Location: 15 49.003 N 062 09.158 W
The entire crew woke this morning for their long-anticipated big sail south to Grenada. We wasted no time and prepped the boat for passage after breakfast. The crew took their first crack at leading sail raises on their own, and the staff took a step back. Some sea shanties were sung out as the captain and crew raced each other on the foresail halyard raise. Before long, we were leaving Montserrat in our wake and heading out to sea. Unfortunately, the wind decided not to come into work today and left Ocean Star to motor/sail its way south, but all is still good as the seas are calm and have made for a very pleasant day as we make our way out to sea. Spirits are high, and we ended our first day of passage with an absolutely beautiful sunset. We sat down to dinner and reflected upon all of the ridiculous aspects of land life and society that we do not miss being surrounded by. Heading out to sea has made me a very happy captain and brought to mind a favorite poem of mine, which I’d like to share with my friends and families back home.
Sea-Fever
I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and sky, And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by, And the wheel’s kick and wind’s song and white sails are shaking, And a grey mist on the sea’s face, and a grey dawn breaking.
I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied, And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.
I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life, To the gull’s way and the whale’s way where the wind’s like a whetted knife; And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick’s over.
By John M. (1878-1967)