To begin with, we started by splitting into two watches and two watch leaders guided us around the deck and below deck. They explained all the safety rules and how to get around. Afterwards, we all sat in the cockpit and introduced ourselves whilst getting our gear fitted (life jacket and oilskins).

As we set sail, we were quickly put to work to remove the fenders and coiled the ropes and placed them in the sail locker. Afterwards, we were taught how to use the winches safely and each took part using them. Following that, we were all divided into separate jobs to put up the Staysail, preparing us for the sails we will put up the following day. Finally, as we came to shore at Cowes harbour, we were all given more jobs to help dock the yacht.

In the evening, we were given the task of cooking Spaghetti Bolognese for all 13 of us. With Paul’s help we successfully used the resources in the gally to produce a tasty meal for everyone. The second watch cleaned up whilst we showered in the marina facilities. Finally, we debriefed for the next day and got to bed.​

Cowes to Poole

As we woke up, we began with one group preparing the breakfast which was omelettes and cereal. Then whilst the opposite group washed up the dirty dishes, we had to go onto deck and prepare the boat for when we were going to set sail.

Before we set sail we walked through and completed some man overboard drills which included having a pretend rescuer and person who needed rescuing.   As we began to set sail, we were immediately given jobs which enabled us to leave the harbour , this included pulling up the fenders etc. as we began to set sail we had the job of putting up the main sail and the staysail similar to the previous day. About halfway through the sail we completed spinnaker pole climbing where we had to climb a rope which hung from a spinnaker pole suspended in the air with harnesses and safety equipment . After we had completed this we finally docked at the harbour in  Poole.

After we finished sailing and were docked up, we had the job of clearing the boat of all the lines and covers that we had used throughout the day. Instead of cooking like the previous night, we bought some fish and chips. Then one group cleaned up whilst the other went and showered then the other group had to go and showered before then relaxing and winding down then going to bed.

As we woke up, we prepared cereal for the group as the other watch started preparing the boat for the journey ahead. Because the weather was windy and dangerous to sail in, we got 45 minutes of shore leave in groups to explore Poole. When we returned, we swiftly departed for the long journey to Yarmouth.

About an hour into the trip, we raised the Yankee sail which required a great deal of teamwork from the helm, cockpit, snakepit, foredeck and bow. Later into the journey, we practiced the steps if someone goes overboard. We were briefed and then threw a fender overboard to simulate a realistic scenario. We then worked together to get a rescue swimmer overboard to lift the fender out of the water.

After docking, we got shore leave again to go to the park and play together for an hour.  When we got back, one watch prepared sausages and mash for everyone whilst the other group had a navigation lesson with the skipper and then the crewmates showered. Then, as the other watch cleaned up, we showered and got ready for bed. Finally, we debriefed for the next day and went to bed.

Yaakov & Isla​