Then and now!

I was addressing a group of young hospitality professionals. The lecture began with how the Indian Hotel Industry was in the past, the current scenario and what could one expect in future. It was a pretty interactive session, much more than I expected it to be, overshooting the time! Let me not bore you with the lecture now.... Don't know why boring gets itself attached to the lectures in the first place. Lectures have been the medium of imparting knowledge from time immemorial and they'll continue to do so. They can be inexpensive and yet have the widest reach, making them being used so extensively. Before I miss it, let me share with you athat yours truly's blog has been nominated for the Indiblogger Award 2017. I never took blogging seriously so this is indeed a surprise. If you wish to leave a testimony on the nomination, will really appreciate it as my blog is all cos of your love.

Since this particular post is for the marine fraternity, I wanted to touch upon a few things of the past, some forgotten and some remembered fondly incidents and memories. My source of information has mostly been my own sailor. He has shared a lot about his work and social life, as I’d express interest in the stories of the sea and the sailors. I have a particular liking for the breed. I always referred to his team onboard as a brigade. I shall cover a few good old day memories here, as it is rightly said that the old is gold. Present is right on your faces and as far as the future is concerned who knows it better than you all!

I found the only thing connecting the past, present and future times for the sailors is the good old Biryani! So much has been spoken about the Sunday delicacy. No sailor needs any intro to the chicken Biryani. Some of them fast the previous day so that they can make the most of their date with the Biryani. Yesterday I received the Sign off calendar from my husband and the unit of calculation was Biryani. I know he wanted me to have a nice laugh and count the biryanis too. Unfortunately no matter how much I miss him I can't have biryani every Sunday!

People carry a lot of misconceptions about shippys or their profession. I remember when I told my colleagues and friends about me marrying a sailor. They instantly came up with the most common unwarranted comment, “A sailor has a wife at every port.” I would laugh it off as I understood what happened onboard and outside. Coming to my own experience, the fiancé didn’t even know how to ask me out forget taking me on a date. If he happened to be on the side of town where my office was he would pick me and drop me home, as if I was a highly perishable commodity that needed to be deposited home in the nick of time. This man can’t have a distant girlfriend forget a wife!

Let’s look at some other glorious things from the past, take it with a pinch of salt, all in good humour.

The haircut Saga

While onboard it became the moral responsibility of every cadet/ young officer to display his skill as a hair dresser. No matter whether he could handle a pair of scissors or not he had to do a good job with it; otherwise he'd be entrusted with others jobs too!

Mending Clothes

Women, read it as middle aged ladies; would visit ships at the port and do the mending job for clothes. A stitch here and tuck there or fixing that loose button. It was one opportunity to see the fairer sex around. No complaints but the ones who came giving their clothes would be dressed well and smelling a lot better than they would on other days. They would also get some tips from them, in true agony aunt formats. The ladies were good counsellors, apart from being experts in their profession, that of being a seamstress.

Mobile Phones with calling cards

Talking about days when there weren't hand phones in use. Sat phones were expensive, so the sailors looked forward to the girls who'd visit ship with mobile phones and calling cards. The crew onboard could call home from their cabins, which was a luxury. Even if one didn't intend calling home the pretty girl who came with the phone was the reason enough to make that one call. Need I add that the men dressed even better than they'd while giving their clothes for mending? Looking, feeling and smelling good, all in one; there was certain charm to it. A lot of made up stories that would be shared among the group and they'd remain the top talk till the next such visit onboard. Making the saying empty vessels make a lot of noise true. All jazz and hardly any truth in it.

Ship chandlers 

Ship chandlers, along with their lady colleagues would bring not only provisions but a lot of happiness for the crew onboard. Any opportunity to see a beautiful lady was never missed.

Captain

The captain was commanding the vessel in the real sense. He only had to order and all was done. He had a radio officer with him and also a purser. His job was planning the operations; execution was the duty of the Chief Officer and his team. The top two, Captain and the Chief Engineer were the top guys in the real sense, mostly sporting the royal beard as well.

Shore leaves

The crew looked forward to the shore leave, in those days they were quite common. All were happy to go out and spend some money. This was pre ISPS and 9/11. With the implementation of ISPS shore leaves are restricted to the extent that some are stopped altogether.

There was a certain charm that the shipping industry carried which has changed to some extent. There was luxury which is commonplace now. Captain's job profile has changed too, not just a commander any more but has to double up for a lot of other’s when there is a need; this today applies to all jobs. Ships have connectivity and everyone uses mobile phones. One is in touch with the outside world virtually and with family and friends over video calling. Only shows the industry has changed for good and has made life easier. But good old days do bring a smile on our faces as the new generation of mariners will never connect with some of the things of the past.

PS

If the sea mesmerizes you and you love the tales that it gives birth to, do follow my blogs on Cdr Abhilash Tomy, who is a Sailor par excellence. He is the first Indian, second Asian and 79^th person in the world to circumnavigate the earth in a sailboat unassisted and without any stops. You'll find an inspirational man who is taking on his passion for doing something extrordinary and full of raw adventure.

His fundraiser is slowly and steadily taking him towards his next endeavour. If you wish to support the fundraiser do click here, spread the word @Ketto fundraiser - 'Cdr Abhilash Tomy in the Golden Globe Race 2018'.

https://www.ketto.org/fundraiser/abhilashtomyGGR?utm_source=campaigner&utm_medium=fbautopost&utm_campaign=abhilashtomyGGR&utm_term=campaign_push&utm_content=254539&shby=1

Follow his page for all the excitement: 
https://www.facebook.com/abhilashtomysailing/
Website: 
http://www.abhilashtomy.com/

Pictures are taken from google with due credits

The Sailor and his boat that'll cross the globe

In my last post I wrote about Cdr. Abhilash Tomy and his upcoming project the Golden Globe Race 2018. In case you missed it and want to give it a glace, here you go!

https://laxmitodiwan.blogspot.in/2017/08/a-sailor-at-heart-and-explorer-in-soul.html

He sent me a picture of his boat. It did look magnificent but so small that it was difficult for me to even imagine that it could actually round the earth. I am aware that even the tiniest things can be pretty mighty and this boat, The Thuriya is certainly one. About his boat he said that he felt as if she was talking to him. Once you establish that kind of relationship you'll do all that it takes to be in it and cherish the beauty of that love. Bonds are not created just for nothing!

I am truly a supporter of anything that's not ordinary. The out of the box ideas energise me. Not that I am a gutsy woman who can do the tight rope walking. Things affect me so much so that I can't even drive on a busy road.... forget busy not even in the best of the roads to be precise!

I love to talk about positivity, optimism and the hunger to follow one's dreams. I believe that any dose of inspiration needs to be shared, you never know who gets motivated to pursue his own set of dreams taking a leaf out of that story. That makes me follow this journey upto the race with Tomy.

My liking for Anything but Ordinary, guess what? That's the brand promise of my organisation too. No wonder I love what I do! Coming to the point, I have been following Abhilash in his gutsy, adventurous to the extent of  near impossible actions but he achieves them no matter what. I've known him for long, since school days that makes a silver jubilee, nothing less. He always stood out doing something that no one would even imagine. He went on to become a Naval pilot, that again are in minority. The sailing bug bit him and how, leading him to circumnavigate the earth. Have been a distant spectator to all that. I'd drop a message once in a while if I read his interview or heard him commenting on something. Only telling him if he was out of his mind. That probably would be the outcome of most of our conversations.

He is preparing to be a part of the Golden Globe Race 2018, who wouldn't accept the prestigious invite? It's certainly an honour to be one of the 5 sailors chosen from around the world. Guess that'd be any sailor's dream. It's not that simple as the race will go back in time and good 50 years, thats's half a century! It requires meticulous planning and a whole lot of detailing. Can't afford to miss anything on the indent sheet. Above all it requires guts, that he has in abundance.

He sent me a video posted by The Week, saw it and as usual messaged, "OMG! why do you want to risk so much. You are an achiever and an inspiration, just chill and be happy." He replied, "I like the kick." May be that kick makes him who he is. I wish to share that video with you all, here.

I am sure you connected with Abhilash's take on the upcoming event. His fundraiser is slowly and steadily taking him towards that vision. If you wish to support the fundraiser do click here, spread the word @Ketto fundraiser - 'Cdr Abhilash Tomy in the Golden Globe Race 2018'.

https://www.ketto.org/fundraiser/abhilashtomyGGR?utm_source=campaigner&utm_medium=fbautopost&utm_campaign=abhilashtomyGGR&utm_term=campaign_push&utm_content=254539&shby=1

Follow his page for all the excitement: https://www.facebook.com/abhilashtomysailing/
Website:
http://www.abhilashtomy.com/

Pictures and video courtesy, Abhilash Tomy and The Week

A sailor at heart and an explorer in soul

This post is not about me but a sailor who can certainly be called 'great' as he has achieved something that no ordinary man or woman can. This is about Commandar Abhilash Tomy, KC an Indian Naval Officer. What makes him an achiever is that; he is the first Indian, second Asian, and seventy-ninth person to complete a solo, unassisted, non-stop circumnavigation (the action or process of sailing around the world) under sail.

It's about India’s greatest naval adventure.

The boat used for the project, Sagar Parikrama of the indian Navy was the Indian Navy Sailing Vessel INSV Mhadei, custom built by the Indian Navy. A man who covered about 40000 kms, sailing around the world, alone and without any help or stops. INSV Mhadei, went through some of the most terrible and lonely places on this planet encountering ferocious storms and raging seas. An adventure of this magnitude is so difficult that less than 100 people have ever successfully completed one. To compare, more than 5 times the number has gone to space and more than 5000 people have been on the Mt. Everest.

He set off on the historic voyage from the Gateway of India, Mumbai on 1st November 2012. Moving slowly and steadily on the route marked for him. If you can say marked, in the first place! Remember nothing is marked on the sea; one has to make it on his own but the route is more or less just a guideline.

He crossed, from West to East, the Indian, Pacific, Southern and Atlantic Oceans, covering 23,100 nautical miles, rounding Cape Leeuwin in Australia, Cape Horn in South America and Cape of Good Hope in Africa. The journey took 151 days and was completed on 31 March 2013.

Tomy was awarded the Kirti Chakra (second highest peacetime gallantry award in India) and the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award. He has spoken to students regarding the protection and conservation of the world's oceans. He has done TedX Videos, has numerous articles written about him and he has spoken on many different platforms with panache.

I was following his voyage closely just like millions of others from around the world through his blog and social media updates. He came out with a book, which was a pictorial representation of this feat, aptly titled 151.

The other day I received an invite from him, before the attachment could open I was smiling thinking that finally the man gets hooked! When I saw the invite it wasn't for his wedding but about the launch of another boat. The invite read,

Hi there,

You would have already read something about the Golden Globe Race 2018. 

Held for the first time in 1968, the race threw up the first person to circumnavigate the earth solo and non stop. Out of the nine entrants only one finished. 

The race is being repeated in 2018, with entrants requiring to use the same technology as 1968 participants, and I have a special invitation. I am building a replica of the Shuali which was the first to win this race.

The Thuriya will be launched on 7 August at Goa, and you are invited to the ceremony!

Please do confirm your presence.

I messaged him immediately, asking him if he had lost it. Why on earth would he want to do this again and this time being even more primitive, going back 50 years? To which his circumnavigation looked like a cake walk. He laughed it. I also told him that it'd cost a fortune, how was he going to manage the funds necessary for this voyage. 

Have learnt, from the history that the voyages were funded by the Kings and Queens. Thankful to them that the world is a smaller place today and there is so much travel and trade. Also the maritime industry is huge and touching almost everyone’s life. The Voyage of Vasco Da Gama was funded by the King of Portugal and that of Columbus was funded by the King of Spain.

I asked him if he had found the royalty that'd sponsor him. He said that he needed funds and in fair amounts. He had good chances of podium finish. Anything less than the funds he calculated might not be good enough but he'd still go. He was adamant not to approach any government bodies so relied on organisations to sponsor and general public to help generate funds. He said that he had fighting chances and any help would be good.

I guess we can be the royalty in our attitude and support this daredevil in his upcoming challenge. Commander Tomy, is one of India’s most prominent sailors and has been given one of five Special Invitations to join the Golden Globe Race.

A brief but jaw dropping history of the Golden Globe Race

The Sunday Times Golden Globe Race was a non-stop, single-handed, round-the-world yacht race, held in 1968–1969, and was the first round-the-world yacht race. It  was controversial due to the failure of most competitors to finish the race and because of the suicide of one entrant; however, it ultimately led to the founding of the BOC Challenge and Vendée Globe round-the-world races, both of which continue to be successful and popular.

The race was sponsored by the British Sunday Times. The Golden Globe trophy was offered to the first person to complete an unassisted, non-stop single-handed circumnavigation of the world via the great capes, and a separate £5,000 prize was offered for the fastest single-handed circumnavigation.

Nine sailors started the race; four retired before leaving the Atlantic Ocean. Of the five remaining, Chay Blyth, who had set off with absolutely no sailing experience, sailed past the Cape of Good Hope before retiring; Nigel Tetley sank with 1,100 nautical miles (2,000 km) to go while leading; Donald Crowhurst, who, in desperation, attempted to fake a round-the-world voyage to avoid financial ruin, began to show signs of mental illness, and then committed suicide; and Bernard Moitessier, who rejected the philosophy behind a commercialised competition, abandoned the race while in a strong position to win and kept sailing non-stop until he reached Tahiti after circling the globe one and a half times. 

Robin Knox-Johnston was the only entrant to complete the race, becoming the first person to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world. He was awarded both prizes, and later donated the £5,000 to a fund supporting Crowhurst's family.

To add to the dramatic history of the race, this I learnt from Tomy that all nine men were single except Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who had divorced his wife.  Figuratively speaking even he was single then. He was the only man who completed the Golden Globe Race, Guess what he did? He married the same lady he once divorced. Also Sir Knox- Johnston’s boat was built in Colaba, Mumbai, India.

Tomy is recreating what Sir Robin Knox-Johnston did in 1968, his boat The Thuriya is a replica of The Swahili used by Sir Knox- Johnston. Only thing not replicated is the divorce part as Tomy is all single! With his kind of madness and to keep doing something that is more challenging.  His aim is to get people to take yachting as a more serious sport. The Sea makes an individual understand the meaning of life and the realization that a little is certainly more! The only other person that I know who kept bettering himself was Sergei Bubka, the Russian pole vaulter who had no competition during his career.

I am sure Tomy will find sponsors; anyone of you reading this has a lead, would be really nice if it can reach our man.  Any organisation wants to sponsor the only Indian at the Golden Globe Race can certainly show their support and encouragement. 

All others who are reading this, now you can be a part of the race! Show your support on 

@Ketto fundraiser - 'Cdr Abhilash Tomy in the Golden Globe Race 2018'.

https://www.ketto.org/fundraiser/abhilashtomyGGR?utm_source=campaigner&utm_medium=fbautopost&utm_campaign=abhilashtomyGGR&utm_term=campaign_push&utm_content=254539&shby=1

Follow his page for all the excitement: https://www.facebook.com/abhilashtomysailing/
Website:

http://www.abhilashtomy.com/

Graduation day - An academic regalia

Graduation day is probably the most important day in the academic life of an individual. A momentous occasion for every college student, it also is the most memorable one. It is an achievement that comes from within that signifies maturity, the ability to cross multitudes of obstacles and reach a goal of unprecedented possibilities. They learn many new skills, gain knowledge and uncover new passions that they'd apply in the walks of their lives. Family, friends, colleagues and well wishers celebrate the big day and pay tribute to the hard work and efforts of the graduates.

As a professor at the institute, it is a part of my portfolio to be the Master of Ceremony for the event. I always take it as an honour. It is certainly a big day in the life of the graduating batch as well as for us at the institute. To me it is particularly very emotional. It is the time to bid farewell to a  batch of students who we have seen for 3 years, seen them as young girls and boys when they join us to turn into young ladies and gentlemen. The parents see the change and somewhere they give us the credit, but its always a team effort, as teachers we are their mentors, guides, facilitators of knowledge and we somewhere become their inspiration and role models. Oh my God!.... isn't that some responsibility we carry on our shoulders?

The event requires a lot of planning. It starts months in advance right from deciding on the venue, the invitees, the menu and a few rehearsals of the parade of the graduating batch in their robes. It makes such a spectacular sight, ... and an emotional one too.

Institute profile

The  Apeejay  Institute  of  Hospitality  located at CBD Belapur  shares its premises  with  The  Park  Navi  Mumbai. It is an initiative of the Apeejay Surrendra  Park  Hotels  that  operates its collection of  Luxury  Boutique hotels in India. The  institute  offers  a 3 years   Bachelor’s  Degree programme in Hospitality Studies (BSc-HS)affiliated to the University of Mumbai & YCMO University and  is recognized by the  University Grants Commission.AIH is also the center for learning of  Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels.The group's Management Training Programme, Professional Development programmes as well as consultancy projects for  the hospitality industry are some of its  additional core activities. Not  only  academics  but  extra curricular activities are also given equal impetus.  Students have  the  advantage  of  getting  hands-on operational training at The Park, Navi Mumbai, doing their industrial

training from any of the Park properties  or associated organizations and take up careers with the Park Hotels as well as other hotels.

The Ceremony

The 4^th batch graduated from the portals of the AIH on the 16^th of March 2013 in a spectacular ceremony held at the Park Navi Mumbai. The Chief Guest for the function was Ms. Priya Paul,Chairperson, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels. Also present was Mr. Lemuel Herbert, Associate Vice President and Area General manager, The Park Hotels. The invitees were parents of final year students, AIH alumni, Principals of Hotel Management colleges in Navi Mumbai and Mumbai, media, Hotel General Managers  and recruiters.

The function that started at 12 noon went a little over an hour.The Master of Ceremony welcomed all the guests and thanked everyone for joining AIH on their special day in celebrating the graduates. She also expressed her appreciation to all those who had supported them – parents, grandparents, siblings, relatives and close friends.

Principal Mr. GM Bhuvan presented the annual report; the juniors presented a cultural programme, a melody of classic graduation dances. Then Ms. Priya Paul, chief guest of the function addressed the audience. Apart from the inspiring address to the graduating students she gave an insight into the hospitality industry’s current standing and spoke about the measures that’ll have to be taken in the future. Final year representative Mr. Rajdeep Tokhi, shared his experiences of the journey at AIH with the audience and it was received with cheer and applause.

Chief Guest Ms. Paul distributed the course completion certificates to the graduating batch. This was followed by conferring the Jit Paul and Surrendra Paul Gold medals. The medals carry great value for the student as it is a recognition of his or her achievement over the 3 years at the institute, it carries material value as well as each medal is 15 grams, 24 carat gold. 

Jit Paul Gold medal is awarded to the passing out student who is an all rounder with the best attitude and values. The winner of this award was Ms. Pratiksha Palkar.  Mr. Holsten D’Souza was the winner of the The Surrendra Paul Gold medal awarded to the student for academic excellence.

The passing out batch took the oath lead by the Master of Ceremony, this was in full academic regalia, students wearing their graduation robes and hats, holding the candles lit by their faculty members signifying the transference of knowledge.

 The programme concluded with the national anthem sung by everyone present. The faculty and students then joined the guests for lunch. Parents were happy seeing their children graduate, it is said that they come to the ceremony as parents but go back home as contemporaries.Certainly a day cherished by all! 

 

We wish for you, a joy filled transition

From the shelter of AIH to the world so wide....

We wish for you new friendships,
While you cherish the old ones.
May you have a smooth journey,
Towards your chosen destination.
Congratulations!
May the world embrace you, excite you, delight you
And strengthen you in everything that you do!
May you make wise decisions, 
And have great success!

"It's not your blue blood, your pedigree or your college degree. It's what you do with your life that counts". ~Millard Fuller

PS

I'll keep with my promise of writing about Abhilash Tomy in my posts till he is back from his historic voyage.

(Abhilash Tomy is attempting to be the first Indian on a solo non stop unassisted circumnavigation of the globe).

He is homeward bound now, crossing the equator for the second time in this voyage. Of course a few days from now and this officer will graduate to be a part of the elite group of men and women - the sailors who have lived their passion and have circumnavigated the globe, solo and unassisted. He also became a Cape Horner, - joining yet another elite group during this voyage.

There has never been an achievement that did not begin with a dream. It must be a great sense of achievement for Tomy that he would be the person that he dreamt of, doing what he wanted to do. Ofcourse he had the courage and the belief in his potential and held on to that dream. What a remarkable examble of strength of character and enormous courage. Fighting all odds and being the survivor. He is on the last leg and an absolute last phase of his voyage. He shall be home soon but ....he has miles to go.... before the nation welcomes him.

This facebook update of Mhadei caught my attention:

"If you are between 13 and 18 years of age, write to me about how sailing protects the environment in less than 50 words and win a chance to sail with me soon. 

Do this before March 26! Happy writing!"

If any of my readers are in this age group, I guess they must try to be the 'One' that he chooses to sail with. Give it a short, who knows you may be sailing with the first Indian solo circumnavigator!... phew!

To know more about Lt. Cdr Tomy and his boat the Mhadei, follow the link below.

Check: www.sagarparikrama2.blogspot.com

            www.Facebook.com/www.mhadei.co.in

Heading for the Horn!

As Tomy is very close to the Cape Horn almost heading there… he is pretty excited about it like any sailor worth his salt. I am following his voyage, and following it enthusiastically! .... to the extent that I dream of it sometimes. Oh there is certainly another voyage that I track on the ‘vessel tracker’ each morning, my husband onboard a chemical tanker. So ever since we got married I have been the ‘tracker’ for the vessel he sails on; ofcourse I am not the nasty bitter half who keeps a track on him always! ... its only the vessel as its nice to see the big wide blue mighty ocean in the morning. Blue is such a cool colour and happens to be my favourite. 
INSV Mhadei and Lt. Cdr. Abhilash Tomy add another aspect to my tracking vessels. This one is purely for adventure and the pride that the whole exercise brings to the nation. When he is back to the base Mumbai and the Indian Navy completes Sagarparikrama 2 successfully, Abhilash becomes the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe nonstop and unassisted. That makes him join the elite group of 80 people from all around the world who have done that before him. What a feat that will be, not only for Tomy as an Indian but also for the Navy to prove its might and successful maritime history.

His last cover picture on the Mhadei’s  facebook page said, Horn 3000 Nautical miles. And current one says 2000 miles away from the Horn. Surely it is the topmost thing on his mind; he is hoping to round the horn and raring to do it fast.

I have read up about the Horn, on the internet, ofcourse! There are thousands of pages available. Reading different aspects of Cape Horn and why is it so distinguished in the minds of the sea farers, if I may say so. There are thousands of people following the voyage now as can be seen from the number of likes on the page and the blog visits. This post is particularly for the people who’d like to know a bit more about the cape and aspects that makes it so exclusive. 
Let me add here that I am not an expert on the topic, I haven't done any sailing either. These facts are taken from Wiki, and other websites and I acknowledge that and every writer that may have been referred. Anyone who wishes to add a fact or negate something is most welcome.Will do the needful! 

Get ready for the Horn…

Cape Horn is the southernmost headland of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago of southern Chile, and is located on the small Hornos Island. Cape Horn marks the northern boundary of the Drake Passage; for many years it was a major milestone on the clipper route, by which sailing ships carried trade around the world. However, the waters around the Cape are particularly hazardous, owing to strong winds, large waves, strong currents and icebergs; these dangers have made it notorious as a sailors' graveyard.

The need for ships to round Cape Horn was greatly reduced by the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914. However, sailing around the Horn is widely regarded as one of the major challenges in yachting. Thus, a few recreational sailors continue to sail this route, sometimes as part of a circumnavigation of the globe, and almost all of these choosing routes through the channels to the north of the actual Cape (though many take a detour through the islands and anchor to wait for fair weather to actually visit Horn Island or even sail around it to replicate a rounding of this historic point). Several prominent ocean yacht races, notably the Volvo Ocean Race, the VELUX 5 Oceans and the Vendée Globe, sail around the world via the Horn, and speed records for round-the-world sailing are recognized for following this route..

The climate in the region is generally cool, owing to the southern latitude with an average annual temperature of 5.2 °C .Winds were reported to average 30 kms per hour (8.33 m/s; 18.64 mph), Cloud cover is generally high, with averages from 5.2 eighths in May and July to 6.4 eighths in December and January.

Visiting Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos, in Spanish) can be done on a day trip by helicopter or by charter power boat or sailboat, or by cruise ship. "Rounding the Horn" is traditionally understood to involve sailing from 50 degrees south on one coast to 50 degrees south on the other coast, the two benchmark latitudes of a Horn run, a considerably more difficult and time-consuming endeavor.

What do the Ships face at the Horn?

Several factors combine to make the passage around Cape Horn one of the most hazardous shipping routes in the world; the fierce sailing conditions prevalent in the Southern Ocean generally; the geography of the passage south of the Horn; and the extreme southern latitude of the Horn, at 56° south.

The prevailing winds in latitudes below 40° south can blow from west to east around the world almost uninterrupted by land, giving rise to the "roaring forties" and the even more wild "furious fifties" and "screaming sixties". These winds are hazardous enough in themselves that ships traveling east would tend to stay in the northern part of the forties (i.e. not far below 40° south latitude); however, rounding Cape Horn requires ships to press south to 56° south latitude, well into the zone of fiercest winds. These winds are further exacerbated at the Horn by the funneling effect of the Andes and the Antarctic Peninsula, which channel the winds into the relatively narrow Drake Passage.

The strong winds of the Southern Ocean give rise to correspondingly large waves; these waves can attain enormous size as they roll around the Southern Ocean, free of any interruption from land. At the Horn, however, these waves encounter an area of shallow water to the south of the Horn, which has the effect of making the waves shorter and steeper, greatly increasing the hazard to ships. In addition to these "normal" waves, the area west of the Horn is particularly notorious for rogue waves, which can attain heights of up to 30 metres (100 ft). The prevailing winds and currents create problems for vessels attempting to round the Horn against them, i.e. from east to west. Although this affects all vessels to some extent, it was a particularly serious problem for traditional sailing ships, which could make very little headway against the wind at the best of times; modern sailing boats are significantly more efficient to windward and can more reliably make a westward passage of the Horn, as they do in the Global Challenge race.

Rounding the Horn, under sail, on a non-stop passage of more than 3,000 miles passing through the latitude of 50 degrees south both east and west of Cape Horn grants sailors eligibility to apply for membership of the exclusive International Association of Cape horners an elite organisation whose origins lie amongst those who rounded the Horn as professional seamen serving upon the tall ships of the Clipper era. There are no exceptions to the strict joining criteria whose membership now includes members of crews from several notable Round the World Yacht races and others who have shared the same unique experience - the 'Mount Everest' of ocean sailing.

For detailed reading refer to the wiki link on Horn:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Horn

For the people, the general public, who would like to get there, can take trips to Cape Horn on Cruise ships. There are voyages available to Cape Horn that can be done even on sail boats. Companies dealing in adventure tours have packages on offer. Again, one can look up for those on the internet. Almost all Cruise liners have tours with a voyage ranging from 13 days to 50 days.
There are many hotels near Cape Horn, and their reviews can be checked on Tripadvisor or other sites that review hotels. 
As far as tourism is concerned, the tourists would be special interest group as it attracts people who are studying bio diversities in an ecosystem. The local community of the Cape Horn region consists of families and naval personnel of the Chilean navy, the indigenous Yahgan community, and individuals from areas throughout Chile. 

Liked this comment posted by someone who's been there,'' There is always a cape waiting for you in life, but if it is Cape Horn, the cape at the southern tip of the American continent and if you are lucky enough to round it, then you'll never forget it". 

Oh given an opportunity to round the Horn, .....don't know if I can do that on a sail boat...(I get sea sick) may be on an airplane I surely can. Look forward to that!

To know more about Lt. Cdr Tomy and his boat the Mhadei, follow the link below.

Check: www.sagarparikrama2.blogspot.com

             www.Facebook.com/www.mhadei.co.in

The pictures have been taken from various websites, if anyone has an objection regarding their use, they'd be promptly removed.

Of Doldrums and tradewinds

Post dedicated to Abhilash Tomy
(who is attempting to be the first Indian on a solo non stop unassisted circumnavigation of the globe)

Now that he is doing fabulously well as far as the voyage is concerned, very close to the tropic of Capricorn.  The people who don't belong to the water world need to update their geography. I, kind of did mine, read up on Google the Great and for the finer nuances checked up with my Captain. He beats Google Guru a lot of the times when it comes to water world. Hence forth all those following the Mhadei need to have the Google and Wiki as a ready reference only then would we, the ladies to be specific will understand that. I remember my geography teacher explaining these topics but who knew then that it was a good idea to have generated better interest and understanding. Its never too late to pick up on the lessons left far behind. Education they say is a life long activity, unlike training that's generally used up or demonstrated immediately after a successful session.

A bit about the trade winds, According to the Wiki, The term trade winds originally derives from the early fourteenth century late Middle English word 'trade' meaning "path" or "track” The Portuguese recognized the importance of the trade winds in navigation in the Atlantic ocean as early as the 15th century. The full wind circulation, which included both the trade wind easterlies and higher-latitude Westerlies, was unknown (to Europeans) across the Pacific ocean until Andres de Urdaneta's voyage in 1565.The captain of a sailing ship seeks a course along which the winds can be expected to blow in the direction of travel. During the Age of Sail the pattern of prevailing winds made various points of the globe easy or difficult to access, and therefore had a direct impact on European empire-building and thus on modern political geography.  By the 18th century the importance of the trade winds to England's merchant fleet for crossing the Atlantic Ocean had led both the general public and etymologists to identify the name with a later meaning of 'trade', (foreign) commerce".Between 1847 and 1849, Matthew Fontaine Maury collected enough information to create wind and current charts for the world's oceans.

Now, there are a lot more people reading about the voyage and of course about the man and the boat as well. I was wondering if the man is any different from his brethren, the fellow men may be women also, of courage and guts .(I count myself out of it). I may have the will power but a tiny meany lizard can get the better of me! Yes all are the same. We feel heat just the way we feel cold, we get upset, frustrated at times just like we feel happiness, triumph and glory at the other times. What makes the people who venture out on their own,  is the mental make up. A lot of cream, mousse, rouge and whatever else you can think of!

Great going Sailor, you are making us brush up on our geography. I do recollect the doldrums, the jet streams and Coriolis effect now. Wishing you more fair winds and following seas. That's what the sailors wish. 

Check: www.sagarparikrama2.blogspot.com

              www.Facebook.com/www.mhadei.co.in

Sailing on wings! – post dedicated to Abhilash Tomy

The Mighty Ocean

Oh what a mystery, a bundle of surprise, 

And immense beauty!

It has all the noise yet.... so silent,

It encompasses the secrets

In abundance!

It is love, an enjoyable dream,

It's a winner all through......

This post is dedicated to Lt. Cdr. Abhilash Tomy

It’s about  India's greatest naval adventure.

It is about one man who will cover 40000 kms, sailing around the world, alone and without any help or stops. The boat will go through some of the most terrible and lonely places on this planet encountering ferocious storms and raging seas. An adventure of this magnitude is so difficult that less than 100 people have ever successfully completed one. To compare more than 5 times the number has gone to space and more than 5000 people have been on the Everest.

A bit about Abhilash- the Man

A look at him will tell you he is just the guy next door, tall dark and handsome probably an expression of his Mallu genes! A young naval officer... if 33 is young!  is a pilot by trade or specialisation but has chosen to sail. He has been doing that for almost 5 years now. If you asked him what was a pilot doing in the sea, he would say that he learnt sailing first and then flying. Anyway at the horizon, can't distinguish one from the other.

My memories of him go back to the school days in Kochi, where we studied in the same school. He was a quiet boy, all to himself but had a bright twinkle in his eyes. He laughed heartily. Met him almost 10 years ago when he was training to be a pilot, in Goa. I guess he was already a pilot then.... 

No contacts after that, then one fine day, last month I see a post on facebook where my school mate had commented. It was a best of luck wish to Abhilash. On looking further I was delighted to know this person to be my junior from school  who was taking on this gigantic endeavour.  Mhadei, the boat was taking him on a journey around the world,  a solo circumnavigation attempt first time by an Indian without any stops or onboard assistance.

It really got me curios, I come from the Defece background, dad was a marine cammando, a Deep sea diver (saturation) in the Navy. Brother is also associated with the Merchant Navy and I am married to a master mariner. I know how the sea / oceans behave. I understood the challenges that came along. I had a chat with my husband on this and like any curious mind I had a million questions. He explained the concept and also the oceans at this time of the year. He also told me the adversities that Abhilash may encounter but he said that apart from physical endurance, it'll be his mental strength or makeup that'll take him through.

This really made me wonder, is all this worth it....its maddening.... yes it does!! He isn't doing it just for himself, he is doing it as a way to pay tribute to our vast coastline, to the might of our Navy and to all those men and women who have pledged their lives to this great nation... Sa No Varun! I feel so proud of my country, so proud of my roots and so proud to know this man personally... Abhilash you have made each one of us to look for the stars... there's no limit and you'll inspire  hundreds of men and women to adorn the white uniform. Its a big responsibility that you carry on your shoulders but Sailor just enjoy the solitude! enjoy your time in the ocean, you are so fortunate to have earned where you are. Behave as you belong there.... as you own the oceans! 

Nothing can ever be higher challenge than this, you must just be with the flow, wishing you fair weather, following seas and friendly waves.

Check:  www.sagarparikrama2.blogspot.com

              www.Facebook.com/www.mhadei.co.in

Salute to the sailor!!