FOLLOW THE VOYAGE - TS KENNEDY

Monday, February 3, 2014

FTV February 3


We are moored in Bridgetown, Barbados and the weather is perfect, with hot temperatures but a refreshing easterly breeze. We’ll be here until Tuesday morning. We are moored at a cargo dock called the Flour Mill Dock, because there are large sugar and grain silos on the dock, as well as an unloading chute.

Bridgetown derived its name from the bridge that was constructed in the area by the original Amerindian settlers. The island was settled by the English in the 17th century and early records refer to the area as The Indian Bridge and The Indian Bridgetown. It became a key hub for trade and commerce with its harbor (or Careenage) often filled with trading vessels. This city was also often the first port of call for ships making the trans-Atlantic crossing from Africa.

The Cadets can sightsee along the Bridgetown Boardwalk (officially called the Wickham Lewis Boardwalk) runs east-west along the waterfront through the capital city of Bridgetown.


At the western end of the Bridgetown Boardwalk is a small park which celebrates Barbados' maritime heritage complete with cannon and posters showing interesting facts about Barbados pirates!

As you stroll along the boardwalk you can see the many sailing vessels docked in the careenage (when not at sea!) including yachts, charter fishing boats, catamarans and the famous Jolly Roger pirate ship! Benches are conveniently located along the Bridgetown Boardwalk and these are a great place to enjoy the view as you watch the boats heading in and out. The sunset views are also quite spectacular!

  At the eastern end of the Boardwalk is a lift bridge called the Chamberlain Bridge that permits entry into the inner basin of the Careenage. The bridge also leads into Independence Square, a park that serves as a quiet oasis in the bustling capital city.


Opposite the boardwalk is the beautifully restored Old Spirit Bond Mall. The building dates back to the 18th century when it was used as a warehouse for rum and other spirits (hence the name Spirit Bond). It was strategically positioned next to the careenage where trading vessels would dock to offload their cargo and to collect rum, molasses and sugar to transport back to Europe and North America. The building has been fully restored; retaining the original brick walls of the building, and boasts an inviting old world charm. It is now home to a number of small shops and is well worth a stop on your visit to Bridgetown.

Want to take a  virtual tour of Bridgetown, this when you click on this map it will show you pictures of all the sights to see.


Math Monday:

The activities that the cadets are enjoying involve using math skills:
Before you can go on a dive, you and your partner must do some measurements to find out what size wetsuit, mask, boots, fins, and buoyancy control device (BCD) you will need.





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