The Merchant Marine Express

We’ve encountered a delayed sailing leaving out of Lake Charles, Louisiana, but we managed to depart by noontime.

Rain had caused somewhat of a problem during the evening while loading cargo. We had to constantly monitor the puddling of water and pump all rain water, which accumulated on decks, into our reserve or “slop” tanks. Our decks are sealed with “scupper plugs” which cap any liquid on deck, thereby containing anything if a tank were to overflow or leak by, including rain water.

The Able Seamen on watch each take turns monitoring an auxiliary pump back aft as the pooling rain water levels peak and a quick flick of a lever starts this pneumatic pump as the rain water is sent into these tanks for storage. As well, each of the guys don an orange colored rain suit resembling some large monster, lumbering around seeking anything or anybody to prey upon. It’s a sight to see, if you’re on the bridge deck peering from above, as you bear witness to this scene. You could hardly detect the radio chatter coming from the handheld VHF as the combination of thick rubber and the resonance from the rain all while wearing these cumbersome, yet purposeful suits. The deck officers, including myself all complain of this nuisance as commands are constantly being repeated.

Third Mate, Travis, has begun to settle back into the swing of things as he just returned back from his vacation, a week ago. He seems full of renewed energy yet keeps his personal events secret as not much has been expressed about his adventures, while at home. All that has spoken have been questions posed by him about what has or hasn’t changed pertaining to procedures or events that are on his mind. A lot has happened during his three month rest period, but nonetheless, I was happy to update him with current shipboard events.

Second Mate, Wayne, however, seems adamant about keeping him informed on how he wants the bridge and various duties managed. I can see, though, how Wayne might be trying to figure Travis out, as the two have never worked together in the past. I do look up to the second mate as a big brother or uncle figure, really as I see this team working out eventually.

Have a good Sunday, folks!

Tags: Chemical Explorer