http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/en-UKMokoFeed10http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/ba/bcbba271a6073650484a532536a0b4_160x200.jpghttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/90th-birthday-party-7161939/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-10-13:/2009/10/13/90th-birthday-party-7161939/Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:31:21 +0200 <p>Now I know I wrote the last entry, proclaiming how rushed off my feet I am, but some things are more important than work, and my Grandfathers 90th Birthday party was 1 such occasion. Having missed numerous family events over the last few years including my sisters wedding, I was determined to try my hardest to make this one. The location of the party was also very special to the whole family, as it is where we gathered 22 years ago to celebrate my Great-Grandfathers 100th Birthday.<br> So on Friday afternoon, I ran away from the ship, jumped on a ferry, and began a marathon journey to make it back to the Gower in Wales for the party.<br> I had kept my attendance a surprise as I didn't know till the last minute whether drydock progress would enable me to go, or not. The journey there involved 4 countries in 12 hours, beginning in Denmark, then the ferry to Sweden, a flight to Stansted, and a long drive to Wales.<br> I arrived on Saturday morning, and bumped into 1 of my cousins who told me my parents and grandfather were walking along a beach. We met as they were walking back along the beach, and it was a great suprise greeted with hugs all round and a few tears. Then it was back to the hotel to meet up with more family before heading to Caswell Beach with the next generation of the family.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/beach1/3999044" title="beach1"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/044/3999044_c96d241146_m.jpeg" alt="beach1"></a><br> It was a place that I had spent lots of time as a child, and I soon reverted back to my youth, taking off my shoes, and messing around in rock pools with my nephew and his cousins.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/beach2/3999045" title="beach2"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/045/3999045_18c194a68e_m.jpeg" alt="beach2"></a><br> Then it was back to the hotel to meet yet more of the family and have a good catch up and an afternoon swim.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/swimming/3999051" title="swimming"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/051/3999051_e13e7ed2b6_m.jpeg" alt="swimming"></a><br> The family soon divided into the swimmers and the drinkers. Surprisingly I was in the swimming category. Although it was more a splashing session than a swimming session.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/non_swimmers/3999049" title="non swimmers"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/049/3999049_b55ea6dead_m.jpeg" alt="non swimmers"></a><br> Saturday night saw 26 of the family gathered for an excellent meal and far too much drink. The cobwebs and hangovers were soon blown away on Sunday morning as we all headed out for a nice walk along the cliffs.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/cliff/3999046" title="cliff"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/046/3999046_40de331935_m.jpeg" alt="cliff"></a><br> I say nice. Its all fairly relative, and maybe strong winds, cold temperatures, and rain aren't everyones idea of fun, but it didn't seem to bother any of us. Although the nice bar and comfy sofa were very welcome on the return to the hotel. Even better was been able to share the sofa with my Dad and Nephew.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sofa/3999050" title="sofa"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/050/3999050_b3189d7ce0_m.jpeg" alt="sofa"></a><br> Then it was time for the big event of the weekend, and my Grandfathers birthday lunch. He shared blowing out the candles on the cake with 3 of his great-grandchildren, who then proceeded to demolish as much of the cake as their parents would let them.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/great_gandad/3999047" title="great gandad"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/047/3999047_c55e07aa03_m.jpeg" alt="great gandad"></a><br> Then unfortunately for me the weekend was over, and another marathon journey lay ahead. This time it was a cross country drive to Gatwick, and a late night flight back to Denmark.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/me_and_grandad/3999048" title="me and grandad"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/048/3999048_b3bbfc73c4_m.jpeg" alt="me and grandad"></a><br> So a very busy weekend, a very long way to go, but I wouldn't have missed it for the world! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/90th-birthday-party-7161939/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/90th-birthday-party-7161939/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/drydock-frederikshavn-7160302/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-10-13:/2009/10/13/drydock-frederikshavn-7160302/Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:42:19 +0200 <p>Well, since my last update, almost all of the good intentions have gone by the wayside. Not only have I been very slow and useless at keeping my blog upto date, I have been even worse at the new exercise regime. I do however have some very good excuses. </p> <p>Life as Chief Officer is very hectic, but the experience is so far a very good one. The only thing that has been lacking over the last 6 weeks is some time at sea. We are currently in drydock in Denmark, and before that we were laid up in Montrose as there was no further jobs for us. So lots of time in port, which has been a pretty fair mix of work and play.</p> <p>As for drydock, we arrived in Denmark about 2 weeks ago, and have been in drydock for just over a week. The preparation involved in getting to this point was a steep learning curve for me, as I needed to check all the stability information and ensure that I was all set for the massive jobs list once we docked.</p> <p>Before we could dock, the drydock needed to be inspected to ensure that all the blocks that the ship was going to sit on were in the right positions. Luckily the yard here are excellent, and everything was as it should be, to enable us to access all the underwater fittings.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0012/3997823" title="IMGP0012"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/823/3997823_10465e6607_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0012"></a><br> The drydock is different to my past experiences in that we are in a floating dock. This meant that after we were in position, the water was slowly pumped out of the dock, letting the dock float up and take our weight. It was all a very quick and efficient process, as has everything else been since our arrival.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0016/3997824" title="IMGP0016"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/824/3997824_0ea9474a37_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0016"></a><br> Once we were high and dry, it was back down to the dock bottom to get the before pictures. This revealed quite a bit of marine growth, and several bare patches where the ice had beaten the paint in the battle for supremacy.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0030/3997825" title="IMGP0030"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/825/3997825_cdb37cb7a8_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0030"></a><br> Since our arrival it has been non stop, with people crawling all over the ship. As I currently write, we have no rudder or propeller in the ship as they are both ashore for work. The entire underside has been sand blasted to bare metal ready for a new coating. And I have had the unenviable task of crawling through every horrible, nasty tank onboard to check the condition and identify any work required. So a very busy, dirty and tiring time!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0040/3997827" title="IMGP0040"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/827/3997827_4ff4efa03f_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0040"></a><br> All that said, the work is going very well, and I am enjoying it. More importantly it is a great opportunity to learn more about the ship and the Chief Officers job.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0031/3997826" title="IMGP0031"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/826/3997826_4bca9d4f37_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0031"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0043/3997828" title="IMGP0043"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/828/3997828_74333996c5_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0043"></a><br> And whilst I have been busy getting the big ship refitted, I haven't completely forgotton about my little boat back in Spain. In the evenings I have been trying to get to grips with some nice easy carpentry, and have made some nice new name boats for Fintail. Not bad for a first effort with a router, and I didn't even end up with any stitches!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0048/3997829" title="IMGP0048"><img src="http://data6.blog.de/media/829/3997829_6901cbd571_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0048"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/drydock-frederikshavn-7160302/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/10/13/drydock-frederikshavn-7160302/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/22/back-to-sea-and-full-of-good-intentions-6791849/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-08-22:/2009/08/22/back-to-sea-and-full-of-good-intentions-6791849/Sat, 22 Aug 2009 07:00:15 +0200 <p>I've now been back at sea for just under 3 weeks and so far so good. Its been a pretty busy time as I have gone from doing the nice simple second mates job, to covering the Chief Officers role, gaining other titles such as dynamic positioning officer and helicopter landing officer as part of the package. </p> <p>Work wise, we are back in the North Sea, and have spent the last few weeks working in the vicinity of Janice. Not a middle aged lady with serious looking glasses as the name might suggest, but an oil rig. Or more specifically an FPU or Floating Production Unit. Our job out here is to carry out a full inspection of the platform and all the associated sub sea structures using the 2 ROVs that we have onboard. So lots of time sitting at the DP desk with my feet up, while the ROV pilots and surveyors do their thing.</p> <p>The weather has been pretty mixed, with a bit of time lost due to bad weather, and a few lovely calm days. There have even been a few good sunrises, one of which was impressive enough to make Janice look pretty.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunrise/3811650" title="sunrise"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/650/3811650_e68c438e87_m.jpeg" alt="sunrise"></a><br> So apart from sitting around with my feet up, I have also had to get to grips with the job of helicopter landing officer (HLO). The HLO is responsible for running the helideck team for any helicopter landings. As such I oversee all aspects of the operation from getting the helideck ready, arranging and briefing the team, and talking to the helicopter pilots. So no pressure or anything then, and thats before we take into account trying to organise the loading and unloading of the helicopter under noisy turning rotors.<br> This week has seen 2 helicopters coming to the ship. Chopper 1 was a nice easy introduction to the HLO job, as it was 1 passenger arriving and 1 leaving. It all went quite well but I did mess up, and committed the truely unforgivable mistake of not giving the piots their packed lunches!<br> Chopper 2 was the real test, with 9 people coming and going together with all their associated bags. This also went smoothly, and I even remembered the packed lunches! Fingers crossed there won't be any more helicopters due for a long time, as standing under rotor blades on a moving helideck isn't exactly my idea of a fun afternoon.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/chopper/3811651" title="chopper"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/651/3811651_ec8a46a1fa_m.jpeg" alt="chopper"></a><br> I'm the one in red, standing around while the lads do a fine job unloading the bags.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/midload/3811652" title="midload"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/652/3811652_e94931b90a_m.jpeg" alt="midload"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/choppergoing/3811653" title="choppergoing"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/653/3811653_abe36f193e_m.jpeg" alt="choppergoing"></a><br> So, the good intentions that I'm full of.....<br> New years resolutions normally last till about lunch time, so I'm doing pretty well on my back to sea intentions. After lots of hunting I have finally located the gym, and as a result of peer pressure I have agreed to do a 10km leg of the Stanley Marathon in March. So I'm actually spending some of my time trying to get fit. The aim for the next few months is to cover the 1500km from Lands End to John O Groats, by rowing, running and cycling. So far I'm about 200km in, so a reasonable start. Will it continue.... Your guess is as good as mine, but at least the intention is there.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/22/back-to-sea-and-full-of-good-intentions-6791849/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/22/back-to-sea-and-full-of-good-intentions-6791849/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/08/another-leave-6675781/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-08-08:/2009/08/08/another-leave-6675781/Sat, 08 Aug 2009 02:51:42 +0200 <p>Ok, so as usual I am running at least a month behind on the blog. But I have a more than valid excuse. I have been on leave, which has been a very hard month of lying in the sun, drinking and eating to excess and even the odd bit of sailing. </p> <p>So rewind a month, and after lots of debate the crew change was finally scheduled to happen by helicopter. To say I wasn't overly keen on the idea was a bit of an understatement. Any mode of transport where you have to wear a full survival suit, lifejacket and rebreather just to be able to get onboard isn't exactly my idea of a nice day trip. Add to this that the weather that had been great for the previous month was finally beginning to deteriorate, and things weren't looking the best.</p> <p>But the magic day finally arrived, and after a few hours delay while the helicopter waited in Aberdeen for thunder and lightening storms to clear, we were finally off. But of course things weren't quite that simple. We boarded the helicopter, and were immediately told that the weather had deteriorated, so we were going to land on the Gryphon platform and await better conditions. So leg 1 was a 2 minute hop. Then we all disembarked for a 45 minute wait before we could continue on our way. This time with the pilot explaining that we may make it to Aberdeen, but if not, we would land at Wick or Peterhead and wait once more. So why exactly I'm smiling in the next picture is a total mystery.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/in_helo/3764457" title="in helo"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/457/3764457_7ca17fe2e6_m.jpeg" alt="in helo"></a><br> Now I remember, I had just realised that I was on my way to Spain for a month.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/helicopter/3764456" title="helicopter"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/456/3764456_b6842b392f_m.jpeg" alt="helicopter"></a><br> After a fortunately uneventful flight we landed in Aberdeen in the early afternoon, and I then had an onward flight to Birmingham where I spent the night catching up with my family before carrying onto Spain the following morning.<br> So for the last month I have been relaxing in the sunshine, with a steady stream of friends to keep me company, and help me justify why the recycling bag is always so full!<br> Not that it is all lying in the sun, drinking gin and reading books. I did manage a day of culture when Hannah and Kirsty were over, with a visit to Cartagena. The view below is of the newly renovated ampitheatre, which I have watched slowly emerge from the ground over the last few years, and is now completed.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ampitheatre/3764454" title="ampitheatre"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/454/3764454_ca4711cd16_m.jpeg" alt="ampitheatre"></a><br> And of course I managed to get Fintail out for a few good sails, and even a bit of swimming. Although jumping in the water at lunch time when it is your own boat looses the magic a bit, as you instantly want to grab a brush and start cleaning the sides.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/fintail_from_water/3764455" title="fintail from water"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/455/3764455_4599fae50d_m.jpeg" alt="fintail from water"></a><br> So while I was busy with my scrubbing brush, I let Kirsty practice her diving skills.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/kirsty_dive/3764458" title="kirsty dive"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/458/3764458_1733760975_m.jpeg" alt="kirsty dive"></a><br> Then of course, no visit to see me is complete without the mud. This time the modelling is done by Hannah and Kirsty. There was of course the normal picture of all 3 of use with beer cans in hand, but I have exercised my rights as editor, as it really wasn't a good photo.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/more_mud/3764459" title="more mud"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/459/3764459_d20cb5a680_m.jpeg" alt="more mud"></a><br> And the final shot of the leave is of Sophie and Jeremy relaxing in the swimming pool.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/soph_and_jeremy/3764460" title="soph and jeremy"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/460/3764460_60b14f1f6e_m.jpeg" alt="soph and jeremy"></a><br> So a very short leave, but very busy and very good fun.</p> <p>I returned to the UK on Sunday, and after 2 nights waiting for the ship in a very nice hotel suite in Aberdeen, I finally rejoined in Peterhead on Tuesday. So back to work, but all change as I am sailing as Chief Officer for at least the first part of the trip. So a bigger cabin, a bigger work load and more responsibility to go with it. Also a very steep learning curve, but so far so good. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/08/another-leave-6675781/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/08/08/another-leave-6675781/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/07/04/north-sea-work-6449537/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-07-04:/2009/07/04/north-sea-work-6449537/Sat, 04 Jul 2009 23:10:59 +0200 <p>After far too long enjoying myself, it was finally back to work, and my first introduction to the commercial world of shipping in the North Sea. So no prospects of seeing penguins and albatrosses for the next month, but plenty of oil and gas rigs in their place. </p> <p>I joined the ship in Kristiansund Norway, and had the bonus of a night in a hotel prior to joining the ship. Kristiansund was a lovely little place, and very picturesque, however I completely forgot to take any pictures. So I'm afraid you are stuck with the at sea pictures, and not a single pretty Fjord in sight. </p> <p>The first 10 days of the trip were spent with a group of Norwegians who were sent out to use the ship to collect mud samples for shell. It was a nice gentle start to the trip, which was just as well when we were getting within 50metres or so of platforms like the one shown below.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0547/3655732" title="IMGP0547"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/732/3655732_c2882f7a96_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0547"></a><br> This beautiful picture is of the Draugen Plaform. As you see it only has one leg, but manages perfectly well, and seemed happy enough. </p> <p>After completing the work for the Norwegians we headed into a small town called Floro to demobilise all their equipment. Floro was also a very picturesque place, with a stunning run in through the Fjords. But you've guessed it, not a single picture there either, so you get to see the DP desk.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0552/3655734" title="IMGP0552"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/734/3655734_a06d265c88_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0552"></a><br> The DP or Dynamic Positioning desk is where we do most of our driving from while we are doing work in the north sea. DP is a clever computer system that uses all the ships thrusters, propeller and rudder and puts it all together to keep the vessel either stationary, or moving in exact directions and speeds. It also has the capability to track under water beacons, which lets the ship follow ROV's. It was this function that we have been using for the second half of the trip. </p> <p>So from picturesque Norway we headed back across the North Sea to Aberdeen, where we were to mobilise the next cruise. This time we traded the mud sampling gear for 2 all singing ROV's and all the associated gear that we were to need for the upcoming work. This time the work was to be pipe line surveys, and inspecting oil rigs and FPSO's (I'll explain what that is in a minute).</p> <p>So with all the kit onboard we headed north east, which brings me to our current position which is pretty much in the middle of the north sea between Orkney and Norway. We have been here for about a week, working around the Gryphon Oil Field, doing a range of survey work with the clever little mini subs.</p> <p>Gryphon is an FPSO, or Floating Production and Storage unit. Effectively it does the same job as an oil rig, but is a large ship, as you can see from the picture.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0560/3655733" title="IMGP0560"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/733/3655733_6949faee04_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0560"></a><br> The work has been really interesting and I am finally getting used to taking the vessel to within 20metres of a big ship and not been scared any more. Although I don't think I'll try it when I'm on a normal watch deep sea!</p> <p>The next picture shows me part way through a hectic 12 hour watch.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0554/3655735" title="IMGP0554"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/735/3655735_702ab12cef_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0554"></a><br> The next photo is courtesy of a helicopter pilot, and shows just how small a ship the Ernest Shackleton is compared to the some what bigger Gryphon.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/gryphon4/3655737" title="Gryphon4"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/737/3655737_1ff8047190_m.jpeg" alt="Gryphon4"></a><br> An ariel view will also be the last sight I will have of the ship for this trip, as we are due to do an at sea crew change by helicopter on Monday. Fingers crossed everything goes well, and I will be back in sunny Spain by Tuesday evening. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/07/04/north-sea-work-6449537/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/07/04/north-sea-work-6449537/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/06/11/courses-course-and-more-courses-6283667/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-06-11:/2009/06/11/courses-course-and-more-courses-6283667/Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:47:37 +0200 <p>All good things must come to an end, and after a nice bit of time over in Spain, I finally had to return to the real world. Before I could rejoin the ship I had to attend a few courses to enable me to work around the oil and gas fields of the North Sea. For this I had to head to Norfolk, and the Petans training centre.<br> The first course on the list went by the name of BOSIET, and was 3 days of general offshore safety, including the joys of escaping from an upturned helicopter in a swimming pool. Not an enjoyable experience, but at least it is done. No pictures of the exciting bits of the course, as I was too busy worrying about drowning to remember my camera. So the best I can offer is the lifeboat training platform.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lifeboats/3587124" title="lifeboats"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/124/3587124_cfdb9cc78c_m.jpeg" alt="lifeboats"></a><br> Next on the list were 3 courses in a row dealing with helicopter operations. First on the list was the emergency helideck team members course. This was great fun, involving 3 days of pretend helicopter crashes and lots of fire fighting.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/well/3587125" title="well"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/125/3587125_b289ad2b4d_m.jpeg" alt="well"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/fire1/3587126" title="fire1"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/126/3587126_04c213ea27_m.jpeg" alt="fire1"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/firefighting/3587127" title="firefighting"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/127/3587127_fed0ffa65c_m.jpeg" alt="firefighting"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/firefighting1/3587128" title="firefighting1"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/128/3587128_5616869584_m.jpeg" alt="firefighting1"></a><br> Then after dealing with what happens when things go wrong, I moved onto 2 courses which enabled me to gain my helicopter landing officers certificate. This was a more theoretical few days of radio procedures and the rules and regs for helidecks and their operation.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/helideck/3587129" title="helideck"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/129/3587129_139ac3d881_m.jpeg" alt="helideck"></a><br> So with the courses now out of the way I rejoined the RRS Ernest Shackleton in Kristiansund, Norway on Monday. As I write we are about 1000m from a large oil rig collecting mud samples from the sea bed.<br> Its great to be back onboard, and even better as the weather is very nice, and the work not too hectic. The slightly worrying thought for the day is that the first time I see an actual helicopter approaching the ship it is my job to be in charge of landing it! North Sea helicopter pilots beware.</p> <p>Many thanks to Greg for the use of the photos. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/06/11/courses-course-and-more-courses-6283667/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>petanshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/06/11/courses-course-and-more-courses-6283667/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/05/26/sun-spain-and-sailing-6182756/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-05-26:/2009/05/26/sun-spain-and-sailing-6182756/Tue, 26 May 2009 22:20:34 +0200 <p>All good things must come to an end, and I am now back in the UK after another great few weeks in Spain. The first week was another boat maintainence marathon. And even if I am slightly biased, I think my hard work is starting to pay off and I am slowly returning Fintail to her former glory.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/the_work_paying_off/3541363" title="the work paying off"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/363/3541363_eb0cec7094_m.jpeg" alt="the work paying off" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> With the hard work done, I was joined by my parents, sister and nephew Dylan. So an end to the hard work, and a chance to finally get out and enjoy a bit of sailing. Dylan celebrated his 3rd birthday with his first of hopefully many visits to Aunty Jo's boat. He seemed to approve, even if his lifejacket is still a little bit too big.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/family_again/3541368" title="family again"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/368/3541368_bf96bea826_m.jpeg" alt="family again" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Unfortunately the weather didn't allow for a birthday sail, so his first trip to sea was on the La Manga ferry. Not quite the same, but he seemed to enjoy it all the same.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sarah_and_dylan/3541364" title="sarah and dylan"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/364/3541364_3fe468a191_m.jpeg" alt="sarah and dylan" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Later in the week we finally made it out for an excellent bit of sailing, with everyone having a good day.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dad/3541369" title="dad"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/369/3541369_8ded398285_m.jpeg" alt="dad" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/family_sailing/3541367" title="family sailing"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/367/3541367_5b88512c98_m.jpeg" alt="family sailing" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As for me, I spent a bit more time puzzling over why after getting all the sails up I am still left with a vast array of lines that I have no idea what they do!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rigging/3541365" title="rigging"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/365/3541365_4a316c7fdb_m.jpeg" alt="rigging" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It didn't take Dylan long to figure out what the tiller did, and he was very put out when anyone else tried to touch his tiller. Definately a captain in the making, I just hope I can get him to steer a slightly straighter course next time.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/captain_dylan/3541370" title="captain dylan"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/370/3541370_543310fb27_m.jpeg" alt="captain dylan" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And I always knew a day on the water was pretty tiring, but mum and Dylan seemed to suffer more than most!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/hard_life/3541366" title="hard life"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/366/3541366_f48ba02633_m.jpeg" alt="hard life" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As for now. I am back in the UK and heading off to Norfolk tomorrow for a few courses. Then finally back to sea in the middle of June. Hopefully for a much less eventful trip than my last effort. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/05/26/sun-spain-and-sailing-6182756/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>fintailvenus-ketchhttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/05/26/sun-spain-and-sailing-6182756/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/04/07/a-few-days-in-gibraltar-5904289/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-04-07:/2009/04/07/a-few-days-in-gibraltar-5904289/Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:16:37 +0200 <p>I allowed myself a few days off from sanding and varnishing Fintail, and headed down to Gibraltar for a break. I lived in Gib for 3 years when I was really young, but have only been back for a day trip since. So I was really interested to see how things have changed and if I could remember much. It was also a great chance to catch up with Ruth who was the doctor on the James Clark Ross last year, as she has just started working down there. </p> <p>My timing of the trip was useless, as the cable car was closed for its annual maintainence. Still, I needed to try and get fit again, and walking up the rock a few times was a good start. This picture was taken from inside the siege tunnels, and looks out to the camp at north front, which is where I lived when I was younger.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/north_front/3388059" title="North Front"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/059/3388059_57e3983313_m.jpeg" alt="North Front" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Next stop was a trip to lower Saint Michaels Caves. The upper caves are on the normal tourist trail, and whilst very impressive, the cave network below is increadible. Luckily for me, a small group from the hopsital had organised a trip to the lower caves so I had the chance to explore the areas that are normally closed.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lower_saint_michaels_cave/3388052" title="Lower Saint Michaels Cave"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/052/3388052_99dff89f48_m.jpeg" alt="Lower Saint Michaels Cave" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> What I didn't realise before the trip was that it was going to involve scrambling around through small gaps, up ropes, in pools and lots of sliding on my backside. All very good fun, but jeans and a white t'shirt probably weren't the best choice of clothes!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/me_and_stalagtites/3388054" title="Me and stalagtites"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/054/3388054_37172436bc_m.jpeg" alt="Me and stalagtites" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The trip was great, with some fantastic formations to see, and loads of fun in the scrambling around to see them.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/curtain/3388053" title="Curtain"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/053/3388053_0361dcc942_m.jpeg" alt="Curtain" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/tites_and_mites/3388055" title="Tites and mites"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/055/3388055_c975c6b50a_m.jpeg" alt="Tites and mites" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Having done the inside of the rock, the next trip took us on a nice walk up the rock, passing all the major sites. First stop was the Moorish Castle, which gave some great views out across Gib to La Linea.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ruth_on_cannon/3388056" title="Ruth on Cannon"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/056/3388056_bccc1de4a3_m.jpeg" alt="Ruth on Cannon" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Then the bit I had been waiting for, and finally a chance to see the apes that I remember so well from when I was younger.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/little_ape/3388060" title="Little ape"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/060/3388060_be37f4429f_m.jpeg" alt="Little ape" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> They are just as cool as I hoped, and it was a great end to a flying visit. And don't worry, I have had a haircut since the photo was taken!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/me_and_ape/3388061" title="Me and Ape"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/061/3388061_73f8b609cd_m.jpeg" alt="Me and Ape" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As for now, I am back in the UK for the final round of doctors and medicals. Then I'm back to Spain on Saturday to get on with my sanding and varnishing. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/04/07/a-few-days-in-gibraltar-5904289/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/04/07/a-few-days-in-gibraltar-5904289/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/12/getting-to-grips-with-fintail-5745316/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-03-12:/2009/03/12/getting-to-grips-with-fintail-5745316/Thu, 12 Mar 2009 20:59:59 +0100 <p>I was after a nice calm day to get the sails up on Fintail, and see what all the bits of string do. And you don't get much calmer than this. I never thought that the salt works on the way out to the marina could look quite so impressive.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0356/3312683" title="IMGP0356"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/683/3312683_eb2b2fe4bc_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0356" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0355/3312684" title="IMGP0355"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/684/3312684_96b373d626_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0355" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I also needed some help, and Paul came to the rescue. Not only helping with the fun tasks of sorting out the sails and rigging, but equally happy helping me with the long task of sorting through the tons of gear, with the photo below showing only a fraction of what we faced.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0367/3312680" title="IMGP0367"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/680/3312680_f09a60dab0_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0367" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Anyway back to the fun stuff. I know its generally more traditional to put your sails up with a boat at sea, but it was exceptionally handy to be able to have a dry run in the marina. And of course it had the added bonus of been able to wander round, and admire her from every angle.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0360/3312681" title="IMGP0360"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/681/3312681_69fd89d2bb_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0360" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It's been a long time since I sailed on a gaff rigger, and with no rigging plan it was certainly an interesting morning. However, as the pictures show, we got there in the end. It was also a pleasant surprise to find the sails in such good condition.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0363/3312682" title="IMGP0363"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/682/3312682_f128bd7ccf_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0363" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> All that said, if anyone has any handy hints on how I can get the topsail up, then please get in touch.</p> <p>So having had a practice run, the next logical step was to head out and see how she actually sailed. The weather was fantastic once again, with a nice breeze which was calm enough for me to get out of the harbour, and just strong enough to get us moving at a few knots.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0379/3312678" title="IMGP0379"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/678/3312678_1f76a6df96_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0379" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> All in all, pretty much perfect for a first sail. Everything went very smoothly, and with the engine turned off, she sailed better than I dared hope, despite the fact that I was too lazy to get the mainsail up, and felt a bit rough, so it was a pretty short trip.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/imgp0376/3312712" title="IMGP0376"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/712/3312712_916a5bd6e1_m.jpeg" alt="IMGP0376" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Of course, the getting out and sailing was the easy bit. The hard part was always going to be the getting back in, and mooring. Fintail has a long keel, which makes going astern an interesting and slightly unpredictable task. For a first effort, I was pretty happy with my attempt. It certainly wasn't quick, but I got there in the end, and even better I didn't even hit anything!</p> <p>I am now back in the UK once again for more tests and checks. Everything seems to be coming to a close, with all the results good and no problems found. So a frustrating mystery, but with everything checked and me well on the mend, it means I can concentrate on all the sanding and varnishing that awaits when I head back to Spain on Monday. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/12/getting-to-grips-with-fintail-5745316/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/12/getting-to-grips-with-fintail-5745316/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/04/fintail-5691549/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-03-04:/2009/03/04/fintail-5691549/Wed, 04 Mar 2009 11:05:11 +0100 <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/fintail_sign/3286503" title="fintail sign"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/503/3286503_e9ba975408_m.jpeg" alt="fintail sign" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Fate works in strange ways, and for me it has led to me buying Fintail. I first came across her last summer, when she came on the market over in Spain. It was love at first sight, but unfortunately the timing was wrong, so I had to let her go. Then by a very stange turn of events, she came back on the market a few weeks ago at a much reduced price and I was given first refusal. Needless to say, that I wasn't going to miss out a second time.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/afar/3286499" title="afar"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/499/3286499_91506c5746_m.jpeg" alt="afar" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> So what is Fintail? She is a 28ft gaff rigged, venus ketch. She was built by her previous owner Peter Storr back in Shoreham in the mid 80's/ early 90's. It was always his dream to build a boat and he took 8 years to convert fintail from a tree into the boat that she is today. His achievement was truely incredible, with the hull construction pretty much bomb proof, and his attention to detail was absolutely meticulous. Sadly Peter passed away last year, so Fintail needed a new owner to look after her, and take her on the long passages that she was always built for. So over to me then!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/backing/3286500" title="backing"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/500/3286500_27ba18fbb4_m.jpeg" alt="backing" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> She will certainly keep me busy, as there has been no maintainence done for the last year. So I think I'll be sanding and painting for a while. Fortunately the hull structure is completely sound, so its a great starting point and will keep me out of mischief.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/closeup/3286501" title="closeup"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/501/3286501_92389ea4ec_m.jpeg" alt="closeup" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The broker moved her round to her new home for me on Sunday. So she is now less than a 10 minute bike ride from the house in Spain, and only a minutes walk from the cafe that I normally use. Not that I'll have any money to spare on things like lunch in cafes for a while.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/bow2/3286502" title="bow2"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/502/3286502_b6df1c09f1_m.jpeg" alt="bow2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I haven't taken her out for a sail yet, as i'm still not on top form, but there is plenty of time for that in the months and years ahead. In the mean time, I am back in the UK to try and get myself sorted. Then I'll be back to Spain to get to work.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/galley/3286504" title="galley"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/504/3286504_7816b9e32e_m.jpeg" alt="galley" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I don't like to beg and pleed, but if anyone finds themselves with a bit of time to spare and fancies some sanding and painting in the sun (who knows, maybe even some sailing), then please give me a shout, and any help will be greatly appreciated.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/inside/3286505" title="inside"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/505/3286505_5356d69fc8_m.jpeg" alt="inside" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I'll let you know how things go.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/port_side/3286506" title="port side"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/506/3286506_04c9b64836_m.jpeg" alt="port side" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> In the mean time, I'll leave you with a quote from Fintails intitial survey which I think sums her up quite well.<br> 'A very extraordinary, heavy weather, long-distance, cruising hull. Massively overbuilt for normal use. It appears to have been well thought out and painstakingly constructed'. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/04/fintail-5691549/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/03/04/fintail-5691549/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/25/back-to-the-uk-5648323/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-25:/2009/02/25/back-to-the-uk-5648323/Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:48:05 +0100 <p>Its certainly been an interesting few weeks, and I have now made it back to the UK. I have certainly learnt at least one lesson over the last few weeks, and that is that if you are going to get ill, then a ship in the Antarctic probably isn't the best place to choose as a starting point. </p> <p>After almost a week at the base at Rothera, I finally managed to continue my journey home, taking a 5 hour flight back to the Falklands in the BAS DASH 7 aircraft.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dash/3266238" title="dash"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/238/3266238_61c4b06c45_m.jpeg" alt="dash" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The flight arrived into the Mount Pleasant airbase in the Falklands, where I spent a night in their medical centre awaiting an onward flight to the UK.<br> Then for the final leg of my journey I was passed into the hands of the RAF aeromedical unit, for the flight from the Falklands to Brize Norton. The aeromed unit were great and the service that they provided was excellent. So after 10 days, and a ridiculous amount of miles, I arrived back into the UK on Saturday morning. </p> <p>The planning that has gone into getting me home has been increadibly impressive, and I owe thanks to an awful lot of people who made the journey as hassle free and fast as possible. Particular thanks have to go to the BAS docs, and the crew on the Shack for their support over last few weeks. Cheers guys! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/25/back-to-the-uk-5648323/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/25/back-to-the-uk-5648323/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/18/a-few-days-at-rothera-5602603/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-18:/2009/02/18/a-few-days-at-rothera-5602603/Wed, 18 Feb 2009 19:01:55 +0100 <p>Its been a very quiet few days for me, with no real photo opportunities (unless you really want to see my room from a whole range of different angles).</p> <p>I arrived at the base at Rothera on Friday evening, and have since been waiting for an onward flight to the Falklands.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rothera/3245693" title="rothera"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/693/3245693_b9a155d957_m.jpeg" alt="rothera" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Rothera is the British Antarctic Surveys largest base. Currently there are about 80 people on base, which will drop to about 22 for the Antarctic winter. The base is located on Adelaide Island which is on the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula at about 67 degrees south.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/bransfield/3245695" title="bransfield"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/695/3245695_8960b3ec97_m.jpeg" alt="bransfield" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The scientists at Rothera carry out a wide range of activities including biology, atmospherics, and geology work. Rothera is also the main base for the BAS air unit, who operate the twin otters and DASH 7 aircraft from the hangar and runway at the base. The planes are only south for the Antarctic summer, and during this time they are used to support the various field parties. The air unit is also the reason I am currently here, as the DASH 7 provides the only alternative to the ships for getting back to the Falklands and the rest of civilisation.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/hangar/3245698" title="hangar"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/698/3245698_d3e58b09df_m.jpeg" alt="hangar" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As for my return to civilisation, as long as the weather is good, I will be flying to the Falklands on the DASH tomorrow morning. Then after a night at Mount Pleasant I will catch an onward flight to the UK, arriving into Brize Norton on Saturday morning.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/bonner/3245696" title="bonner"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/696/3245696_d5c5c34efc_m.jpeg" alt="bonner" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> So a final photo of the view across the bay at Rothera.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rothera_view/3245697" title="rothera view"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/697/3245697_b137a31134_m.jpeg" alt="rothera view" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And just incase anyone did wonder... I have even provided a photo of the 4 walls that I have become so aquainted with over the last few days.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/room/3245749" title="room"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/749/3245749_3a6c9cc916_m.jpeg" alt="room" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/18/a-few-days-at-rothera-5602603/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/18/a-few-days-at-rothera-5602603/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/halley-to-rothera-5572747/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-14:/2009/02/14/halley-to-rothera-5572747/Sat, 14 Feb 2009 15:21:25 +0100 <p>I promised more good pictures, and hopefully I will deliver. My thanks must go out to Jason for the amazing ariel shots, as he was sitting in the co-pilot seat and had a much better view.</p> <p>My journey home continues well, with the latest leg taking me on an amazingly scenic, 7 hour flight from the base at Halley, across the Antarctic Peninsula, to the base at Rothera.</p> <p>The transport for this latest leg, was one of the BAS Twin Otter planes.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/twin_otter/3233061" title="twin otter"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/061/3233061_e577cc2f3a_m.jpeg" alt="twin otter" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Not the biggest of aircraft, but as there were only 3 people onboard, I had plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the view. After take off we had a final glimpse of Halley from the air.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/halley_from_air/3233062" title="halley from air"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/062/3233062_929dc805cd_m.jpeg" alt="halley from air" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Then it was out across the coast, which gave me a whole new perspective on the pack ice. After a few weeks of crunching slowly through the ice, it was amazing to see it from the air. I was hoping that we may be able to catch a final glimpse of the ship, but she was back doing science work, and too far out of our way.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/pack/3233063" title="pack"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/063/3233063_812a7300cf_m.jpeg" alt="pack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> For the middle bit of the flight, the only view was the clouds. As we slowly headed westwards, leaving the ice shelf and pack ice behind us.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/pack_and_clouds/3233064" title="pack and clouds"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/064/3233064_2cac5918e9_m.jpeg" alt="pack and clouds" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Finally the clouds cleared, and the final hour of the flight was absolutely increadible, as we flew across the Antarctic Peninsula. There really is no point even trying to put it into words. I just hope the pictures do it justice.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/peninsula1/3233065" title="peninsula1"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/065/3233065_1bbbfac42e_m.jpeg" alt="peninsula1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/peninsula2/3233066" title="peninsula2"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/066/3233066_c6a717f7c9_m.jpeg" alt="peninsula2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ice_ice/3233067" title="ice ice"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/067/3233067_efa9b3a104_m.jpeg" alt="ice ice" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/peninsula3/3233068" title="peninsula3"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/068/3233068_0996f15101_m.jpeg" alt="peninsula3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Then it was a nice smooth landing at the base at Rothera.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/approaches_to_rothera/3233069" title="approaches to rothera"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/069/3233069_0fbc8c178c_m.jpeg" alt="approaches to rothera" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And a totally new view for me, as I am more used to seeing the base from the ship, which ties up at the other end of the runway.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rothera_landing/3233070" title="rothera landing"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/070/3233070_e3a8fbc0a7_m.jpeg" alt="rothera landing" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> So thats all for now. I have a few days here, then I will continue my journey on Friday as I head back to Stanley on a slightly bigger plane. In the mean time I will see if I can track down some penguins to photograph, as I am getting withdrawal symptoms. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/halley-to-rothera-5572747/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>twin-otterantarctichalleypack-icerotheraantarctic-peninsulahttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/halley-to-rothera-5572747/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/12/more-seals-more-penguins-and-i-make-it-to-halley-5562065/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-12:/2009/02/12/more-seals-more-penguins-and-i-make-it-to-halley-5562065/Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:27:07 +0100 <p>I suppose I may as well get the cheesy picture of myself out of the way first of all.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/jo_emp/3228090" title="jo emp"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/090/3228090_6207a4cd35_m.jpeg" alt="jo emp" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Another busy few days here, with plenty more great opportunities for photos. The seal tagging continues well. We have now tagged 9 seals, which are busy doing seal type things and providing the scientists with lots of useful data, which is sent back to the UK via satellite each time the seal pops up.<br> The count should really have reach our target of 10 by now, but this little chap got away.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/seal_hole/3228088" title="seal hole"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/088/3228088_030723497a_m.jpeg" alt="seal hole" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The ongoing tagging has also provided me with a few more opportunities to get out onto the ice, and add to my ever increasing library of penguin pictures.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/good_emp/3228089" title="good emp"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/089/3228089_1c265d19d5_m.jpeg" alt="good emp" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/emps/3228091" title="emps"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/091/3228091_0c31b71b2f_m.jpeg" alt="emps" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And just incase anyone has wondered how we actually go about getting onto the ice? The answer is by using a contraption called a Wor-geordie, which is lifted up by the ships crane.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/wor_geordie/3228092" title="wor geordie"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/092/3228092_df21537645_m.jpeg" alt="wor geordie" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The seal tagging and science work is now finished for me, as I am on my way home. The ship made her way alongside the ice shelf at a lovely spot called creek 4 this morning. I then disembarked to start my journey home.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ice_shelf/3228097" title="ice shelf"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/097/3228097_d92b198cb1_m.jpeg" alt="ice shelf" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> So this is my last picture of the Shackleton for the season.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/shack_creek4/3228096" title="shack creek4"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/096/3228096_244cfd9465_m.jpeg" alt="shack creek4" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It was then a very sunny snow cat journey to the base at Halley.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/snow_cat/3228095" title="snow cat"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/095/3228095_a9f15bae08_m.jpeg" alt="snow cat" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Halley is our furthest south base, and it is the first time I have ever had the chance to visit. Unlike all the other British Bases it is constantly on the move, as it sits on a moving ice shelf.<br> The base is currently in a time of big change, with the current base nearing the end of its life, and its replacement in the process of construction.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/halley5/3228093" title="halley5"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/093/3228093_cbe7953a5e_m.jpeg" alt="halley5" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The above shot shows the exising Halley V, with the next showing the first completed pod of the new Halley VI<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/halley6/3228094" title="halley6"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/094/3228094_8a604efa24_m.jpeg" alt="halley6" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> My journey will see me flying out of Halley tomorrow. Heading to the base at Rothera, and then from there onto the Falklands and finally the UK. I'll keep you posted... </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/12/more-seals-more-penguins-and-i-make-it-to-halley-5562065/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/12/more-seals-more-penguins-and-i-make-it-to-halley-5562065/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/05/ice-seals-penguins-and-lots-of-fun-5513000/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-05:/2009/02/05/ice-seals-penguins-and-lots-of-fun-5513000/Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:48:25 +0100 <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/big_shack/3206510" title="big shack"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/510/3206510_1a32e710a1_m.jpeg" alt="big shack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> There is only one word that can aptly describe the last few days for me, and that is amazing!<br> I thought I had seen and done quite a lot in my past seasons down here, but I realize now that I have barely touched the surface.<br> Since my last post we have made it down to the edge of the ice shelf in the Weddell Sea, taking the opportunity to see the condition of the mooring sites that we will be using in a few weeks when we visit the base at Halley.<br> Then after the recovery of a buoy from the sea bed, we have headed back into the pack ice for more science. The work is a mixture of ship based activities, such as water column profiling, and air sampling. And then there is the fun stuff (no offence to the water and air sampling folk)...<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/explorers/3206511" title="explorers"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/511/3206511_5fc342b13f_m.jpeg" alt="explorers" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The above photo shows an intrepid group of scientists heading off across an ice floe to fix a tag onto a Weddell Seal. In total we need to find and tag 10 seals, which sounds easy enough, but there seem to be a distinct lack of Weddell Seals in the Weddell Sea.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/close_shack/3206512" title="close shack"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/512/3206512_e02161f2ef_m.jpeg" alt="close shack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> For seal number 2, I managed to join the shore party, so had my first experience of working on an ice floe. So with the ship thrusting up against the floe, I was landed with a party of 5 scientists to carry out the task of tagging the seal.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/weddell_seal/3206516" title="Weddell seal"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/516/3206516_fa4be5e3ae_m.jpeg" alt="Weddell seal" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Luckily the Weddell Seals are fairly docile, and easy to approach which made the whole process much easier. I got hands on with the work, and helped measure the seal (in between taking photos).<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/preparation/3206515" title="preparation"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/515/3206515_aedf91945d_m.jpeg" alt="preparation" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> With the work completed, it was back to the ship. With a chance for a final few photos on the way. This time, it was an inquisitive Emperor Penguin, who popped up to see what the big red ship was doing.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/emperor_standing/3206513" title="emperor standing"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/513/3206513_02470a9838_m.jpeg" alt="emperor standing" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/emperor_lying/3206514" title="emperor lying"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/514/3206514_a9c345e20d_m.jpeg" alt="emperor lying" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And of course a final photo call to prove that I did manage to escape the bridge and help out with the work.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/meshack/3206517" title="meshack"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/517/3206517_8bd6370830_m.jpeg" alt="meshack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/05/ice-seals-penguins-and-lots-of-fun-5513000/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/05/ice-seals-penguins-and-lots-of-fun-5513000/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/01/back-to-the-antarctic-5483974/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2009-02-01:/2009/02/01/back-to-the-antarctic-5483974/Sun, 01 Feb 2009 02:42:31 +0100 <p>Another long delay, but hopefully the start of several Antarctic posts over the next few weeks. </p> <p>Despite the fact that this is my 7th season down here, it is all new for me this year. For a start I am on a different ship, and secondly I am getting the chance to visit places that I haven't ventured to before, while also to carring out work that is entirely new to me. </p> <p>For this season, and hopefully many more to come I have transferred across to the RRS Ernest Shackleton. She is the sister ship to the James Clark Ross on which I have spent all my previous time south. The biggest difference between the 2 ships is that the Shackleton tends to do more logistics work, with the JCR tending to do more science work.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/shack/3193375" title="Shack"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/375/3193375_b4f597c31c_m.jpeg" alt="Shack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I joined the Shackleton in the Falklands on the 19th January, then had a very pleasant week alongside in Stanley while gear was made ready, and the science team arrived for the current cruise. While we waiting, the RRS James Cook paid her first visit to the islands.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/james_cook/3193376" title="James Cook"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/376/3193376_c1b3a3d6fb_m.jpeg" alt="James Cook" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> We sailed from the Falklands last Friday, heading out for a 7 week science and logistics cruise. The cruise will be a real mix, with the logistics taking me to BAS's furthest south base at Halley, which is located on the ice shelf, deep in the Weddell Sea. We have also already made a flying visit to Signy, and will return later in the trip to close down the base for the winter and pick up all the base staff.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/signy/3193377" title="signy"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/377/3193377_e1002ec106_m.jpeg" alt="signy" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As for the science, it will be a real mixture. It has started well with lots of fun for me crunching through pack ice to find locations to deploy scientific instruments. We have managed 4 so far, but have lots more to deploy in various locations. We will also be heading out onto ice flows to tag Weddell seals and to collect ice cores. All in all it should be a really interesting and varied few weeks.</p> <p>In the mean time I will leave you with a selection of pictures taken over the last few days as we have headed through the pack ice, to our present position just of the ice shelf to the east of the base at Halley.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rainbow/3193378" title="Rainbow"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/378/3193378_714f10ab22_m.jpeg" alt="Rainbow" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/berg/3193379" title="berg"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/379/3193379_2c388a6641_m.jpeg" alt="berg" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/close_up/3193380" title="close up"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/380/3193380_c1d229b0bf_m.jpeg" alt="close up" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/conning_tower/3193381" title="conning tower"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/381/3193381_1a8ac4b276_m.jpeg" alt="conning tower" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunberg/3193382" title="Sunberg"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/382/3193382_51d646848d_m.jpeg" alt="Sunberg" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/01/back-to-the-antarctic-5483974/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>antarctichttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2009/02/01/back-to-the-antarctic-5483974/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/title-4725862/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-09-14:/2008/09/14/title-4725862/Sun, 14 Sep 2008 13:25:35 +0200 <p>An update at last. Sorry for the delay as I have been truely rubbish at keeping my blog upto date. My last post was in February, when I was down in the Southern Ocean. Since then it has been a very busy time, which included a few ups and downs. </p> <p>The end of my trip on the ship wasn't the best. I got glandular fever when the ship was still down in the ice off South Georgia, meaning that my last few weeks on the ship were spent in my cabin, feeling very ill and sorry for myself. </p> <p>I finally got off the ship in Ascension Island in early May. I had almost 2 days on the Island, and tried to see as much as possible even if I was feeling pretty awful. The highlight of the time was an evening trip to see a green turtle laying her eggs on the beach. I tried to take lots of pictures, but they all came out pretty blurred and useless. So instead you get Ruth, Sophie and Paul on one of the islands beautiful beaches.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ascension/2810793" title="ascension"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/793/2810793_4d1945d236_s.jpeg" alt="ascension" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Then it was back to the UK, for a few weeks of relaxing before heading out to Greece for a flotilla. It was a great week sailing round the Southern Ionian with my parents and their friends Keith and Lynette. All a bit wrong though as I was heading to bed early each night, leaving my parents partying till the early hours.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/flot1/2810212" title="flot1"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/212/2810212_b4781f37b7_s.jpeg" alt="flot1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The above photo was our first afternoon, introducing the new comers to the hardships involved in flotilla sailing.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/flot2/2810213" title="flot2"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/213/2810213_6f611a06d9_s.jpeg" alt="flot2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Everyone relaxing in the cockpit with their gin and tonics.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/flot3/2810214" title="flot3"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/214/2810214_c46e3c03a5_s.jpeg" alt="flot3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And our penultimate stop. </p> <p>After Greece I had a few more weeks in the UK trying to get back to full fitness, and sorting out a few job issues. To sum things up on the job front, in the last few months I have resigning, found a new job, retracting my resignation, and turned down the new job. All clear as mud? though so. </p> <p>Next stop was a long break in Spain which was a non stop steam of visitors. I won't bore you with the details, but here are a few pictures to sum up the summer.<br> The first visitors were Ed, Russel and Blair who did a fine mud demonstration.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/muded/2810215" title="muded"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/215/2810215_7ed7569ae1_s.jpeg" alt="muded" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Next is me and Ed at the water park.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ringed/2810216" title="ringed"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/216/2810216_8129594267_s.jpeg" alt="ringed" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>In mid August I celebrated my 30th birthday, and was joined by Sophie and Jeremy for the occasion. It was a great week, with Jeremy also celebrating his birthday on the same day. I took loads of photos on the evening of our birthdays which was spent at a hog roast, but they all seem blurred for some reason!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sophjez/2810217" title="sophjez"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/217/2810217_c10a6c3a7d_s.jpeg" alt="sophjez" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>And my final visitors of the summer were my parents. I can proudly report that after 3 years of nagging, Mum finally agreed to do the mud. Even better, she even seemed to enjoy it!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/mummud/2810218" title="mummud"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/218/2810218_89c8e8f36d_s.jpeg" alt="mummud" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>I am now back in the UK for a busy week catching up with people before going back to sea on the 22nd. And if you are still confused by the job situation...<br> I am going back to the British Antarctic Survey, but joining the Ernest Shackleton. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/title-4725862/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/title-4725862/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/27/a-bit-of-dry-land-3789749/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-02-27:/2008/02/27/a-bit-of-dry-land-3789749/Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:03:45 +0100 <p>After 6 weeks at sea, I finally got a chance to get off the ship for a brief walk ashore at King Edward Point (KEP) on South Georgia.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/jcr_kep/2372676" title="jcr kep"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/676/2372676_4c404c980f_s.jpeg" alt="jcr kep" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> KEP is one of the ships more frequent stopping points as we resupply the base, and transfer people to and from the island. As a result I have been lucky enough to get ashore on a number of occasions. This time it was a flying visit but still just long enough to head off and do battle with the local fur seals. They may look cute, but they are vicious little creatures.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/furry/2372677" title="furry"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/677/2372677_8803961a52_s.jpeg" alt="furry" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The next photo is taken looking back at the ship, with the abandonned Grytvikken whaling station in the background.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/kep/2372679" title="kep"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/679/2372679_b9705249da_s.jpeg" alt="kep" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And the final view of South Georgia is of a small group of King Penguins who were ashore to malt.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/kings/2372680" title="kings"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/680/2372680_c1e5a89c9a_s.jpeg" alt="kings" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> From South Georgia we made slow progress to the Falklands, due to the loss of one of our 2 propulsion motors. This made for a slightly late arrival in the Falklands, but after a full check over by a specialist who flew down from the UK, the motor was given the all clear, and normal service is now resumed.<br> The stop in the Falklands saw an almost complete crew change (with me been 1 of the 4 remaining from the last cruise), and gave me a brief chance to get off the ship and go for a much needed walk.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/gypsy_cove/2372712" title="gypsy cove"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/712/2372712_b7d74d8b4b_s.jpeg" alt="gypsy cove" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lady_liz/2372713" title="lady liz"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/713/2372713_4edc8841a6_s.jpeg" alt="lady liz" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And as its me, no walk can be complete without a beer and a stupid hat!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/jo_at_gypsy_cove/2372714" title="Jo_at_Gypsy_Cove"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/714/2372714_0439f0a264_s.jpeg" alt="Jo_at_Gypsy_Cove" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The stop in the Falklands also saw the demobilisation of the biological science cruise, and the mobilisation of the next batch of science staff. This time its a mix of geologists and a seperate group of biologists.<br> As I write we are heading into the deep south, with the aim of looking at glacial retreat in the Bellinghausen Sea. It should be an interesting cruise with plenty of ice to negotiate, and lots of different scientific gear to deploy for mud coring of the sea bed, and trawling. The down side is that we are heading so far south and west that we will be without any communications for the next few weeks. At last a legitimate reason to be lazy with my blog updates! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/27/a-bit-of-dry-land-3789749/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/27/a-bit-of-dry-land-3789749/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/15/south_georgia_sunrises~3733207/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-02-15:/2008/02/15/south_georgia_sunrises~3733207/Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:51:20 +0100 <p>The last 10 days have seen the ship working around the island of South Georgia. During this time there has been a real mix of great weather, and truely awful weather. In amongst it, there have been a few fantastic mornings, with great sunrises.</p> <p>The first picture was taken on a cloudy morning as we were carrying out a science station to the north of South Georgia.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunatsea/2342302" title="sunatsea"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/302/2342302_235924aa40_s.jpeg" alt="sunatsea" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>After completing the work to the north of the island we headed to Stromnes Harbour, which is home to one of the many abandonned whaling stations located on South Georgia. We spent a very pleasant night anchored in the harbour while the scientists carried out the calibration of their echo sounders. From my view point it was a lovely starry night, followed by a great sunrise.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/stromness/2342301" title="stromness"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/301/2342301_ce8b770fd0_s.jpeg" alt="stromness" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>We then headed slightly further offshore, and managed to find a few icebers for the next mornings sunrise.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunberg/2342303" title="sunberg"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/303/2342303_4723fcbaf7_s.jpeg" alt="sunberg" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>And the final picture was taken as we were anchored off King Edward Cove, on quite a blustery morning.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/kepsun/2342300" title="kepsun"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/300/2342300_ec5739bcea_s.jpeg" alt="kepsun" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>After a flying visit alongside at King Edward Point (plenty of seal and penguin photos to follow), we are now making steady progress back to Stanley. The plan is for the ship to arrive early sunday morning, at which point total hayhem will ensue, with a crew change happening at the same time as a complete change of scientific staff. Then its back to sea, and heading way south to the Bellinghausen Sea for a more geology focused cruise. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/15/south_georgia_sunrises~3733207/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/02/15/south_georgia_sunrises~3733207/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/26/southern_ocean~3637050/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-01-26:/2008/01/26/southern_ocean~3637050/Sat, 26 Jan 2008 22:41:02 +0100 <p>While I am away at sea I spend 8 hours each day driving the ship. This equals a lots of hours staring out of the windows, and gives a great chance to experience the Southern Ocean in all its moods.<br> The following pictures show just a small selection of the conditions experienced over the last week.<br> The first picture is probably the rarest view, as not only is the sea pretty calm, but the sun is also trying to make a very brief appearance.</p> <p class="center"><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunrise/2303090" title="sunrise"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/090/2303090_2e55ce9480_m.jpeg" alt="sunrise" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>The next view is one that I have seen quite a bit of over the last few days. At the time the picture was taken the wind was a force 9, or a severe gale in normal speak. Not particularly extreme by southern ocean standards, but definately enough to put a temporary stop to all science work.</p> <p class="center"><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/wave/2303091" title="wave"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/091/2303091_25c98e01cb_m.jpeg" alt="wave" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>My timing was slightly off, as a fraction of a second later the big green wall of water landed on the fore deck with pretty impressive force.</p> <p class="center"><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/fog/2303092" title="fog"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/092/2303092_5bff11da63_m.jpeg" alt="fog" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>And finally the most common view of the week, is the complete lack of view as we slowly creep through dence fog. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/26/southern_ocean~3637050/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/26/southern_ocean~3637050/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/15/south_orkneys~3582258/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-01-15:/2008/01/15/south_orkneys~3582258/Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:35:27 +0100 <p>This week has seen the ship working around the South Orkney Islands. The science cruise is going well, with my time on watch spent with a wide range of science kit either dangling over the ships side, or slowly towed behind us.<br> I also got to do my first bit of pack ice work for the season, as there were fairly dence concentrations of ice to both the north and south side of the islands.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog1/2279090" title="blog1"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/090/2279090_47dae72049_m.jpeg" alt="blog1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog2/2279091" title="blog2"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/091/2279091_a506c8b6b9_m.jpeg" alt="blog2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog3/2279092" title="blog3"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/092/2279092_4228013b10_m.jpeg" alt="blog3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog4/2279110" title="blog4"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/110/2279110_19e81186c1_m.jpeg" alt="blog4" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> We are now to the north of the South Orkneys, continuing with the science work, and slowly heading towards South Georgia. Hopefully the weather will hold, and there will be plenty more nice sunny afternoons. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/15/south_orkneys~3582258/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/15/south_orkneys~3582258/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/06/9_countries_in_9_days~3536687/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2008-01-06:/2008/01/06/9_countries_in_9_days~3536687/Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:45:45 +0100 <p>To say it was a hectic end to 2007 doesn't even come close. By the 29th December I had managed the impressive feat of visiting 9 countries in 9 days. The epic journey to join the ship took me to Madrid, Chile and finally the Falkland Islands. Needless to say, arriving as a very tired mess. Next time I make travel plans, I am going to make sure they include more than 4 nights in the UK. </p> <p>I am now back into the swing of things, and settling into my new promotion as 2nd officer on the RRS James Clark Ross. It is the ship that I have spent most of the last 5 years on, so it has been easy to settle back in.</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rrs_james_clark_ross/2259716" title="RRS James Clark Ross"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/716/2259716_c744876e82_m.jpeg" alt="RRS James Clark Ross" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>I am now onboard till early May, with a whole assortment of different science cruises to fill the time between now and then. We are currently just off the pack ice surrounding the South Orkney Islands, at the beginning of a 6 week biological science cruise. It should be a good cruise, no doubt improving as I manage to catch up on my sleep and feel human once again... </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/06/9_countries_in_9_days~3536687/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2008/01/06/9_countries_in_9_days~3536687/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/25/botswana_to_home~3488937/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-12-25:/2007/12/25/botswana_to_home~3488937/Tue, 25 Dec 2007 13:16:52 +0100 <p>From Etosha national park, we headed further east into rural Namibia. The modern world was left behind, with the Africa I had imagined beginning to emerge. Conventional buildings gave way to small family villages of mud huts.<br> We spent 2 nights staying close to the Angolan border, and had the opportunity to visit one of the villages and meet some of the locals.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/village/2234565" title="village"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/565/2234565_13061a4057_s.jpeg" alt="village" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After visiting the village we went to the local school, where a group of children, and one of the teachers had kindly given up part of their christmas holiday to come and meet us. The school recieves lots of funding from the lodge that we were staying in, and we also took along a selection of books, pens and paper to do our bit.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/school/2234559" title="school"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/559/2234559_b3186fde66_s.jpeg" alt="school" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> From the school we headed to the church where even more children were gathered to sing for us. The sense of community spirit was amazing, and it was a great experience to have the chance to see how the people live. </p> <p>Our next stop took us across another border, this time heading into Botswana, and the Okavango delta. We left the truck behind us, and took to the water with a minimum of gear for a few days of roughing it.<br> Our main form of transport were traditional Makoros (dug out canoes). Each boat took 2 people, plus a local poler to guide us.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/mocorra/2234557" title="mocorra"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/557/2234557_c7b4f9555c_s.jpeg" alt="mocorra" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After a great journey into the middle of nowhere we arrived at a deserted island, and pitched our tents for some real bush camping. It was then back to the boats for a hippo hunt. We certainly weren't dissapointed, with 3 hippos arriving to give us a show.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/wet_hippo/2234566" title="wet hippo"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/566/2234566_b3517d6ef1_s.jpeg" alt="wet hippo" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dry_hippo/2234551" title="dry hippo"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/551/2234551_67856b1c14_s.jpeg" alt="dry hippo" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After roughing it, we headed back to the real world, managing to see a few crocodiles enroute.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/croc/2234550" title="croc"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/550/2234550_d8b838b24d_s.jpeg" alt="croc" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>After rejoining the truck we had a hectic day of border crossings, heading from Botswana back to Namibia, then back to Botswana again. Needless to say my passport is filling up pretty quickly.<br> The next day saw our final border crossing, taking us to our final destination of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/vic/2234564" title="vic"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/564/2234564_fc8e677bcf_s.jpeg" alt="vic" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After seeing the falls close up, I then took to the air for a helicopter flight over the falls.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/falls/2234553" title="falls"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/553/2234553_39718d1d79_s.jpeg" alt="falls" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I also took the opportunity to get up close to some of the wildlife, going on an elephant ride, and a conservation project to walk with lions.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ele_ride/2234552" title="ele ride"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/552/2234552_48f0f9e8e7_s.jpeg" alt="ele ride" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lion/2234555" title="lion"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/555/2234555_5572761c91_s.jpeg" alt="lion" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lion2/2234556" title="lion2"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/556/2234556_6227cbda4e_s.jpeg" alt="lion2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Seeing these amazing animals up close was a great way to end the trip. The trip was a great way to see Africa, and I have had brilliant few weeks. Namibia was the unexpected highlight, and a country I will definately revisit. </p> <p>I am now back at home after a very long flight via Munich. The shock to the system of arriving to heavy frost and -7degrees wasn't pleasant. But the flight was definately worth it for the chance to spend Christmas at home. I am back to sea again on Thursday, so a very brief visit to the real world.</p> <p>Merry Christmas. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/25/botswana_to_home~3488937/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/25/botswana_to_home~3488937/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/etosha_national_park~3485686/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-12-24:/2007/12/24/etosha_national_park~3485686/Mon, 24 Dec 2007 11:11:41 +0100 <p>Our arrival in Etosha gave the chance to view some of Africas game animals, and a few of the big five. Words really can't do the place justice, so I will let the pictures do the talking, for what was a fantastic 2 days of game driving, and animal spotting.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/giraffe/2233063" title="giraffe"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/063/2233063_59e3936304_m.jpeg" alt="giraffe" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/water_hole/2233064" title="water hole"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/064/2233064_e170c340da_m.jpeg" alt="water hole" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rhino/2233066" title="rhino"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/066/2233066_4992d3ecc8_m.jpeg" alt="rhino" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/elephant/2233060" title="elephant"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/060/2233060_4e3e7c80db_m.jpeg" alt="elephant" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/water_hole_2/2233065" title="water hole 2"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/065/2233065_f73154d28a_m.jpeg" alt="water hole 2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/lion/2233067" title="lion"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/067/2233067_1324b5eca4_m.jpeg" alt="lion" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sunset/2233068" title="sunset"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/068/2233068_acce47a2e8_m.jpeg" alt="sunset" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/night/2233069" title="night"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/069/2233069_22bdf41550_m.jpeg" alt="night" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/etosha_national_park~3485686/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/etosha_national_park~3485686/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/namibia~3485651/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-12-24:/2007/12/24/namibia~3485651/Mon, 24 Dec 2007 11:03:15 +0100 <p>Before heading to the coast we had a bit more desert to cross, offering more stunning views.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dune/2233054" title="dune"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/054/2233054_f31916ceb9_s.jpeg" alt="dune" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> But just to show that the desert isn't all barren. This was the sight that greated us as we arrived at our next campsite in the middle of the wilderness.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/swim/2233053" title="swim"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/053/2233053_cbfc014ec5_s.jpeg" alt="swim" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> If only all deserts had conveniently located swimming pools and bars.</p> <p>After temporarily leaving the desert behind we headed to the coast, and Nambias adventure capital 'Swakopmund'. This gave a nice 2 day break from the truck, and the opportunity to try out some of the more unique activities that the area offers. I opted for a morning of quad biking through the dunes, and sand boarding. The quad biking was great, as you an really go for it, flying full speed up a dune, the spinning round at the last moment for a very rapid decent.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/quad/2233070" title="quad"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/070/2233070_16a984cba8_s.jpeg" alt="quad" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The sand boarding was just as exhilirating, flying face first down a dune at upto 80km/h. My techinque on the first run left a bit to be desired, as demonstrated by the fact that I managed to remove the skin from my elbow.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/sand/2233051" title="sand"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/051/2233051_1de82115e5_s.jpeg" alt="sand" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> From Swakopmund it was back inland, with a visit to the a small out post of the Himba tribe. The Himba are one of the older African tribes, who still practice the traditional way of life. The children were great fun, all wanting to be picked up and play. It was a very interesting visit, however it felt really awkward invading these peoples world.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/jon_himba/2233052" title="jon & himba"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/052/2233052_ad0f73c33d_s.jpeg" alt="jon & himba" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It was then back to the truck, and heading further inland. There were plenty of chances to stop and see some of Africas sites. First off was an impressively shaped termite mound.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ants/2233059" title="ants"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/059/2233059_727d6230fe_s.jpeg" alt="ants" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Not sure why I have such a big smile?<br> Then there was a chance for a bit of road side shopping, with an assortment of stalls run by local women selling dolls, precious stones, and an assortment of other crafts.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dolls/2233058" title="dolls"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/058/2233058_4579750006_s.jpeg" alt="dolls" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Then we reached our next stop, at Spitskope, or 'The Matterhorn of Namibia'. The contrast from the desert was amazing, with fantastic rock formations all around.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/push/2233057" title="push"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/057/2233057_f73e1b03e7_s.jpeg" alt="push" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The stop also gave us the chance to ditch the tent for a night, and make use of a handy cave.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/cave/2233055" title="cave"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/055/2233055_d7ded2237e_s.jpeg" alt="cave" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> All very cozy, and a great experience.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/rock/2233056" title="rock"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/056/2233056_7c03c52c7c_s.jpeg" alt="rock" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After a chance to climb the rocks and view some rock art it was time to move on once again, this time heading towards the national park at Etosha. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/namibia~3485651/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/24/namibia~3485651/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/07/cape_town_to_namibia~3409605/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-12-07:/2007/12/07/cape_town_to_namibia~3409605/Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:20:48 +0100 <p>The last 3 weeks have taken me from crossing equator on a ship, to crossing the Tropic of Capricorn in an overland truck. To say its been a busy time, doesn't even come close.<br> The rest of the trip south on the ship, was uneventful apart from a bit of bumpy weather. We then arrived into Cape Town and the fun began. I spent the first 2 nights on the ship, managing to see a bit of the waterfront, and having a nice final meal with some of the crew. Then it was a very early start to join an overland trip which will take me through Namibia and Botswana, finishing in Victoria Falls.<br> The trip began quite uneventfully, meeting the other 22 people who I will be sharing the next 3 weeks with, before heading off for a good view of table mountain.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/table/2198083" title="table"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/083/2198083_f564e4f20d_s.jpg" alt="table" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It was then a 3 hour drive inland to our camp for the first night. We were just starting to pitch our tents when my phone started ringing and disaster struck. It the ship with some unexpected news that there had been a mistake and I was technically not supposed to be in South Africa. After lots of phone calls to the tour company, and the ships agent it was eventually decided that the only option was for me to return to Cape Town to clear immigration. So my first night on leave was spent on a 4 hour round trip to Cape Town. Not exactly the relaxing evening getting to know everyone round the camp fire I had imagined.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/camp/2198077" title="camp"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/077/2198077_f40c0cfabb_s.jpg" alt="camp" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After returning to the camp just before midnight, it was then an early start to head north to the Orange River, for our 2nd night. This time there was the chance to finally relax, and swim in the river that separates South Africa from Namibia.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/orange/2198081" title="orange"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/081/2198081_0f9a9a6046_s.jpg" alt="orange" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> With immigration all sorted, the next day we had our first of many border crossing, as we headed to Namibia.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/namib/2198080" title="namib"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/080/2198080_2d81f39c54_s.jpg" alt="namib" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The landscape began to change almost immediately as we headed through canyons towards desert country.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/desert1/2198078" title="desert1"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/078/2198078_950177c333_s.jpg" alt="desert1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The next photo was taken as the entire group gathered on the roof of the truck to watch a spectacular sunset over a canyon. It was a great sight, and even better as the truck has plenty of beer storage.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/truck/2198082" title="truck"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/082/2198082_c6b9d17afb_s.jpg" alt="truck" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After a late night, the next morning was ridiculously early with a 0430 wake up to ensure we saw the sunrise over the dunes. Despite the early start it was more than worth it. Words really can't describe the sight of the dunes in the early dawn.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/desert2/2198079" title="desert2"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/079/2198079_142e87d563_s.jpg" alt="desert2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> We have now temporarily left the desert behind, and have begun to see more wildlife, including my first glimpse of Zebra.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/zebra/2198084" title="zebra"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/084/2198084_350546436c_s.jpg" alt="zebra" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I could go on for ages, but I will leave it there for now. Hopefully by the next time I reach the civilised world of internet cafes I will have seen a few of the big 5! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/07/cape_town_to_namibia~3409605/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/12/07/cape_town_to_namibia~3409605/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/19/crossing_the_line~3320972/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-11-19:/2007/11/19/crossing_the_line~3320972/Mon, 19 Nov 2007 18:20:41 +0100 <p>The voyage to Cape Town continues to go well, with this week seeing the ship crossing from the Northern to Southern hemispheres. In true merchant navy tradition the occasion was marked in spectacular style with a visit from King Neptune and his court.<br> For anyone unfamiliar with these bizarre seafaring rituals, it is tradition for anyone who has not crossed the equator before to be tried, and pay their respects to nepture. He in turn grants safe passage. The slight twist this time round was that Neptune and his court didn't seem entirely satisfied with my credentials, so it was deemed that I would be tried along with everyone else.<br> So at the appointed hour I joined the doctor and 2 cadets, and we barracaded ourselves onto the deck in front of the bridge. Never to be unprepared we went equipped with water bombs full of weird and wonderful gunge, and of course plenty of beer and wine.<br> While we were preparing our ammunition, King Neptune was arriving onboard to be welcomed by the Captain.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog7/2156993" title="blog7"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/993/2156993_ea63407447_s.jpeg" alt="blog7" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Once the welcoming ceremony was over the battle commenced. We put up a good fight, but were finally beaten into submission by battons, and high pressure fire hoses. Once captured we were all led aft to stand trial by neptunes court.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog6/2156992" title="blog6"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/992/2156992_e3cbc1d376_s.jpeg" alt="blog6" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> I was first to face trial, so I took up my position at the feet of the King and Queen. Then following proper procedure I kissed a kipper attached to the queens foot. Then the charges were read to the court.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog5/2156991" title="blog5"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/991/2156991_818fd45a64_s.jpeg" alt="blog5" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As far as charges go I got off quite lightly, so to save any further bruising from the batton wielding police I put in a guilty plea. My punishment was then issued in the form of mouth burning medicine and a good coating of slops.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog4/2156990" title="blog4"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/990/2156990_dfe9ec98a5_s.jpeg" alt="blog4" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> When all the guilty had been found, beaten and punished the decks were quickly cleared and the BBQ started. All in all a brilliant day, and great to see that the old traditions are still well and truely alive. I just hope that this will be the last time I am one of the victims!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog2/2156989" title="blog2"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/989/2156989_04f2462f72_s.jpeg" alt="blog2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/19/crossing_the_line~3320972/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/19/crossing_the_line~3320972/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/back_to_sea~3270041/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-11-09:/2007/11/09/back_to_sea~3270041/Fri, 09 Nov 2007 14:19:04 +0100 <p>In the middle of September I returned from another trip to Spain, and then it was back to sea. I joined the RRS Ernest Shackleton in Immingham in the middle of September. It is the first time I have sailed on the shackleton, so it has been an interesting time getting to know a new group of people and a different ship.<br> Back to sea is pushing the description a bit far, as after 36 hours of leaving Immingahm, we had sailed to Portsmouth, where the ship was dry docked for 7 weeks.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/drydock/2130101" title="drydock"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/101/2130101_d9be527b7f_s.jpeg" alt="drydock" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The dry dock was used to get the underside of the ship cleaned and painted, and to carry out maintainence that isn't possible at sea.<br> I got an unexpected reprieve after 3 weeks, with a phone call giving me 2 weeks extra leave. I made a rapid escape and headed straight back to Spain for some October sunshine. The 2 weeks aren't quite as generous as it may seem, as the trade in will be joining my regular ship 7 weeks early at the end of the year.<br> I rejoined the ship back in Immingham, where after 5 days of loading cargo we finally sailed. We had the RAF come out to play shortly after leaving port, using our aft deck to drop a winch man for training.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/chopper/2130100" title="chopper"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/100/2130100_a5206f8504_s.jpeg" alt="chopper" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> As I write this we are somewhere off the coast of Portugal, making good progress to Cape Town.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/shack/2130104" title="shack"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/104/2130104_fd6ddef869_s.jpeg" alt="shack" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The weather is excellent, with calm seas and sunshine. By current plans we will be in Cape Town by the end of the month, where I will leave the ship, and head inland for a 3 week holiday round Southern Africa. I can't wait, and hopefully there will be plenty of good pictures to follow.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/back_to_sea~3270041/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/back_to_sea~3270041/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/the_missing_months~3269967/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-11-09:/2007/11/09/the_missing_months~3269967/Fri, 09 Nov 2007 14:03:06 +0100 <p>Ok, so I said that I would keep the blog running and surprise, surprise it is now over 6 months since my last post, so many apologies. But better late than never.</p> <p>So what have I been upto since I returned from down under? </p> <p>Its been a pretty hectic year. After returning from my travels, I managed to squeeze in a quick holiday to spain, where I was joined by my elder sister (Sarah) and nephew (Dylan). It was Dylans first foreign holiday, and apart from the rain he seemed to enjoy himself.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/beach/2131791" title="beach"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/791/2131791_614927bdb0_s.jpeg" alt="beach" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> After that it was back to college in Warsash for 16 weeks, studying for my Chief Officers ticket (the next level of driving licence up in the shipping world). The course was tough, and the 4 months just vanished into long hours full of work, and very little time for anything else.<br> The end finally came, and by early August all the exams were done, and much to my relief passed. I now never have to sit another written exam for the remainder of my career.<br> Since then I have squeezed a few more trips to Spain in. The following pictures give some idea of the area where I live over there.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/house/2130102" title="house"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/102/2130102_c24c26917b_s.jpeg" alt="house" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The one and only time my poor MG will ever see the house, as the MG is no more.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/windmill/2130106" title="windmill"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/106/2130106_906a95178c_s.jpeg" alt="windmill" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/mud/2130103" title="mud"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/103/2130103_35328b2fd3_s.jpeg" alt="mud" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> One of the areas main attractions are the local mud baths. All free, and increadibly smelly.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/swim/2130105" title="swim"><img src="http://data3.blog.de/media/105/2130105_73fa4ce0d4_s.jpeg" alt="swim" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> My nephew Dylan having his first experience of swimming</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/the_missing_months~3269967/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/11/09/the_missing_months~3269967/#commentshttp://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/04/03/sydney_hong_kong_cheswick_green~2023726/tag:jolcox.blog.co.uk,2007-04-03:/2007/04/03/sydney_hong_kong_cheswick_green~2023726/Tue, 03 Apr 2007 07:07:06 +0200 <p>Alas the end has come. I am writing this from back in the UK at the horrendous time of 5am, thanks to jetlag. Its a time of day I have heard about before, but I never thought I would ever see it. And definately never thought I would ever see it, and be awake enough to get out of bed and do anything.<br> So the homeward leg. What can I say, apart from fantastic. Ok, you all know that I am going to say way more and bore you all stupid, so here goes.</p> <p>Sydney really is a great city, and I did all sorts. First up was a bike tour of the city.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297813" title="IMGP2573"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/813/1297813_b1d834b82b_s.jpg" alt="IMGP2573" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It was a great way to see the city, and not just because it included a pub stop. It was also a real eye opener to the efficiency of their public transport, that you can safely and easily cycle around the city.<br> Next came the bridge climb. It was really good fun, and gave amazing views of the city. It helped that it was a perfectly clear sunny day.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297832" title="bridge"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/832/1297832_84db5be54e_s.jpg" alt="bridge" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Just a shame about the outfit!<br> I also had some really nice evenings out, with a great final night.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297834" title="blog1"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/834/1297834_6bf433544a_s.jpg" alt="blog1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Enough words for Sydney, so here are a few more pictures of the harbour.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297835" title="blog 2"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/835/1297835_16b8af65c2_s.jpg" alt="blog 2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297836" title="blog3"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/836/1297836_529ea90b1a_s.jpg" alt="blog3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297838" title="blog 4"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/838/1297838_cf4819f8f6_m.jpg" alt="blog 4" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> It was then 13 hours of flying via Auckland, before arriving at my next stop on the list; Hong Kong.<br> It was such a contrast to everywhere else I had been, and quite hard work after the relaxed pace in NZ and Oz. That said it was a good way to spend the final few days, and as usual I made the most of my time and saw and did loads. Appologies for the grey pictures. As far as I can tell Hong Kong is surrounded in a constant haze of pollution.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297854" title="blog1"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/854/1297854_3b180c6b16_s.jpg" alt="blog1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The view across the harbour from a Star ferry.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297855" title="blog2"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/855/1297855_67f6279a50_s.jpg" alt="blog2" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The peak tram, where I took the easy option of the tram up, and a nice down hill walk back to town.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297856" title="blog3"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/856/1297856_10dbb3172d_s.jpg" alt="blog3" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> Some colour in the sea of grey.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297857" title="blog4"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/857/1297857_7d4c41b6a0_s.jpg" alt="blog4" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> The cultural bit, with a visit to a budist temple on Lantau.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297858" title="blog5"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/858/1297858_c9c01d57d4_s.jpg" alt="blog5" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=1297859" title="blog6"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/859/1297859_6806d4f1c7_s.jpg" alt="blog6" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><br> And now the trip is at an end. It has been a fantastic 2 months, and I can hand on heart say that I have loved every minute of it. The places I have seen, and the people I have met along the way have been excellent. In true Jo style this visit to the UK will be less than 48 hours, as my next job is to pack a bag ready to fly to Spain in a few hours time. I am in serious need of a holiday!</p> <p>The end of the trip doesn't mean the end of the blog, so please check back for Spain and Antarctic entries, and thanks for reading.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/04/03/sydney_hong_kong_cheswick_green~2023726/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://jolcox.blog.co.uk/2007/04/03/sydney_hong_kong_cheswick_green~2023726/#comments