Due to some slightly adverse weather conditions the trip didn't get off to quite the brochure experience I had expected and led me to write this short description on the first night.
'I cannot sleep...
I'm laying here whilst the very walls that protect me are moving, the mast is creaking and outside, above and around me unknown parts and pieces on the boat clatter and slam.
The wind howls through the narrow corridors of the boat as the rain pelts the already swimming deck above and the water is forced to drain from the wide, flat "aircraft lander" above me, running down unknown tunnels to exit into the night.
As what I hope is the worst of the storm wakes me from a dream about strange nightclubs and friends as rockstars I hear other passengers whimper and stir likewise all over the vessel and perhaps even the faintest whisper of "I'm scared".
However, strangely I'm not worried. Sleeping in the belly of this large metal beast adds comfort that the very storm that woke me, cannot conquer mans creation. Through years of engineering and experience in tropical conditions probably much worse that this, the knowledge gained has allowed for this impressive carrier to withstand anything mother nature can throw at us.... Well maybe not anything!
Yet today when the wind hammered against the sail and the very surface I stood on tilted to an almost vertical position, I contemplated what I would do if the boat did actually turn over.
I'm a tourist and a backpacker, not a hardened sailor by any stretch. Before now I'd never been in a boat any bigger than a canoe.
In a matter of seconds I went from being a confident English traveller who's charismatic, boyish behavior would have me stand out on a boat of equally as bold like-minded people, to a collective of individuals in awe of the weather and with a new found respect for life.
As I attempt to let the swell of the sea rock me back sleep I know that this truly has been an experience worth sharing!'
The entire trip wasn't as dramatic as previously depicted, as the weather cleared up and everyone had an awesome time!
Big thanks to Pirate Pete and the whole crew for making the trip what it was, and if you get a chance definitely sign up for a short voyage on The Matador because it's worth every penny... Or should I say Cent!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Location:Grafton St,Cairns,Australia