Early Foxtrot & Early Sierra Day 9: Fish Form & Function

written by Early Foxtrot & Early Sierra mate, Sarah McMeikin
June 17, 2017

This morning, after some delicious buffet breakfast and an amazing sunrise, we left the beautiful North Sound for Anegada. For the duration of the sail, the staff mates on each boat swapped boats so we could all spend time with other students and crew. Despite the sail being just one tack, it was a new challenge because we couldn’t see the island from afar as the highest point is just twenty eight feet above sea level. This meant we were able to test our navigation skills and truly sail on a bearing for the first time on program. All four boats successfully navigated the tricky channel and arrived ahead of schedule, with some time for a wonderful swim!

After a lunch of Greek pita breads, we made our way to shore to be trucked to Loblolly Bay on the other side of the island. Amongst the twisted trees and hammocks on the shore, we made our camp. Next was a marine biology lesson with Captain Rowsey and Mate Zosha about fish form and function. We learned the parts of the fish, how their gills work, how the shape of their mouth tells where in the water column they feed and much more.

After the lesson, we took to the turquoise waters for a snorkel to see the fish form up close. On the snorkel, we were lucky enough to see a small Lemon Shark, a big Barracuda and many Southern Rays!

We then headed back to boats for the world famous annual Chili Cook off! Boat teams came up with a theme for the night complete with costumes and boat decorations. Once the Chilean judges arrived on each boat (and after they caused quite an entertaining ruckus), the judging began. Chili was judged on smell, the ‘plop’ and of course taste. The winner of each category is yet to be announced (but clearly Paso Doble should win!). We then headed for bed early in preparation for tomorrows Race Day!