Report from Voyage Camp

On April 14th, our first group of kids returned, tired and proud, from Voyage Camp, Call of the Sea’s newest program aboard Schooner Seaward.  Modeled on our challenging Voyage Seaward, but designed for students 13 to 16 years old, this 3-day, 2-night voyage offers the experiences and challenges of a schooner adventure within the protected waters of greater San Francisco Bay.  The voyage began by sailing up San Pablo Bay and through Carquinez Strait to the Mothball Fleet of retired naval vessels.  The second day’s sail focused on building sailing skills and teamwork.  The final day was a challenge as the students planned and executed a circumnavigation of Alcatraz, all under the watchful eyes of our captain and professional sailor-educators.

Was the program a success?  Ask Jill McCoy, the mother of one of the kids:  “It was one of the most amazing experiences of her life, and she loved it.  There were challenges—anchoring near the Mothball Fleet felt a little spooky, it was hard being waked in the night for Anchor Watch, and on the last day they sailed the boat around Alcatraz by themselves.  But when they returned home she was smiling ear-to-ear.  Walking down the dock my sense was that she felt empowered, that she was able to handle anything.”

Here is how her daughter, Annarose, expressed her feelings:

Canvas Clouds

Sails like canvas clouds
White puffy sun catchers, dreamcatchers,
and billowed wind catchers
Full of life and breath
Inspiration and celebration
Crystal clear creation

But far below is a being
A wild wooden creature
Graceful, easygoing,
and incredibly strong
Riding the wind like a bird
this is the Seaward
Powered by breeze
an inspiration to me

               -Annarose Leff

The next Voyage Camp dates are July 26-28, and a few spaces are still available.  The cost is just $350.

For the slightly older age group (14 to 19) our classic Voyage Seaward, scheduled for July 19-23, offers a longer voyage that includes the thrill and challenge of coastal sailing.  See http://www.callofthesea.org/voyage-seaward.php.