Landmark College on Denis Sullivan

St. Croix, USVI

Ship’s Logs written by AmeriCorps Deckhand Educator Jess Doherty

January 24, 2023

We recently had a class from Landmark College in Vermont onboard for an overnight program. The class they were taking was about humans and the environment, thinking about how the two interact. They introduced us to the Blue Mind Theory which says spending time around or in water can make you happier, healthier, and increase connection. Spending three nights on the ship, surrounded by water, was the perfect way for them to experience this first hand.

On Monday we went sailing where they learned about seamanship and stood active watch.

When we returned to the mooring for the evening we held a swim call. Allowing the students to splash around in the water and wash off the day's sweat. After a yummy dinner and chores the crew set up the projector for a movie night on deck.

It was amazing to watch the students grow as the days went on. They were thorough and efficient when it came to daily chores, taking boat life in stride. On the evenings without structured activities the students sat on deck and stargazed before going to bed. Breathing in the salty air and enjoying the breeze after a hot day. While at the mooring students were woken up throughout the night to stand watch with the crew. Giving them the chance to use a hand bearing compass and conduct boat checks. Their engagement and enthusiasm made for a wonderful week and made me excited for our future overnight programs!

- Jess Doherty