Log: 24/11

We eventually departed Auckland after spending Saturday night at the wharf. Swimming early at Mechanics Bay, then sailing north all day in a pleasant breeze, we have anchored off a sandy beach on the north coast of Tawharanui peninsular. The trainees have enjoyed the day sailing and have settled into ship life really well.

Log: 26/11

After beach games ashore, where the rafts were a wet challenge in the gentle surf, we sailed north and are anchored for the night beside Goat Island just north of Cape Rodney.

Log: 27/11

The trainees went snorkelling this morning to see the great variety of fish and sealife in the marine reserve at Goat Island. We sailed across to Mokohinau Islands (north of Gt Barrier) and have anchored here for the night.

Log: 27/11

This morning the trainees paddled ashore at the landing on Burgess Island and walked to the lighthouse. They cleaned up the beach before paddling along the coastline and through the caves. With little wind, we stopped the ship in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf for a swim. Half an hour later we stopped again to let a large group of pilot whales and dolphins swim close past the ship. We are now anchored near Port Fitzroy for the night.

Log: 29/11

Spent yesterday at Port Fitzroy. A long walk ashore including Glenfern sanctuary and the waterfall. Back on board the the trainees had great fun on the yard-swing. Today they are going sailing in the luggers (small boats) and climbing to the highest point at the masthead. Progress is slightly delayed by marine life swimming round the ship a metre or two away.

Log: 31/11

After a BBQ ashore last night, we headed to Te Kouma, a sheltered harbour near Coromandel. A longed-for breeze arrived and we sailed in absolute silence (including trainees who were permitted to read or write but not talk) at 7 knots along the Coromandel coast.

Log: 3/12

The trainees elected a great crew and took over the ship yesterday at 4 pm. This morning they set sail from Rotoroa Island early and spent most of the day sailing and motoring north of Waiheke Is to arrive at Motuihe Is in time for a swim and waterslide from the ship. They were again plagued by very light winds but worked well together to hand back the ship on time. A very good voyage.