Tall Ships Blog 2017 : No. 9

Today was our last day on the ship, although it doesn’t feel like we’ve been here for a week – the days have flown by!

We got up early, packed before breakfast, which was at half seven. After this, we did our various chores around the ship; cleaning the dorms, helping in the galley & washing down the decks before we left. However, it ways soon time to leave. We reluctantly said goodbye to the rest of the crew, promising that we would be back again soon!

We then began our long journey back up to Merseyside. Although we we’re both sad to be leaving the Stavros, we were excited to return home to see our friends and families. However, there was one unexpected consequence of leaving the ship – we had lost our land legs! It still feels strange to be walking on solid ground, but I’ll be glad of my bed when I get home later though as I don’t think I’ve ever felt so tired in my life!

But, one thing I know for sure is that I’ll never forget the Stavros. I’ve met some amazing people, made new friends and overcome challenges I never imagined I ever could. All in all, my voyage on the Stavros has been the trip of a lifetime, and I hope I can sail on her again. I am also extremely thankful for the brilliant crew of the Stavros who helped me throughout my voyage, the other voyage crew who never failed to make me laugh, but also the Deep Sea Scouts for giving me this extraodinary opportunity.

Emma

Today was a sad day as I had to leave the ship. After breakfast we cleaned the accommodation ready for the next group of people who would board the ship. We said our goodbyes and, as usual, I cried. I loved every second of being on there. Driving home, it took us about 2 hours to tell Emma’s dad as much as we could remember about what happened that week. I realised some things as well whilst on that ship:

• Nothing is worth panicking over because it will be okay in the end;
• I can do a lot more than I think I’m capable of;
• Our abilities as people should never define us, but how we treat and interact with other people is so important;
• I need to stop saying ‘I can’t’ and start saying ‘I can’ more;
• Nothing is impossible;
• I am capable of being independent (and I realised that I definitely want to live away for uni).

Honestly, I was the happiest I’ve ever been on that ship. And I’ve been able to gain access to other sailing opportunities because of it. It was the best week of my life!

This isn’t goodbye Stavros S Niarchos, this is see you later.

Signing off,
Bex