Landlubber teenager Michael Roberts has returned to Plymouth after going to sea aboard the 200-foot square-rig tall ship Prince William. Setting sail from Southampton, the winds took the Sail Training Association staff and crew to Waterford in Ireland.
| After breakfast it was time for happy hour, where everyone had to clean everywhere on the ship. |
Michael, 16, said "Overall it was fantastic experience and I succeeded in learning the skills of leadership, confidence, trust and teamwork."
Here he lets us look at his journal of the trip.
Day One
On arrival day, the sun was shining brightly as everyone staggered on board with their bags, looking a bit worried before meeting the permanent and volunteer crew to be told which watch they were on. I was really nervous and excited.
Day Two
Today we set off for parts unknown. We set the sails and everybody had to pull the ropes as hard as they could.
Today I feel seasick. I tell my watch leader I am sick and I rest in bed. But I'm not sick. A miracle. In fact I wasn't sick for the whole week.
Day Three
The weather is behaving in its usual unpredictable way and we have a glorious sunny day with no wind. The captain announces that we are heading for Land's End and see what the weather does, then we'll decide where we are going.
Day Four
Today we ported at Waterford in Ireland. I put myself forward to climb up the Fore Mast. There was praise from the chief officer after a great job of cleaning. I am really getting used to this experience.
Day Five
After breakfast it was time for happy hour, where everyone had to clean everywhere on the ship. I felt tired but also happy as it has been a hard week.
Day Six
I lean over the side to look at the horizon, and two dolphins appear.
Day Seven
The captain asked some people to climb up the top of all the masts to sing. It was too frightening to climb near the top.
About the team
This journal was written by Michael Roberts, 16. A version of this article was published in the Plymouth Evening Herald.
