We
got a chance to stretch our legs today on the Isles of Shoals,
as the students and some crew went ashore on Appledore Island.
The Ernestina students were reunited with their classmates
from the Spirit of Massachusetts, and we all had a great time
exploring these rugged and beautiful shores.
We were
fortunate to run into an ornithologist from the bird-banding
society on Appledore, and he gave us an impromptu lecture
about the excellent habitat that the islands provide for
hundreds of species of migrating birds. After getting
ferried back to our boats, the captains opened the
swimming pool, and we all jumped into the chilly water for our
first swim since we got on board: what a relief! Soon
after, both schooners sailed off their anchors and made way
for Cape Ann.
The breeze
really filled in and we had superb sailing for the entire
afternoon. The students learned some more intensive coastal
navigation and knot tying skills, and we sailed on into
the night. Just another day in the life for
Ernestina, but a day to remember forever for these new sailors
from Green Farms Academy.
Program Coordinator:
Patrick Merrill
Captain: Willi Bank
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