May 30, 2015

May 30, 2015

Night fall the morning before our arrival in New Bedford, MA the whole crew is on deck sputtering with puns and yokes as the bond of four people on a nine-day sea voyage solidifies. A unique way to form newfound friendships- enclosed spaces, wild sightings and fated by the raw elements. For much on the sojourn, we were the only humans within hundreds and hundreds of miles, hopefully we have done a fine job in representing humanity to the likes of the creatures and elements in the Atlantic, creating the likes of our own sort of community aboard a mass of canvas, fiber glass and teak.

During mid-watch, 10 pm to 2pm, Maravilha was surrounded by a large pod of dolphins- rambling and glimmering through the blackened ocean. It seemed as if they were escorting us into familiar waters, welcoming us back home. A US Naval Warship hailed all nearby vessels, warning them to stay 5,000 feet away. With chuckles, we refrained from replying that we were the US Naval Peace Ship, and if they came within 5,000 feet of us we would launch our kindness missiles.  The feeling arises as it does time and time again, with endless night hours of  great concentration on what might pass into your 360 degree orb of ocean- you begin to see things, things that are not really there. Imagination expands and extrapolates- bioluminescence begins to look like people holding flashlights, the darkened waters and cloud seem to be emulating the outline of a ships… Do you see that there- that sea-nymph maid of the mer? I now understand how the great mystical tales of the sea and its' fantastic creatures have come about. What long days of salt and sea does to you…

The pure thrill at the notion of getting the first glimpse of the islands as we near the home port was interrupted by the thick mist of fog that settled. Eyes were peeled for navigational lights, darkened silhouettes appearing through the fog. The  great mist prevailed, night into day-and we saw not a speck of green earth until the very last moments, entering the harbor with our caravan of good friends and family, coming out into the fog to welcome us home. Once fastened to the dock, the crew was crowned with vines and flowers, medals of starfish and sprayed with sweet champagne.  Reeling with joy at the lovely crowd gathered to welcome us, the prospect of digging our toes into solid ground, we celebrated the great victory.

Bravo- Maravilha completes the last 1,500 mile leg, as well as completing the full 9,000 mile trans-Atlantic cruise. Nine crew members enjoyed different parts of the trip, some staying on for multiple legs, and the Captain remained. With immense gratitude for the safety and success of the entire cruise, we thank all of those- and there were many- who helped in making this trip come to life.  

And so the story goes- Maravilha returns to the simple joys of Buzzards Bay, captain and crew to their respective lives- stories in hand, sea in heart.  

A toast to the Atlantic!

MEP