Log Entry No 1 - 19th Sept 07. (Lanzarote)

FROM THE CAPTAINS CABIN

The mood on HMSTC Discoverer is buoyant and morale high as we prepare the boat for our transatlantic experience.

Andy Ferney going through the Safety Procedures with Cpl Smith looking on

After having a photograph taken with Major-General Graham in Upavon, the crew set off in high spirits for Lanzarote on Monday morning. Luckily a smooth morning in Upavon and a surprisingly empty M25 meant we were in Gatwick in plenty of time. After a fleeting sight of the crew from Leg 1 in the airport we were met at the airport by Captain Simon Finch and Andy Ferney the skipper. An excited crew were soon introduced to HMSTC Discoverer, their home for the Atlantic crossing before having a chance to eat and get some much needed rest.  Before going to bed the crew were split up into their two watches, Port and Starboard and informed of the rotation. 6 hrs on 6 hrs off during the day, 4 hours on, 4 hours off at night (Every other night they will work 2 x 4hr watches).

Cfn Dan Surtees, Pte Kris Bhudoye & Pte Jade Dunham-Molson

For the first couple of days Discoverer has been alongside in the lovely Marina Puerto Calero while the crew have been learning about every nook and cranny on the boat and various tasks completed. Bemused onlookers watched on as the crew of the Discoverer tried on their oilskins in the heat of the midday Canary sun. The water maker – converting sea water to drinkable water, has been changed; and this afternoon the boat in being ‘coded’ – an inspection to ensure it is fit to cross the Atlantic. As we cannot leave port until the boat has been ‘coded’, the crew has had the time to relax and yesterday afternoon enjoyed a warm dip in the sea and a competitive game of beach volleyball.  Since arriving the afterguard has been busy planning various entertainments for the crossing including the ancient ceremony of crossing the equator where the sailor is accepted into Neptune’s realm.  The Royal Navy spend a whole day over the momentous event, I don’t think we can stretch it out that long! In it most of the crew will turn from being ‘Pollywog’s’ to ‘Shellback’s’, at the moment only 1st Mate Danny holds Shellback status, even skipper Andy is a Pollywog.

This morning the familiarization training has continued and with the focus changing from the general workings of the boat to preparing it for departure. A planned afternoon sail has been put back because the inspector is arriving today rather than Thursday as previously planned. Preparation as ever is crucial but at times tedious but the crew are learning fast, enjoying working on the boat and are gelling very well as a team.

LT A J COLQUHOUN

'Disco' in Purto Calero

FROM THE CREWS BERTH

Signaller Chris Davies wrote on - Tues 18th September 2007

“Very anxious and nervous prior to arriving but after meeting the crew NCOs etc. a bit more relaxed as they are a great bunch and very friendly.  After arriving in Lanzarote and finally seeing the boat and meeting the skipper very excited and can’t wait to set sail… Second day got a full safety brief and tour of the yacht and learnt about all the different things we’ll be doing on a daily basis. Went to be beach for a good afternoon with the guys (and girl!), and went swimming and played some good volleyball.  All in all had a great time so far and can’t wait until tomorrow! Got a new nickname due to my agility in volleyball – Spider-Chris!”

Maj Simon Finch

Sapper Andrew Grieve wrote on Tues 18th September 2007

“Excited about being given such a excellent, once in a lifetime opportunity. At first I wasn’t sure about what to expect, as I’ve never done anything like this before. Once I met the other 7 crew I felt more comfortable because they’re a great bunch of people.  After we arrived at the boat in Lanzarote, I was amazed by the sight of the yacht and the marina where we are currently staying.  The next day the skipper explained what was expected of us and what is going to happen over the next few weeks. I am now even more excited, as I know these next few weeks are going to be memorable – especially crossing the equator and I am still finding it hard to believe that I am going to sail across the Atlantic and get paid to do it. Also, I am determined to not waste any time onboard, learn as much as I can and be an excellent ambassador for my regiment the RE and the Army