The chart image to the right shows the track of the ship for the sail today.

To the Ernestina and her crew,

As we approached the New Beford harbor our eyes were set upon the ship we were about to embark on. Even with her sails down it was a sight to behold.

Lessons from the past days were actually going to be used on the vessel. Not only were we going to have the experience of sailing we would also be educated about the boat and how it operates at the same time.

As we all hauled up the sails we noticed how much force it actually took to lift the sail. We all learned what types of qualities were needed to run the ship correctly; these qualities were visible all day throughout the crew members.

Information was given to our watch in the rotations we attended. This included understanding mechanical objects aboard (levers and pulleys), navigational skills, discovering and examining organisms, observing the ship's surroundings (air temp.,wind speed and direction, water temp., etc.), and my favorite learning about the Ernestina's unique history.

As we left the Ernestina, their was a new appreciation for the ship and its crew. I would truly like the thank the crew aboard the Ernestina for granting us the pleasure of sailing with them, their patience, and most of all their knowledge. Thank You again.

Respectfully yours,
Nichole Sousa

Captain: Amanda Madeira
Program Coordinator: Crista Mellican