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This summer marked our second Summer at Sea program following last year’s successful pilot program. Girls from eight schools in the Bay Area met at the Sea Scout base in Aquatic Park ready and excited to build a new community and have adventures.
The program focused on gaining knowledge in oceanography and leadership while building physical strength. Christine Whitcraft led the girls through an in-depth study of the multiple habitats in the San Francisco Bay. They explored tide pools, wetlands, and learned about the ocean from the deep sea to the shallow mud flats. In addition, they learned to use scientific tolls and critical observation skills. Along with oceanography, I worked with the girls on Leadership skills including use of personal power, teambuilding, and consensus building. Equipped with leadership and oceanography knowledge, plus Vincent Chandler’s fantastic communication instruction, the girls boarded Seaward on July 7 th ready for their voyage!
The students adapted quickly to life at sea. In two watch groups, the girls worked with the crew to learn their lines, navigation, and how to care for Seaward. During shipboard classes they collected data from the North, Central, and South Bay as well as the delta and the open ocean. The girls were able to adapt so quickly to this routine because of the wonderful support they gave each other. They helped each other study, keep positive attitudes, learn their knots, and always have fun. At any given time laughter could be heard throughout Seaward. When times were difficult for one girl, at least two would be by her side to listen and provide strength to meet the challenge. We completed the voyage with a Three Bridge Challenge during which the girls took command of the voyage plan, watch schedule, and sailing of the ship between the Golden Gate, Richmond/San Rafael and Bay Bridges. Because of their diligent planning and hard work, they successfully completed the challenge before returning to the dock in Sausalito.
On the morning of July 23 rd, we woke up bright and early to our first sunny day in ages. It was the perfect day to pick up passengers at Pier 9 to join Seaward as a participant in the Parade of Sail, the opening ceremony for this year’s Festival of Sail. The girls worked the sails, spoke with passengers about the program, and admired the beautiful ships that surrounded us. We continued to volunteer at the Festival by running a booth, and supporting ships and other maritime organizations. We completed the program feeling accomplished, proud, and strong.
We have already begun thinking about next summer’s program which will again be open to rising 11 th and 12 th grade girls, along with recent graduates. Check back to our website in January when we will post more information and applications!
Molly Simmons, Program Director
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