"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines.

Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." -Mark Twain

Living Fast & Loving It

>> Saturday, February 11, 2012

Our last morning, on February 3rd, in Trellis Bay started with a refreshing snorkel on the nearby reef. Despite the strong winds and choppy seas we were able to enjoy the diversity of the reef and I, personally, was thrilled to see a beautiful Acropora cervicornis (staghorn coral) colony. Following the excursion, it was again hands on the windlass, as we prepared to get underway to Statia (St. Eustatius). The Anegada passage was quite forgiving and we made it to our destination in under 36 hours.



In the waters of Statia, we got our first view of the textbook “volcanic islands”. We hiked the extinct “Quill” on Sunday and ate lunch in its crater after having dragged ourselves up and down the highest point on the island. The next day was filled with classes and walks through the historic town of Oranjestad. Evenings entailed refreshing swims prior to delicious meals and were usually followed by reading, music and relaxation.



We left Statia on the 7th of February, bound for Antigua. With the Eastern Trade winds and Northern Equatorial current against us we took 3 days to arrive at our destination. The length of our passage was valuable for making steady progress in the art of sailing and program academics. With our colors flying, we sailed into English Harbor, Antigua, tall and proud on the morning of February 10th.



Over the last two days we’ve learned about the history and culture of Antigua, hiked its impressive cliffs and swum its refreshing waters. The plan for the next few days is to give Gamage some tender loving care and if possible explore the local marine systems before getting underway to our next destination.



- MAHIMA JAINI


Marine Science Educator


Harvey Gamage

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