Busted Myths

I want to dispel a few myths that seem to be circulating due to a number of comments put on my last blog by uninformed readers.

Blog readers seem to have the impression that Connie is doing all the work onboard Sage. Well known to everyone in all the anchorages Connie does handle anchoring duties. We are in the 1% bracket of yachts without an electric windlass. While many may think that sending Connie up to do the anchoring without an electric windlass is akin to abuse and slavery all I can say is that Connie remains in great shape. And besides that the technical knowledge behind running the engine, changing gears and reading the chart for a suitable anchoring spot requires hours of hard study and concentration.

Of course, once the anchor has been set, it is Connie’s duty to make sure the efforts of the helmsman in setting the anchor with the engine is complete. This involves diving down 3-8 metres to tug on the anchor on the sea bed.  Hence, suiting up for a deep dive in 3 metres of water with god knows what deep sea creatures around is Connie’s duty. Meanwhile on deck I always have my camera ready to record the event either be it a giant turtle careening down to the anchor or a great white sussing out the anchorage. Of course, I am always there to shout a warning despite Connie being under the surface completing her anchoring duties.

Making sure the ladder is down to allow Connie back on deck is my duty. It’s sometimes delayed by the kettle boiling indicating that the coffee is ready to pour so I make sure that Connie also has jumped over with some hull scrubbing tools to start cleaning the hull while I prepare the coffee. Oh yes, I forgot to mention Connie doesn’t drink coffee.

I could go on more about the divisions of work onboard a ship but for the time being I think I have said enough. However, if these myths persist I will have to, once again, respond.

Photo taken by the Admiral while the captain was grabbing a few moments of free time to catch up on needed rest