by Colin de Mowbray
The crew change happened as planned yesterday and the new crew arrived converged on Reykjavik from different locations, most coming from Heathrow but others from Stockholm and Aberdeen. Amongst the new comers is Charlie Osborne who takes over from Mike Harry as Skipper in Antiope for the last two legs. Charlie should not have too much trouble settling in as he was skipper of Antiope in Clipper 96! Originally he was due to do all four legs but his firm had the contract to modify the wiring system in the eight Clippers and was enjoying this challenge so much he ran out of time. We thank Mike Harry very much for all his work on the first two legs and especially for his reports that have been enjoyed by so many. The next change on the staff side will be when Sir Robin returns after this leg and Jim Thom, who was skipper of Mermerus in Clipper 98, takes over from him in Ariel.
This crew change marks the half way point in whole voyage. I spoke to Sir Robin yesterday and his plans are to head to the East Coast of Greenland and try and get through to the fjords but he was still getting the ice reports. It is going to be just as enthralling as the previous two legs and I hope you are able to stay with the daily reports as the voyage unfolds.
No reports from the boats as yet as they will be settling in. I suspect the two young mates will be two busy reading their new editions of the yachting magazines which were sent out to them.
LONDON
Taeping will be berthing in St Katharine's Dock (Just next to Tower Bridge) on this Thursday (16th July) and remaining there until the following Thursday (23rd July). She will be open to the public over the weekend and on PM Wednesday 22 July. Details are on the News Item on the Clipper Ventures Home Page. This is an ideal chance to view a Clipper and talk to crew members. Don't forget we are still selecting a few more crew for Clipper 98 starting in October this year so please use this opportunity to learn about Clipper.
Bingo
Colin
