelmed with the power of sail training. I was amazed
at the ability of such young people (a crew of five 14 year old
boys) to understand the many aspects of sailing, and to seek knowledge
in every new encounter. Our journey involved moments of beautiful
sunshine and sunburns, deep fog, rolling swells and perfect sailing.
A little bit of everything for my short 3 ½ days of sailing.
The arrival of the Parade of Sail to New London was somewhat foggy,
but ended in the wonderful regrouping of 13 tall ships along State
Pier. The weather and live music have created an upbeat atmosphere,
and short lines have allowed visitors to easily tour all of the
ships in one day. We can already tell it's going to be another great
Tall Ships® weekend here in New London before the ships head
up to Halifax on Sunday evening.
Brooke James, 2004 ASTA Summer Intern
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Log 15
- July 14, 2004 Sometimes in life you have
to do things that are hard; things that aren't that fun and
things that take a huge effort and commitment but yield great
reward. I learned this from my experience sailing on the Tenacious
. Initially I could not imagine what would inspire a group
of Brits to spend their holiday working on a tall ship. In
order to get the whole experience of being a tall ship crew
member they haul line (which they call rope), participate
in watch (which involves hours of sitting and getting up at
ungodly hours), climb aloft (it's called peer pressure) and
clean ship everyday (they actually call it happy hour). What
could anyone possibly be getting out of this? As it turns
out, you get quite a lot out of it.
My experience on Tenacious began
with an orientation the day before we set sail. The first
mate Simon, a rough talking Scottish man from the Royal Navy,
began by explaining our duties as voyage crew. The British
have a way of being completely serious when necessary while
retaining humor and fun. Everyone seemed ready to get
to work with a smile. The first order of business was to climb
aloft if you planned on being able to set sails etc. while
at sea. This was very daunting to me seeing as I chickened
out climbing aloft on the Eagle.
I meet with my watch group, the forward port. Our watch leader,
Richard, informed us we would be climbing the foremast. I
don't think I could have climbed aloft, for the first time,
on any other ship. My group, who ranged in age from 16 to
70 something, all seemed just as nervous as I. Because
of our shared trepidation and the reassuring words of my watch
leader, who offered to go up and be by my side, I was able
to attempt a climb. Shaky, but determined, I began the ascent.
Reaching the transition from the first ladder to the small
scary looking one that lead up to the first platform, I froze.
"I can't do this," I said as my arms shook and legs quivered.
The third mate, Roger, seeing my distress came to my aid and
coaxed me through it. Without his help I never would have
made it up. John, a volunteer who's been part of the crew
for a while and knows what he's doing, coached me up a rope
ladder leading to the yardarm. "Stepping on starboard," I
said in a nervous voice. Finally, I had made it. Climbing
down was much easier and I was determined to do it again.
The voyage crew knew how nervous I'd been and even though
we had just meet there were hugs and words of praise and encouragement
from everyone. I really felt as though I'd accomplished something....
I really knew the feeling of helping others as part
of a team being on board the ship. On the Tenacious
I was inspired to help others constantly. The ship consists
of handicapped voyage crew as well as the able bodied. When
you see someone struggling the best thing is to offer help
and although they might refuse, being able to offer assistance
to someone in need is one of the feelings I've ever had. I
also, to my own amazement, heard myself volunteering to go
aloft and set sail. It was actually fun although I don't think
I'll ever get over being nervous to do it. In my watch
group I meet two disabled crew members, Kate and James. Kate
made me smile with her irreverent humor and coordinated outfits.
James made my heart melt with his offers to be my eyes on
look out duty when I was tired. He is one of the nicest people
I've encountered in life. I snapped a picture of him, being
lookout on the starboard side as the sun is rising, that I
will treasure. The permanent crew had the patience of saints,
working with people of all abilities. I came to believe that
the first mate despite his gruff speech is a softie underneath.
The captain, who called everyone under the age of twenty "boy"
regardless of gender, was hysterical with his nightly chart
readings. And the second and third mate always had a huge
and a smile for anyone looking down.
Every morning after a hearty breakfast ("Cereal and hot breakfast?
Yes please!") it was time for happy hour. You would be surprised
at how happy everyone was to scrub the decks, polish, vacuum,
mop and clean toilets. I think since we all had to
do it and we were working together to make the ship a better
place to live, everyone was happy to do it. Even cleaning
heads, which I actually volunteered to do at one point, wasn't
that bad. Besides, after happy hour the cook and mess men
rewarded us with a wonderful British tradition called "smoke
oh". Each day, at ten a.m. and three p.m., biscuits, cakes,
brownies, flapjacks (oatmeal cookie type things) cookies,
shortbread or perhaps scones are served along with tea, coffee
and squash (squash is like Gatorade). This was definitely
something to look forward to as we cleaned.
If you don't have watch in the afternoon it's free time. One
day I took advantage of the opportunity to climb higher aloft,
to the second platform, for an amazing view. The water was
calm during our voyage and everyone spent a majority
of their rest time on the deck enjoying the weather and good
conversation. The dinners were amazing. On most nights, knowing
I had watch in the middle of the night, I usually went to
bed with a wonderfully full stomach after enjoying the sunset.
Watch from 4am to 8am was amazing because we witnessed a beautiful
sunrise at sea.
Tenacious did a harbor tour of New York City towards the end
of our journey. Many of the voyage crew had never seen
NYC and although I've been many times I certainly hadn't
come through the harbor on a Tall Ship. As we approached the
city people were awed by the tall Sky Scrapers and the statue
of liberty. I was a sunny day with no clouds. On lookers from
other ships passed us by and waved, clearly impressed by the
site of Tenacious coming through the harbor. We anchored across
from an amazing view of the skyline and the statue of liberty;
that night looking across the harbor at all the lights I felt
incredibly lucky for such a view.
We departed from NYC and made our way towards Greenport, Long
Island. I had the privilege of being on mess duty. Surprisingly,
it was very fun. The cook and cook's assistant required a
lot of energy and stamina from their "mess men" but they were
funny and charming. Even washing dishes was fun! I volunteered
for an extra mess duty. I love food and I enjoyed serving
everyone. The voyage crew, having done mess duty themselves,
was very appreciative and thankful. During some of mess
duty we participated in bracing stations. It was incredible
to see members of the crew, in wheelchairs, hauling line and
doing everything the able bodied crew did.
Once we arrived in Greenport I was sad to know I'd be leaving
the Tenacious. However, I soon learned I'd be working
on the ship while in port which I looked forward to. The day
we arrived, the disabled crewmembers were given the opportunity
to be hoisted aloft. I can't imagine their courage, putting
their lives in our hands as we pull them up by rope. Everyone
worked together and they all made it up safely. I witnessed
James, from my watch, climb to the first platform on his own
while everyone cheered below. James is confined to a wheelchair
but he has partial use of his legs for brief periods of time.
I had never seen anyone with such a barrier overcome an obstacle
such as that; it was emotional and inspiring.
The next few days were tiring,
harbor watch, cleaning, manning the gangplank, answering questions,
and yet I enjoyed it all. Having had the incredible experience
on the Tenacious I really wanted
to share it with people and let them know about their amazing
sail program. The experience ended with a voyage crew dinner
at a nearby restaurant. I cried knowing I might never see
these people again, and because I felt so lucky to have had
this experience. I have to say, perhaps the ASTA interns shouldn't
be allowed on the Tenacious, because
once you're on you never want to leave.
Rebecca McNeal, 2004 ASTA
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| Log
14 - Saturday, July 9, 2004 The first rays
of morning sun light glinted of the calm waters of the Delaware
River, as I began my voyage aboard the Grand Nellie.
There is nothing quite like the spectrum of colors from a sunrise
coming off the water when you first wake. So surreal that one may
think they are still within throws of a dream, as opposed to the
reality of a very early morning aboard a sailing vessel filled with
the sounds of young sail trainnees and the ubiquitous eyes of Captain
Jeff, and first mate Kyle.
From the moment I boarded the schooner Grand Nellie,
and saw the crew of primarily fifteen year old young men, I knew
I was in for a unique experience. Primarily from the south, generally
in there first year of high school, they were very able and willing
to run the ship in all areas of necessity. From raising the sails,
to cooking dinner, to standing the midnight to four watches, they
were all a tremendous asset to the ship, and taught me a great deal
about the ways of a sailing vessel. They were learning at fifteen,
what someone five years there elder would be learning at the Maritime
Academy. It was very impressive to see that these young men had
both the attention and focus necessary to help operate a ship.
Having been to Sea before on Massachusetts Maritime Academy's training
ship I thought I knew what to expect. I quickly realized that the
differences between a 75 foot sailing vessel and a 550 training
ship can be daunting. Every wave and swell no matter four feet,
or ten is felt with far more distinction on a smaller vessel than
when aboard the larger ship I was accustomed too. This manifested
itself in about 12 hours of being sea-sick, upon leaving the calm
waters of the Delaware River, and into the less hospitable north
Atlantic. After this acclimation period of being back at sea, the
remainder of the voyage was extremely enjoyable and relaxing. Traveling
under sail is one of the most relaxing things I have experienced.
No coarse sounds of a motor, just the rustling of the sails being
pushed by the wind and conversation between the members of the crew.
I was not sure what to expect of the village of Greenport, but I
was pleasantly surprised. A small quaint town, it has a very easy
going atmosphere reminiscent of a town on Cape Cod back around the
area I am from. The people I have met here have been very accommodating
and friendly other than an occasional jab about my Boston Accent
and Red Sox hat. If ever the chance I would recommend a trip to
Greenport for a relaxing long weekend, especially for boaters as
the marina and docking facilities here in Greenport are exceptional.
One surprise was the absence of any kind of fast food restaurant.
Every place to eat is more or less a family run establishment, and
all that I have been to have been excellent.
The arrival in Greenport also marked the obvious transition between
the sailing life, and working as an ASTA Intern member. It was kind
of sad to leave the Grand Nellie and her crew behind, but it was
good to press on with my summer voyage and see different people
and places. I look forward to continuing my sailing experience on
another vessel, and arrival at other ports.
Robert Simmons, 2004 ASTA Summer Intern
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| Log
13, July 8, 2004 Sincerely, when my dad told me I had
been volunteered for ASTA I didn't know exactly what he was talking
about... I'm a 17 year old guy from Italy, who, alone, is doing
his first real trip to another country. When people were
asking me what I would be doing in Philadelphia, I just wasn't able
to answer. Well, today I'm in Greenport, NY, and after a short period
on schooner Grand Nellie (just the time
it took to get from Philadelphia to Long Island) I could give an
answer to those who were asking. We had two booths down there, one
in Philadelphia and the other just on the other side of the river
in Camden, NJ. Those two booths were selling t-shirts, books, caps
and other kinds of stuff, but they were especially giving information
to the public about who ASTA is and about their programs foryoung
people like me... After four very amusing days of this kind of job,
quite hard for an Italian abroad, I left my accomodations in Philly
to go onboard the schooner Grand Nellie,
on which I had a great and, sadly, very short experience. On the
fourth of July, I was watching the fireworks from the stern of this
75-foot ship with Jeff, the captain, and five 15 year old trainees
who are very very funny. I already knew that I would have had a
great time... On the morning of the fifth, I woke up when we had
already left the dock and we were going south on the river Delaware
looking forward to getting onto the ocean. Once we got there, sailing
was different: I had never sailed in the ocean before that moment
and I was very excited! Those three days sailing passed very very
quickly, but I hope to see Grand Nellie and
her really funny crew again. This is the kind of experience that
ASTA and STAI (Sail Training Association Italy) made possible for
me and I hope that in the future perhaps more Italian guys will
come to the US like I did and more American guys will have the chance
to come to see (and sail!) my country.
Giovanni Assettati, member of STAI
(Sail Training Association Italy)
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Log 12 - Wednesday, July 7, 2004 Tall ships
are sailing by Long Island this week, but there's no hurry this
time! They are taking part in a "cruise in company" leg instead
of a race. The ships sail at their own pace, enjoying the summer
weather on the way from Philadelphia and Camden up to Greenport
on the north fork of Long Island. Ships can use this opportunity
to "exchange" crew - giving them a wider persective of what it's
like on board a traditional sailing ship.
Some ships will pass the south coast of Long Island, others will
be charting a course through New York City and Long Island Sound.
Greenport is a beautiful small town with excellent deep water docks
- several designed just for hosting an event like the TALL SHIPS
CHALLENGE®. The ships crew will enjoy small town hospitality,
and the residents and visitors to Greenport will have weekend-long
ship tours and entertainment. I have sailed into this port on a
tall ship before, and it's fantastic to be back. Greenport is a
train-ride away from New York City, and a hop across on the ferry
from New London, so we expect to see friends and tall ship lovers
from all over New England this weekend.
Sarah Austin, ASTA Race and Rally Assistant
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| Log
11 - Saturday, July 3, 2004 Tenacious: “Holding
together firmly; cohesive,” as defined by Webster's dictionary.
As for the S/V Tenacious hailing from Southampton, UK, her name
holds the same meaning but also so much more. Two weeks ago, before
leaving Charleston, I was offered the opportunity to sail on this
exquisite vessel. At first I must admit I was somewhat nervous being
thrown into the mix on a vessel from a foreign country with people
I had never met. However, as I look back on those 14 days at sea,
I must say it was one of the single most incredible events of my
life.
The crew of Tenacious,
and Master John Fisher were truly some of the most capable and competent
sailors I've ever worked for. The mates would go out of their way
to help me with celestial navigation, or learning the ropes literally
which helped to raise her 12000 sq meters of sail. Meters you might
ask? Yes, being on a European vessel meant there were quite a few
differences in the way things were run. For instance, I had the
opportunity to clean the loo (bathroom) three times. I enjoyed an
incredible variety of delicious foods prepared by Wendy our cook.
One of my favorites, I must say, were the bananas stuffed with a
Mars Bar, and then grilled, and obviously porridge was an option
I didn't take advantage of too often. The chaps on board were amazing
people. Let me just back up a second. Tenacious is truly a unique
vessel because of her mission. She was designed to accommodate,
and built by physically disabled people. On board during our voyage
were people in wheelchairs, others with serious medical conditions,
and yes even able-bodied seamen. We all worked together as a team
24 hours a day. Hauling lines, sweating sails, taking the helm,
and peeling potatoes were all things we did as one.
Now don't get me wrong, the voyage
wasn't all work. In fact every evening was enjoyed out on deck or
down in the magnificent mahogany bar, simply talking about current
events, or each of our countries' histories. I never realized how
different the United States is compared to one of our closest allies
the United Kingdom. I can now say that I am confident when speaking
about houses of Parliament and the British Monarch thanks to my
wonderful watch leader, Russell Greenstock. I became good friends
with a young man my age also from the northeast on board as a journalist
for a Philadelphia paper, and we both introduced all the “Brits”
to the music of Jimmy Buffet. It was as we say in Boston, a “wicked
awesome” time.
Some of the more memorable moments
of the cruise for me would have to be hoisting some of our wheelchair
users to the platform on the foremast outside of the Delaware River.
To see their faces light up with joy as they take in the view from
100 feet off the deck was quite gratifying. My appreciation of life
will be forever changed by these incredible people. On a more personal
note, I was given the helm by Capt. Fisher coming into Philly harbor
on Wednesday afternoon. It was a lot of fun to see all of the people
waving to what is the largest tall ship in this port. I never thought
I would look aft and see the British ensign flying on the ship I
was steering. It was a great honor to do so.
On a final note, I would like to send
my sincerest thanks to everyone on board Tenacious
on voyage 114. We came together not knowing what to expect, and
on the end it was quite tough saying goodbye. Not only did I learn
a lot about others, I learned a lot about myself. I will certainly
work my best in spreading the word about such a wonderful organization
as the Jubilee Sailing Trust. God bless you all, and “God save the
Queen!”
Kevin Morrissey, 2004 ASTA Summer
Intern
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| Log
10 - Wednesday, June 30 The plane descended through
slight cloud. There I saw a river drawing a beautiful curve. It
was obvious to me that the river was where all the tall ships would
gather. I was watching the surface of the river carefully. And as
the plane got closer to the city, I found a few masts by the bridge.
Friends from last year's ASTA internship,
Cal and Sarah, came to pick me up at the airport. “Good to see you
again!” – yeah, it surely is good to see “salty” friends from old
times.
The third port of this year's TALL
SHIPS CHALLENGE® series is held by two cities, Philadelphia
and Camden which reminds me a little bit about my first sailing
trip. I was onboard the Japanese sail training ship KAISAI (now
Antiguan flag) from Mokpo to Yokohama for three weeks, joining Sail
Korea 2002. At that time, my country Nippon (Japan) and our neighbor
country, Daehaming (Korea) was co-organizing the FIFA World Cup
Soccer Japan/Korea. As it drew closer towards the championship
game, we felt a sense of togetherness and camaraderie, which was
more than we had ever experienced in the past.
In the evening, we had the welcome
ceremony and award ceremony together at the beautiful waterfront
of Camden, New Jersey. The mayor of Camden welcomed the ships and
the crew with great enthusiasm. Then Steve Baker, Race Director,
presented the trophies for the race leg 2.
The festival has an international
atmosphere. Unfortunately, we don't have a participating vessel
from Asia this summer, however, we have ships from Poland, England,
and Belgium in this port. And the crews themselves come from all
over the world. They all come together to mingle and socialize in
the ports. This is, of course, one of the best parts of the TALL
SHIPS CHALLENGE® experience.
Itaru Terashima, 2003 ASTA Summer Intern and 2004
ASTA Volunteer
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Log 9 - Thursday,
July 1, 2004 The ASTA fleet has completed
race 3 in the series and sailed into Camden, NJ and Philadelphia
yesterday for the Two Cities, One Waterfront TALL SHIPS
CHALLENGE® celebration. 7 Vessels including those
from Belgium and England are berthed on the Camden side
of the Delaware River and the two Polish ships and three
others are at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia. The tall ships
in front of the Philadelphia skyline make a beautiful sight
from Camden and vice versa.
The vessels will be open to
the public from 10-5 on Thursday through Sunday (July 1-4).
A boarding pass costs $5, or a $10 pass also includes a
round trip ferry ride across the river so you can see all
the ships. Come to the waterfront to welcome the young
sailors from all over the world and to relive the maritime
history of the region.
We would like to welcome four
volunteers to the ASTA Race Team – last year's interns Cal
Pifer from Texas and Itaru Terashima from Japan; Giovanni
Assettati from Italy; also Sally Braden, a regular volunteer
from the Los Angeles Maritime Institute, home of the twin
brigantines, Irving and Exy Johnson.
And Rob Simmons from Norwell,
MA has joined the ASTA Race Team as an intern. Rob
will be a senior at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
The weather promises to be
somewhat cooler for the events in Camden/Philadelphia –
please stop by at the ASTA booth to say hello and to learn
more about sailing on our ships and getting involved in
our association.
Steve Baker, ASTA Race Director
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8 - Friday, June 24, 2004 On the longest
race leg so far the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE fleet is pressing
north towards the Delaware Bay . The ships paraded out of
Charleston under overcast skies on Monday, passing flocks
of 420s racing in the Harbor. Starting with a fair breeze
the ships emerged from the haze and charged across the starting
line. The crew of the Grand Nellie
strategized well and crossed the line first, followed by an
impressive series of ships – Cisne Branco,
Zenobe Gramme, Tenacious,
Pogoria, and Mircea.
The Eagle and Cuauhtemoc
started the race with the other ships but then diverged to
visit a few other ports before they rejoin the Challenge fleet
in Newport, RI . Don't forget to check out the map of daily
positions of the racing fleet on the link to the left. You
can envision the tactics and strategy of each vessel as they
try to take advantage of the wind and currents.
With their clouds of sail the
tall ships are easy to spot, but there's something a little
smaller you can be looking for as well… The crew if the Belgian
ship Zenobe Gramme has made a tradition
of setting off a message in a bottle every Sunday, no matter
where in the world they are sailing. Keep your eyes peeled
around the Delaware Bay, you may find an international note
washed up on the beach!
We're certainly sad to leave
a city as charming as Charleston – but we can't wait to see
what Camden and Philadelphia have lined up for the 4th of
July weekend.
Sarah and Jessica, 2004 ASTASummer Interns
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Log 7 - Saturday, June 19, 2004
Early Sunday evening on the 13th of June, Rebecca and I
said goodbye to Jess as she departed for the Tenacious.
After that, reality hit and we realized that we were about
to actually SAIL on a REAL ship to Charleston. That night
we packed and walked to the Coast Guard Ship, the Eagle.
The enormity of the boat was somewhat overwhelming as we
walked beside it, the night sky shrunk away as we stepped
up to the planks in order to board the ship. We were greeted
by a 6 foot plus cadet who then directed us on our way -
with Steve, Sarah, and Adria taking pictures and seeing
us off. We were led into our bunks which were in the Bear
berth, where we chose our beds (which were probably only
2 feet in hight each, no joke) and then tried to get acclimated
to our new location.
The first day we rose early because the Eagle
had to lower and then re-raise the mast in order to get
under the bridge. After several hours of preparation, a
second docking, and lots of work we were finally off. Due
to some difficulties, and the Eagle's
firm belief in saftey, we got a later start then planned.
After sail stations (where both Rebecca and I got a chance
to help raise the sails) we did finally begin the race around
18:30. The next day we were given a chance to climb aloft,
taught how to work the lines, and given a crash safety course
where we were required to put on the “gumbi” suits, which
were enormous dry suits that zipped up to cover your entire
body. The wind was not very strong, which made the climbing
easier, but wasn't much help for us in the race.
The next few days were pretty slow because of the lack
of wind and the size of the Eagle,
but Rebecca and I got a chance to do some drills with the
cadets, help trim the sails, and I got a chance to climb
up to the royal. In order to make it to the port on time,
we were forced to turn on the motor, and catch up with the
other ships. Overall, however it was a wonderful trip. I
met many interesting people, got a chance to take some classes
aboard the ship, and helped with sailing. We were greeted
by Steve and Kevin (our new intern) and I must admit that
I was very sad to get off the ship. But hey, it's
Charleston, so I can't complain!
Elizabeth Brin, 2004 Summer Intern
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6 - Saturday, June 19, 2004 Charleston,
South Carolina; southern hospitality, historical landmarks,
and of course this week at least, amazing tall ships from
all around the world. I joined the ASTA team this week in
the port of Charleston, and although thunderstorms gave us
a wet beginning to the port visit, all of crews and volunteers
were very much enthusiastic to what should has become a successful
festival turnout. And boy did it pay off. Thursday through
Saturday have been sunny, and just a tad on the warm side,
about a 100 degree heat index, the people are coming to visit
in droves. For me it has been a gratifying and unique experience
thus far. Although the southerners have made it quite apparent
to me that I possess the highest qualities and traits of a
true Yankee, they have all been “wicked” nice just the same.
I knew I was in the right place when I began setting up the
ASTA booth on Thursday morning and looming out on the horizon
appeared the silhouettes of many square sails, the class A
vessels. If you have not experienced the site of a 300 foot
Barque under sail out at sea, let me just say it is awe inspiring.
Even now as I am overlooking the harbor, the Pride
of Baltimore II is heading out for a day sail
along with the Grand Nellie. These
vessels add so much character to the area when they are under
way. Of course the pirates firing off their muskets and reenacting
the olden days of gold and riches adds to it as well. As a
cadet currently at Massachusetts Maritime Academy our school
motto “GO BUCS!” comes to mind.
To give you a short history of my first experience on a tall
ship, was amazing to say the least. I was a cadet at the United
States Coast Guard Academy, and “Eagle”
was her name. We sailed her out of Portland, Maine to New
Port, RI. I can remember the teamwork raising her sails, taking
the helm for the first time, and one of the more beautiful
moments of that voyage was hanging out on the mainmast yard
on, moving as one with the sea, while watching the sunset.
Total peace is how I would sum it up. Today it remains the
single most memorable experience of my life. So I apologize
if I seem partial to the USCGC throughout the summer.
Overall my internship is proving early on to be an excellent
and rewarding experience. I am looking forward to sailing
on the British ship Tenacious for
the next leg of the race, and I will be sure to update you
all when we arrive in Philly and Camden on the voyage. The
parade of sail out of Charleston should be pretty cool. So
that's all for now, fair winds and following seas until next
time and Happy Fathers Day Dad.
Kevin Morrissey, 2004 Summer
Intern
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4 - Sunday, June 13, 2004 Today was the second
“real” day of work here in Jacksonville. In the
morning, Jessica and I helped set up the booth. A lot more
people were out today than yesterday. We were very busy at
the booth and it was great because people were interested
in ASTA and our mission. It was extremely hot but we persevered
and it was a successful day.
Yesterday the other interns and I participated in the Parade
of Sail. Elizabeth, Jess and I sailed on the Pogoria,
which was interesting because none of us speak Polish and
the most of the crew didn’t seem to know much English.
It was my first experience being on a tall ship and I loved
being out on the water. I witnessed the teamwork and camaraderie
of the ship’s crew, which was very impressive.
Friday night the crews of each ship gathered for a soirée
at a beautiful park right on the water in downtown Jacksonville.
Steve got up on stage and introduced each crew and announced
the results of the Miami to Jacksonville Race. Each crew from
the race came up for a big round of applause. I especially
enjoyed seeing the Mexican crew because of their obvious enthusiasm
and impressive dancing ability. The night was also a good
bonding experience for the race team since we got to enjoy
an evening out together.
Saturday night fireworks lit up the sky of Jacksonville. Adria,
Sarah, Elizabeth, Jess, two super cool crew members from the
Unicorn (Rhys & Pat) and I
witnessed the amazing display from the 15th floor hotel window.
Even though I’m exhausted the experience thus far has
been awesome. I cannot wait to see what’s to come as
we make our way to Nova Scotia.
Rebecca McNeil, 2004
ASTA Summer Intern
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Log 3 - Thursday, June 10, 2004
Day 3 of our stay in Jacksonville, Florida. It’s sunny,
hot, and borderline raining (for those of you who didn’t
see the 5:30 local Jacksonville news, Jacksonville was smack
in between two hard core rain and thunder storms, but luckily
in the clear). The spirits are high and energy is moving
as we are all getting ready for the next couple days of
festivities to begin.
Looking out of the window of my 15th floor room I can see
the ships lined up on the docks with their flags flying
from their rigging. Crazy to think that by tomorrow I will
not only be looking at all of the ships lined up, but also
staring directly at the masts of the Eagle,
one of the biggest tall ships participating in this challenge.
The past few days have consisted of a lot of packing, unpacking,
loading, unloading, running around, waiting around, and
basically getting all of the work done before the FUN begins,
but that time is finally upon us. Although tedious at times,
the work has definitely created a stronger bond between
the interns and the staff members, which will not only help
ASTA run more smoothly throughout the summer, but help the
whole operation be a good and fun experience for all of
us.
By 1:00 this afternoon the ASTA booth was set up, the wind
had picked up and we were ready to work. Hurrah!! While
waiting for some booth material to be picked up I had the
lucky opportunity of watching the Pogoria
and the Pride of Baltimore II
come into port. What an incredible experience. The view
of the ships was truly awe inspiring. Struck by the same
beauty that I saw, many people came up and asked me what
this event was all about. Telling them all I could about
the races that are happening they gladly listened and inquired
how they could have a chance to participate. The whole air
about this port seams to be of intrigue and excitement.
I can’t wait until the festivities get under way and
then we are off to our next destination, via ship I hope!
Elizabeth Brin, 2004 ASTA Summer Intern
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Log
2 - Monday, June 7, 2004 It
was a beautiful evening off Miami for the start of the first
race in the 2004 TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® series - from Miami
to Jacksonville, Florida.
The race stepped off at 1800
on Monday June 7 with four tall ships competing including
Mexico's Cuauhtemoc, Poland's Pogoria,
Tenacious from the UK and Grand
Nellie from the USA.
Special thanks to the Key Biscayne
Yacht Club for providing the race committee boat Lucky
Day II, as well as several volunteers to serve
on the race committee.
As of 1100 Tuesday June 8, Grand Nellie
was reported in the lead at 138 nautical miles from the sea
buoy off Jacksonville.
The vessels are expected to
arrive in Jacksonville throughout the day Wednesday June 9
where they will be open to the public for boarding |
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during the first
2004 TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® port event, Sail Jacksonville
2004. Hope to see you there!
Steve Baker, ASTA Race Director
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Log 1 - Sunday, June
6, 2004 The majestic
arrival of four tall ships to Miami, Florida has captured alot of
attention. Rising over top of immense cruise ships coming and going
we can see t'gallant masts giving away their presence! Many people
have found their way down to the docks to see these beautiful ships
up close. There isn't a festival here, just a stopover as the Pogoria,
Cuauhtemoc, Grand Nellie,
and Tenacious get ready to test their
ships and skills in the first race of the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE 2004.
The fleet begins as a good cross-section of the diversity of ASTA
members: a Polish barquentine with a crew including older adults
who trained aboard the ship in years past, a naval cadet training
ship from Mexico, a Marconi rigged American schooner with a group
of teen trainees, and a barque from the UK specially constructed
to allow full participation of both able-bodied and physically disabled
trainees.
In the heat and humidity of southern Florida the vessels' crews
are making final racing preparations. The race start is scheduled
for around 6pm Monday afternoon. The forecast is for light winds
and scattered showers - not ideal racing conditions, so the crew's
handling of each ship will count for a lot in this leg of the race.
The ships will finish the race off Jacksonville, Florida by the
10th of June. There they will be joined by several other vessels
for Sail Jacksonville. After these months of planning we're really
looking forward to the kickoff festival of our summer series. The
fleet of ships will increase in number, and so will our Race Team,
as we're joined by our summer interns
Jessica, Rebecca, and Elizabeth. Adria, our Education Coordinator,
will also be on hand to oversee a full-fledged ASTA
Education Center.
There are still a few vacant berths on participating tall ships
for those of you who'd like to sail in the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE
2004. You can send an email to sarah@sailtraining.org for more information.
Whether you're coming aboard as crew or just coming to enjoy the
ship tours and festivals, we can't wait to see you in Jacksonville
(...and Charleston, Camden, Philadelphia, Greenport, Newport, New
London, Halifax and Saint John!)
Sarah Austin, ASTA Race and Rally Assistant |
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The young trainees of the Grand Nellie
