The Merchant Marine Express

We’ve been underway since 6pm last night. Both Third Mate, Travis, and myself Are alternating 6-Hour Watches as 2nd Mate Gary is assisting on deck during the hours of 0800- 1600. I am standing the 0600-1200 hour and 1800-2400 hour Watch, respectively. The AB’s on watch are a bit confused as to whom to wake up, and at what time, since this watch rotation isn’t normal. I was accidentally woken by telephone at 2320 hours last night as the AB rang my room instead of Travis’. I was not happy, to say the least!

Anyway,once we reach the “South West Pass” enroute to the Dock in New Orleans, our transit up the Mississippi River will take approximately twelve hours under pilotage. Our ultimate destination will be along the West Bank in a region known as “Algiers”! I would never have imagined I would be visiting a town named the same as my birthplace. Albiet a few thousand miles difference, both towns are close to a major port. I’ll try to venture out and see if anyone speaks a word of French.

We continue as nice clear skies and beautiful stars at night make for uneventful motoring; the crew along with the Chief Mate Mike and Gary continue to clean cargo tanks in preparation for ship inspection and on going maintenance during our “lay period”. We are also anticipating a Coast Guard Inspection in order to renew our Certificate of Inspection (COI)which is due every two years.

Nothing seems certain for us, regarding cargo orders. Both the Captain and Chief Engineer will be relieved by their respective counter parts within the next week as Captain Schurman will be returning.

All of the crewmembers are following the political mayhem through CNN or Headline News and talk of what has occurred is a popular discussion at meals.

Have a great day!

Tags: Chemical Explorer