October 16, 2000
Hello, Mr. Vogtman,
Here are some questions our 3rd period class would like answered.
- Is the boat okay during a storm or does it get
damaged?
- What do the European countries you have visited have
in common?
- Has anyone fallen overboard on the trip?
Thanks!
Ms. Lathroum's 3rd Period, Stevensville Middle School
Hello, Stevensville Middle!
During storms we have to change our tactics. If the storm is too
strong for us to sail, we will take the sails down and motor. If at all
possible, a small amount of sail area will be left up and we continue to
sail. Smaller storms that have winds of 25 or 30 knots may be just
right for us if the wind is coming from a favorable direction! This
boat flies with 25-knot winds! Most of the damage that occurs is due
to chafe, which is when two things rub against each other and wear out
over a period of time . We have special “chafe gear” that's used to
prevent this. When we have calm afternoons or evenings the crew will
repair whatever needs attention. The Captain is very prudent when making
decisions about how to sail in rough weather and never risks his boat or
crew needlessly.
Every European country we have visited has a coastline, which means that
they have shipping, seafaring occupations, and lots of seafood! There
are other similarities as well. Many of the people speak more than one
language, which comes in handy considering all of the neighboring
countries that are within a few hours drive or boat ride. Many of them
also belong to the ECU, which means that soon they'll have one common
currency that will be accepted from country to country. This will make
travel and commerce much easier.
Nobody has fallen overboard during the trip. That's one of the most
serious accidents that can happen, which is why we always know where our
"watch mates" are at any given moment – especially on the night
watches. If somebody goes below they must tell the watch officer so we
don't think they've fallen overboard.
Your Teacher Aboard,
Lee Vogtman
