A Fall Afternoon on the Bay
Last Thursday we needed one more chaperone, so I jumped in line with a 4th grade class from King City and headed to L Dock. Once on the boat, we sat at the front listening to Katie’s instructions and then she announced,” Ok! You can all crawl out on to the net.”
Immediately students grouped up. Some laid on top of each other. Others looked forward as we motored into the bay and still others quietly took in all the sounds and smells while watching the passing clouds in the sky. But I noticed a few looked hesitant, so I piped up, “The net can hold your school bus!”
They smiled and joined me as we scooted forward onto the net together. They peered down at the grey green water.
Soon after, I rotated to the back of the boat with the “Harbor Seal” group.
“Captain Bre? Can we drive the boat?”
“Yes, come on over!”
With encouragement from the crew, every student took the wheel as we documented the day. Would their parents believe they drove a 65 foot catamaran on the Monterey Bay without proof? Not sure, but we had that covered.
During the 1.5 hour experience we learned about magnetoreception, identified a half dozen animal species, drove a catamaran and raised a 600lb sail!
For every student I spoke with, it was a first time on a boat on the ocean.
These moments of profound learning and of courage to try new things are the heart of our mission
As we continue into our 30th year we still need your help financially. We still need you as our champions. We still need your support to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
Today is the best time to make a sustaining monthly donation! If today is not the day, consider donating during Monterey Gives on November 13th!
With appreciation,
Liz Murphy
Volunteer Coordinator
