NYFW!!

The Maury went to New York Fleet Week in May and it was a blast! What’s better than sailing into New York in a Parade of Ships?! The view was spectacular. It was the first time the ship went to Staten Island – a new part of New York I hadn’t yet seen. For the most part, the Island is pretty quiet. If you want something a bit more “happening” Manhattan is just a short ride on the Staten Island Ferry away. The Navy is actually a big part of City’s history, and during Fleet Week it really showed. The Week started out with the Parade of Ships at 0530. Nothing quite like starting your watch with thick fog and a closing distance of less than 1 nautical mile. In shipping that is very close, especially when you can’t see out of the window. By the time we were passing under The Verrazano, luckily, the skies had cleared and we truly got to see The Big Apple. The Parade included active duty Naval warships, Coast Guard Cutters, a Canadian Naval Vessel, and two Merchant ships.

As we began planning for Fleet Week, I was excited to get the chance to share the Merchant Marine to people who might not otherwise know what we do. The Merchant Marine seldom gets recognition, but with being the newest ship in the T-AGS Fleet, the Maury gets alot of visitors. Between school field trips and weekend spectators, we had over 3,500 visitors tour our ship. Many were truly impressed and appreciative of the work we do. The life we have embarked upon as sailors is both bold and courageous, with long hours, and longer days. During touring hours, I stood on the Bridge to explain the specifications of the new Bridge steering console as well the steering characteristic of the vessel. The kids had a lot of fun, and I got to see their eyes light up as I shared our world with them. I won’t go so far as to say that they will take up the life of sailing, but they were introduced into the idea of a life of adventure. Sure many girls said, “Girl Power!” once they discovered that I actually drive the ship for a living. Seeing an average woman sailing might have broadened their horizons for what they think they can achieve themselves. To be honest, I hadn’t put much thought into how my presence as a woman would affect those who came to the ship. To me, I am just the Third Mate, and part of the crew, doing my part to complete the mission. I will never forget when this sweet six year old girl came up to me after the tour and asked to take a picture with me. It put the week into perspective for me, and made me even more appreciative of the experience. In the end, the Maury achieved what we set out to do: display the new ship, afterall we do have a Moon Pool!, and share the Naval Oceanographic Office charting mission.

Of course being in New York was a great chance to catch up with friends and have fun! My long time friend, Shayna, finally got to see my ship. I even got to squeeze in brunch with my old college roommate, Megan. I got to see the view from the Staten Island Ferry, partake in great food, and walk through the streets taking in the City on more time.