Wowzers Bowsers! It's so hard to believe that it is finally arrival day! We have all been waiting months and months for this! The day started with us six staff rising early from excitement and anticipation, knowing that we were getting a brand new crew later in the day. We did a final deck wash, floor scrub, and general sweep before greeting our first couple of students on the dock. Everyone was covid tested upon arrival- I had the distinct pleasure of jumping down, introducing myself, and politely asking them to stick a swab up their nose within one minute of them arriving- truly a great introduction. But, great news, they were all negative!! What positive news!
Once tested and after a big cheer, we hauled all bags on board, and the students got to see Vela for the first time. It was so cool to see everyone take in how beautiful of a boat she is and see their home for the next couple of months. They got time to unpack, chat, and wander the boat for the rest of the day. Students trickled in throughout the evening- with the last bunch arriving just at dinner time! Heather was our amazing head chef and was assisted by some students in making a delicious pasta and kale-salad dinner. Everyone was pretty tired from some long days of travel and was more than happy to climb into our bunks. An amazing start to what is sure to be an amazing adventure!