10/09/2008
The first night onboard was fantastic! We fell asleep quickly, surrounded by the silent hum of the sea:) It is marvellous to sleep at the Indian Ocean! We slept and slept and slept :) Natasza was first to get up, then me, and, eventually, Eliza:) We ate a true sailor breakfast, that is: scrambled eggs, bread, ham, cheese and tea. Everything was prepared by Eliza:) Afterwards, we took a pontoon with an engine and went ashore (the yacht was anchored some distance from the shore for it is too shallow there to come closer). If only you could see these sights – like on a postcard! On the island, apart from the phone, there is also a hammock, which is a very comfortable place to rest :) There is a small shelter which provides protection against the wind, rain and sun. But its most important feature are its base pillars and ceiling which are all covered with various items left by passing sailors. It is a very smart thing. We decided to leave our own unique item, something that will mark our presence there. We found a white board and red paint on the deck. Half of the board was soon covered with the red paint, of course, and a Polish national flag was ready. We also stuck silver and golden coins, which we had from Cracow (hand-made by a gentleman in front of St. Mary’s Basilica) onto it. Another thing we want to leave there is a stone with the picture of Maya the Bee with number 244, which we also took from Cracow. We will write a memo explaining where it comes from, and the date. Natasza will throw the second stone into the Indian Ocean four days after she departs Cocos Islands. Then, she will give me the coordinates of its location.
In the afternoon, we went to sail a bit farther from the island. We have encountered swells, and the waves rocked the yacht. I was very curious if I would get seasick :) I felt as if everything inside of me comes up to my throat with every wave peak, and then goes down. It was a very interesting feeling. I have seen the sunset on the open ocean and I am extremely happy about it. Nausea left me only when I was ashore, but I enjoyed our cruise a lot! I am under huge impression of Natasza. There are always so many things to do that it is virtually impossible to get some rest. And she handles everything by herself! We visited two gentlemen on their yacht for supper. It was very nice. We sung Polish songs and we ate delicious spaghetti. Now, we are back at Tanasza, getting ready for sleep.