Overnight Suggestions

During the evening Dog Watch, crews muster on the quarter deck Here are some suggestions to enhance this Dog Watch time:

• Have a few parents write letters to their children as if it were the year 1492. These should be secretly delivered to the group leader. Imagine the amazement of the sailors when the officer reads to them their parents' letter telling of life back in Spain! Remind the sailors that they have been away from home for a year when they receive their letters. They can be comical (written by an abandoned spouse or loved one, the sailor's dog, etc.) but should attempt to recreate the news and atmosphere of the time.
  
  

• Facts for letter-writers to remember:

  • No one has a good idea of why these sailors have undertaken this voyage.

  • Women are not aboard this vessel.

  • The Roman Catholic Church governs all aspects of these sailors’ lives. In fact, all Jews and Moors (Muslims) have just been evicted from Spain.

  • Ferdinand and Isabella, the King and Queen, have just united Iberia (Spain) for the first time. They want and need the trade from the East Indies.
    
    

• Sailors can entertain the remaining crew. Frequently, time is available after dinner for the crew to practice or prepare skit, song, dance, or other entertainment, but it helps if they have worked on something ahead of time. Leaders, tell the officer if you have prepared any material.
  
  

• Some crews like to prepare their own ensign, or flag, to be raised and lowered along with the Captain's personal ensign while at sea.
  
  

• A limited number of colorful embroidered patches are available for purchase after the program. The cost is $2 each. Please inform the staff if you want to purchase patches. Purchase with check or cash.

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