We left Malta Grand Harbour early this morning aboard a
conveyance ship which ferried us to R.V. Urania which was waiting for us
outside the harbour. This ‘tender’ was
larger than many of the ships scientists would use to conduct research
from! It did not take long to complete
the 3 mile journey to the Urania in open water.
All luggage was transferred by crane (for safety reasons,
not because we packed too much), and then our safety tour began. Indoors the ship is air conditioned, but the
weather was very warm and once a door to the outside was opened, everyone was
greeted by a blast of hot air. Many of the scientists had to stop themselves
jumping into the flat calm water for a swim.
Time passed quickly setting up equipment and before long it was time for
lunch. Every scientist left satisfied
knowing then next work shift would be fuelled by delicious ravioli.
The cruise work is split into shifts, 8-12, 12-4 and 4-8
through the full 24 hours of the day. As
a result some people went to bed in preparation for their night shift, while
others worked.
The Urania and her crew, being Italian, are full of
expectation for tonight’s football game against Germany. Most scientists will also be cheering on
Italy regardless of their own nationality, after all, we have to show
solidarity with our hosts, no?
Despite the football, seismic and multibeam data acquisition
will continue right through the night.
