Log: 8/5

Morena Whanau.
Our trip has kicked off to a great start, the team are settling in well making friends and sharing stories. Yesterday was all about learning to sail so we set off from Motu Ihe with a small amount of sail and cruised gently up to Tiritirimatangi for our second night. Today the plan is sailing to Kawau Island where we're hoping to get ashore for some games and a run around.

Log: 9/5

We had a cruisy sail yesterday up to out anchorage in Kawau. Despite the wind and rain on arrival, the trainees were keen for some time on the land so they rowed to Mansion House Bay for some games. The evening was spent warming up below deck with the watches competing in some eggcelent stories and song. This morning we are tucked up in our sheltered and safe anchorage in Kawau until the strong weather rolls through. Later on, we will be setting sail for a longer trip out to some sheltered water by Great Barrier Island. The trainees are full of energy, up on deck in their oranges and are excited for the passage, they will be keeping their eyes peeled for ocean-life along the way.

Log: 12/5

Two big days hanging out in the beautiful playground of Great Barrier Island. Yesterday our trainees headed off exploring coves in our small sailing boats and had a go climbing to the top of the mast. The evening was spent on land around a campfire. Today the trainees stretched their legs and headed up around the hills for a tramp. Still they have energy! Topped up by banoffee pie. We will sleep well tonight.

Log: 14/5

Yesterday morning the team started the day with jumping off a cliff into the sea - it took a bit of bravery. Then we sailed back from Aotea in a light sou'easter. On the way we set heaps of sails making the ship look badass! We also made a detour to watch some marine mammals before coming back to anchor in Kawau Bay late last night. Today was all about honing our sailing skills before holding an election for our trainee day. The trainees have now taken over and are planning an epic day tomorrow.

Log: 14/5

Hi team, trainee day has arrived. Trainee day means that our crew roles have been made up from trainees, this includes the captain, cooks, engineers, first and second mates and four watch leaders. The regular crew sit back and the Traniees run all ship operations until 4pm. This morning we had our last morning swim which was bittersweet. Today the plan from the elected crew is to sail from Mahurangi Harbour all the way down into Motuihe Island and if the weather allows, set up for a pool party for trainee Stella's 17th birthday.