Greetings from Belfast Harbor,

After a great sail back from Lunenburg, we sat cozily at our common anchorage off of Pond Island just south of Head of Cape on Cape Rosier. We arrived at 0000 7/7 and enjoyed a serene night as Bowdoin gently swayed at anchor. Except for 1 hour anchor watches, the crew could enjoy a solid night’s sleep. As all ashore try to escape the oppressive humidity and heat, we at sea are bundled up like on a cool fall day. This can make for a seemingly long watch as you are mostly standing in one place, either posted to the lookout or standing at the helm. However, that all changed once we were north of Seal Island, just offshore south of the Pen Bay approach, when the 18 knots of wind came to an instant halt and the heat hit like an invisible blanket. As said, the body is constantly adjusting and a normal night’s sleep can seem few and far between.

But now in Belfast, alongside a dock before tonight’s last night at anchor, we prepare Bowdoin for her annual USCG COI (United States Coast Guard, Certificate of inspection). This is when the Coast Guard visits the ship annually to make sure all is up to code and in Bristol fashion. This can include putting the crew through emergency drills, checking mechanical and steering, safety equipment, and general knowledge of procedures. I like to think of it as the final exam for our student crew. A good experience as they will deal with these inspections throughout their professional careers.

This will most likely be the last entry before our voyage together comes to an end tomorrow at 1200ET in Castine. It has been a privilege sailing with these young aspiring mariners and seeing the tremendous amount of personal and professional growth in such a short time. We have covered over 1000nm together and overcome the challenges of keeping this wonderful schooner Bowdoin operational and at sea. Take a minute to notice if they have a different demeanor or hold their head a bit higher with confidence.

Over and out, Sincerely,
Captain Peacock

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