Monday, September 12, 2016

Oliver Hazard Perry Trip - Day 2

We woke up to a beautiful morning on City Pier in New London. After breakfast, we departed and steamed down river. We quickly pulled in and set anchor toward the mouth of the Thames River. From there the students did a series of training exercises, which included learning to sail, climbing the rigging, sail handling and most importantly how to handle the myriad of lines to set, douse and trim the sails. After lunch we pulled up anchor and headed into the south wind toward The Race. As we approached The Race, we turned back toward Fishers Island Sound and set sail. The kids did a fabulous job setting and triming seven sails. We had a peaceful sail to and through Fishers Island Sound before turning north toward Stonington harbor. The kids doused all the sails, coiled all the lines and cleaned up in time for an amazing swim before dinner. They had a blast jumping from the rather high deck. Dinner was amazing and the cook noted that they ate a lot more tonight then last night, indicating a hard days work. After dinner there were some group bonding activities, then yoga, a movie, time on deck under the stars and finally some games. The students should sleep well tonight. 
 
 

Sunday, September 11, 2016

Oliver Hazard Perry Trip - Day 1

The OHP arrived in New London today. We boarded, ate a fine meal, met the crew and went through a series of safety trainings. 22:00 is lights out. Big day tomorrow.