Location: Gallachan, Isle of Muck

Position: 56 50.6 N, 06 14.7 W

Distance covered: 17.5 nm

We were awakened by the sound of the Captain making porridge. We left the anchorage under an unpromising, leaden sky.  Cormac, having trained us in distance estimation, set us to work at the mast and the science station.  The idea was that, as we sighted a marine mammal or shark, we would holler out its location and distance from the boat.  On our journey to Muck, the sea condition worsened, and Cormac mercifully relieved us of duty.  No mammals were sighted except for a few seals (?gray and/or common) in the harbour on the Isle of Muck. Birds sighted included Common Murres, Gannets, Greater and Lesser Black-Backed Gulls and Manx Shearwaters, and a Gray Heron.

While our captain, Glen, and First Mate Steve attempted a diagnosis of our windlass malfunction, we Volunteers went for a walk on the Isle of Muck.  We walked for about 40 minutes to the south side of the island and then returned.  By that time,

Captain Glen gathered us together for delivery of the BAD NEWS.  The windlass was unrepairable.  For the rest of the trip we will spend the night either at a mooring ball or at a pier, and we will have to alter our itinerary accordingly.   The Volunteers received this news with grace and equanimity.

Following a delectable dinner of West 38^th Street pasta, prepared by Carrie and Robin, the crew and volunteers gathered for light conversation.

Susan

Volunteer

# posted by HWDT @ 9:59 AM