It’s not uncommon for us (and other sailors) to be escorted by pods of dolphins. People who study marine life seem to have differing opinions why they do this. Some speculate they’re able to expend less energy by slipstreaming—i.e., they’re wanting to hitch a free ride. Others opine that dolphins are very curious animals: they simply want to check out any large floating projectile not found in nature, see who’s on it and what they’re doing. Whatever the reason, a dolphin escort is always a source of tremendous excitement for the crew. We’re advised not to feed dolphins day-old pizza or… well, anything at all. In fact, it’s illegal.
QBE July 2022 Expedition Update—We made it to Pornichet!
Everybody had a terrific time exploring the entire length of the Breton coast, learning a lot about gaff-rig sailing, and making great new friends. (Crew members also got their QBE t-shirts! LOL) More pics of the expedition later.
Now we spend a few days participating in a classic-boat regatta before welcoming our August crew and heading back to St-Malo.
QBE July 2022 Expedition update—Lorient, France
When in France, one should eat what the French eat—with perhaps some extra whipped cream. Here we are in Lorient today, chowing down on crêpes.
QBE July 2022 Expedition Update—Near Concarneau
Sunday, 17 July, headed east now. It’s hot, but the sun is shining and we have a strong breeze. We’ll take it! (We use our Zodiac to go ashore.)
QBE July 2022 Expedition—Orientation
Crew members learn sailing terminology, how to tie knots, and the basics of sailing.
Making final preparations for our July 2022 expedition!
QBE’s two mousses (apprentice deckhands), Jules and Mewen (below), tinkering with the bowsprit of one of our cutters.