YTH 2401 Ra Tauono – Day Six

It was a brisk morning with a chill in the air, making our morning swim a little more exciting. Into our morning chores we go, shining the brass and scrubbing the deck. Our skipper was on breakfast this morning, fluffy pancakes on the BBQ. After our morning routine it was time to take over the ship and elect a new skipper, first mate, sail station leaders and crew. Lessons about navigation, passage planning, cardinal markers, weather and tides were given in preparation for our successful takeover. “ All hands on deck! Haul away the anchor, raise the mainsail” Captain Lola orders. “ You heard the captain! Get to your stations!” First Mate Hace yells as the crew scatter for lines to haul. We sail until sunset to our night anchorage in Te Hue Bay. “ Strike all sails, let go the anchor “. Everyone’s put to work until the ship is ship shape. We are now waiting for our dinner, roast pork and vegetables, a fitting last night meal together. For our last night we will be on deck snug in our blankets, telling stories and sharing moments under the stars. We have made strong bonds throughout our adventure and look forward to seeing our friends and family back home. This will be our last post for 2401. See you all tomorrow whānau. Pō marie – 2401 Out!

R Tucker Thompson