This is not a routine crossing (as far as any crossing can be routine).
We are on a mission. In December we are to round Cape Horn, and everyone
is aware of this. Before we sail into the Southern Ocean we need to be
fitter than we ever where and ready to take on anything the Furious
Fifties throw at us. For now we are enjoying the gentle Trades as we
make our way south. The Seven Sisters are watching over us as the Great
Dipper keeps us on the right heading.

Gijs

Of with a good start! After wrapping up the last things to do in Santa
Cruz we cast of at 1030. The new voyage crew did their familiarization
and were soon of into the rigging for the first steps aloft. The sea was
gentle and forgiving. Together with a beautiful sunny morning it made
for a perfect setting. Learning the ropes was this time not only for our
voyage crew.

The Bosun’s team decided to make some drastic changes in the leads and
position of the square sail sheets and staysail halyards. Confusion was
mild and soon overcome with some laughter and double checks. The changes
proved to be fruitful and made it easy for our new permanent crew to
step in.

Toby who had joint the ship in Belfast this summer has shifted from
voyage crew to permanent crew the previous trip. Megan and Mark have
done the same. Sam helped out in Zaandam during the docking period and
flew to Tenerife to join the ship. They are picking up fast and blending
into the routine of the ship. With the help of more experienced crew
like Matt, Elliot, Arran and Finn they will be on the next level in no
time!

This is not a routine crossing (as far as any crossing can be routine).
We are on a mission. In December we are to round Cape Horn, and everyone
is aware of this. Before we sail into the Southern Ocean we need to be
fitter than we ever where and ready to take on anything the Furious
Fifties throw at us. For now we are enjoying the gentle Trades as we
make our way south. The Seven Sisters are watching over us as the Great
Dipper keeps us on the right heading.