Location: Villefranche, South France
Life was slow today aboard STV Vela, a most unusual surprise compared to the fast pace one comes to expect aboard, but very welcoming nonetheless. It was my watch team that had the honor to pull Vela into port, lower the sails and drop the anchor. Surrounded by multi-million dollar yachts and hillsides with tan-colored buildings, I, at least, felt very out of place. But then again, what better reason for being here on this journey than feeling a little out of place. Calling Colorado home all my life, I’m often reminded with just a glance over my shoulder how unique my new temporary home has become. Ports of call have become brand new adventures with every turn through an alleyway. The ocean has become my new favorite art gallery, my muse. And at the heart of it all is my fellow crew, my newfound friends, and hearty explorer companions. Together we braved the unfamiliar. Whether that be academic classes spanning from Seamanship to Oceanography like today, or late-night watches navigating between slow-moving fishing vessels like last night, they are always by my side. Thus, I feel gratitude for days like today when my companions and I can do simple things, like studying in the saloon or going for a dive and a swim off the bow spirit.
Of course, I cannot mention my said travel companions without also mentioning another very important group of people crucial for this adventure. That being the amazing staff who make all this possible. It was that same staff who today were hard at work cleaning Vela’s hull and disposing of our garbage (the worst game of ‘would you rather’ ever!). At the same time, we pursued our previously mentioned studious and recreational pursuits. If we are the brains of Vela (questionable!), they are the heart and soul, the backbone that keeps everything up and running. Much like my fellow crew, each brings their own brilliance and expertise to the group. As you may or may not know, we end every evening meal with a squeeze, stating what we are appreciative of for the day. It becomes clear very quickly that we would not be able to do what we do without them. So if you’re reading this (of course you are), thank you!
It was a slow day, but downtime breeds reflection and reflection breeds gratitude, so that’s what I wrote about. It is my hope you appreciate this more than me telling you about how I did my laundry today. Indeed tomorrow, we are back into our fast-paced groove, exploring Monaco and all it has to offer.
Photos:
1) Villefranche scenery
2) Akiva, Celia, and Liz Studying
3) Dani, Henry, Grace, Clara, Declean, Joe, Jaime, Zoe enjoying each others company
4) Shona, Leonie, Freddy, Brianne, Dillon, El, Garrett being wonderful staff members
Until next time, signing off.
Garrett