Location: Palau
GOOD MORNING VIETNAM!! I shouted this to wake everyone up for the day, with a loud background of Fortunate Son, while we were still at anchor in Palau. Breakfast is self-serve, and class is 9 am sharp; get up, everyone! Waking everyone up is one of the responsibilities as skipper, along with timely operations throughout the day, and Ive been planning this wake-up since I set foot on Argo. Unfortunately, the hope for repair and raising anchor through the night prior was shut down since finding the right parts tends to be quite difficult in the middle of the Pacific, but Captain Shane has been working tirelessly to make do. This day was packed with classes, starting with Student Leadership Development where Isaac, Sophie and Faith presented on Self Awareness in Leadership followed by a 10 minute guided meditation atop the chart house led by Isaac which was, for the most part, relaxing when there wasnt a burst of laughter over a strange noise or an accidental toe-nudge. This was cause for some amazing photography opportunities, some release of tension, and a morale boost among the crew after a disappointing turnaround. More classes like Navmaster, the reading proficiency of nautical charts, and Marine Biology came shortly after, accompanied by some knowledge reviews for Advanced Open Water Scuba Diving and Emergency First Responder information while we waited for the shore runs to return with good news. The brief two days of passage revealed the immense appreciation for ocean showers, leading to the crew spending a great amount of free time jumping off the ship with flips and splash competitions. Today was also the first time the new six-student council met, which I am part of, to discuss the destinations and activities for Indonesia. I am glad to say the voyage is only getting better! Dinner eventually snuck up, where Nacho made delicious pumpkin soup, along with tasty naan made by Jen and Sammy. One of the best sendoff sunsets captured the gaze of each person right over the lush Palauan island horizon. By the time dinner was wrapping up and nightly announcements were started, we all cheered at the news of a fixed engine, meaning we are setting sail for the night and on course for a reduced, three-day motored passage to Raja Ampat! I still cannot believe any of this is real, for my effort to make it happen was great and definitely not wasted.
My love goes out to my supportive parents and beautiful girlfriend Abby.
And to Isabelle, I hope life isnt too hard on you, and youre doing alright. Miss you all already!