3 more sleeps til NFLD

We haven’t made it outside in the last two days, surprisingly, I’m not feeling stir crazy. The ship has its own rhythm and really does feel like a little world unto itself.

Really enjoying the art projects. Part of what I’ve been trying to do is help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere on the ship, while being respectful of the cultures and backgrounds connected to the different expeditions.

The first expedition on the Polar Athena, under SOI’s lease of the ship, is called Innu Nation. Some wise people have helped me understand what is appropriate and respectful. I’ve attached a clip of the front entrance, where I created “Welcome Aboard” signs in six languages: Innu, Inuit, English, French, Swedish, and Filipino/Tagalog.

I also made some artwork using an old frame and a set of ship signal flags. Tonight, the Captain came by with the International Code of Signals and spent time teaching me what all the flags mean and how they work so I can create a poster to go with the flags. (See picture)

We’ve had some 4.5 to 5 metre swells, which mostly means you sit, hang out, and let the ocean do what the ocean does. We’ve also been playing Euchre and Bananagrams, and there have been a lot of laughs.

🎤The biggest highlight of the last three days was probably a full “girl crew” (Filipino & Canadian) karaoke night, fuelled by boxed wine and absolutely no restraint. It was full throttle and an absolute riot.

We’ve also been spending a fair bit of time on the bridge (where ship is controlled), asking lots of questions of whoever is on shift, the Captain, Chief Officer, or Second Officer. Everyone has been generous with their time, and I’m learning a lot.

I’m definitely thinking of home, but I’m also loving this experience and trying to fully lean into it. I don’t think I’ll have another adventure quite like this one although, never say never!

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