Written by Hannah, Marine Biology Mate on Libertas
It’s Day 9 of the Alpha 3 program, but more importantly it’s Challenge Day! Today is a chance for the students to take initiative and feel empowered to sail the catamarans. Our day began at 7:00am in Trellis Bay with a breakfast buffet kindly set out by Angelina and Madelyn. Our skipper of the day Freddie, mate Catherine Rose and navigator Roman listened to a briefing from Captain Charlotte to prepare for the day ahead. The weather was calm with a light breeze of 13 knots — perfect conditions for sailing.
The crew worked together to raise the sails, and by 9:00 am, we were sailing! Today, our plan is to sail to Bitter End Yacht Club, the last stop in the British Virgin Islands before the Caribbean Sea meets the open Atlantic Ocean. Our students enjoyed sailing across turquoise waters, listening to music, and problem-solving during the three-hour sail. There were lots of opportunities to practice tacks as we sailed upwind on a close haul.
We arrived to Bitter End at noon and enjoyed sandwiches for lunch to fuel up for all the activities on shore. Bitter End is a global sailing destination with opportunities for students to try Hobie sailing, have fun with water sports, and buy souvenirs from the boutique. Shore time was a welcome reward for the students who spent the morning sailing.
As the afternoon sun began to set, students enjoyed shower time and dinner prep. Pasta bolognese was on the menu for dinner tonight. Violet and Freddie shared the galley to cook a delicious meal for everyone. We ended the evening on Libertas with nightly chores and boat meeting before lights off at 9:15 pm.
