At 0500 we're anchored off Bens Point at Orient Beach in Gardiners Bay, Long Island with the first group from Greenport. Anchor watch woke the ship's company of 34 persons at 0600 and we saw the bright sunrise in the cool clear sky. The Mainsail remained still set from the day before. We ate breakfast in shifts below and completed morning chores.

After meeting on the quarterdeck, we got underway and set a course back to Greenport. We sailed 37 NM yesterday, to Conneticut and back. Now it is time to return to life ashore. We arrive at Claudio's dock at 0900, and all participants depart the schooner.

The crew remained busy preparing bunks and the rig for the second trip which begins at 1600. Before lunch, the Bosun painted the fore spreaders, repaired and painted the hull, and adjusted the mainsail robands. Other crewmembers exchanged linens, cleaned the science gear, and engaged visitors on the dock. Some time off is allowed, and a couple sailors grab a shower at Claudios; (thnaks, Claudios!) others found ice cream ashore. At 1530, all hands are ready to greet the next group of students.

Teacher Paul Davis, and 20 others join us. After a safety briefing, and introductions, we sail away in the NW breeze. Once again we are in Gardiners Bay, and  look for an anchorage for the night. The weather remains cool and clear with a high pressure system overhead. The breeze will remain northerly overnight so, just as we did the night before, we find a lee off Orient Beach. All hands sail onto the hook at 1815, and after striking sail, we enjoy a supper of big burritos (make your own). Evening program is history of the Morrissey/Ernestina, with photos, and readings.   Another clear night for stargazing, and solitude on anchor watch.   We plan to get underway early.

Here's an email from Caroline:
Hey! I'm Caroline I was on the Ernestina on Monday! I really liked it, it was great! I loved the work and when i got to climb, but i got scared cause i had to fold the sail, and we were going really fast. Hi Willie, sorry about not catching any fish? Hi Erica, Steve, Katie, Laurie, and the rest of you. How are you, and Laurie, your food is great!! Well i'll try to talk to you later bye for now...

Captain: Willi Bank
Program: Coordinator: Crista Mellican