Life on a Ship

Life on the MV Explorer is very unique.

It presents some challenges that I had never considered. For example, obviously the ship is constantly rocking and vibrating when we are at sea. I never realized how much that might affect me. I had thought of seasickness, which I experienced only briefly before I adjusted, but I never considered the other challenges it posed. Walking straight has never been so difficult and showering can be interesting, if the waves are big enough. The constant rocking is great for trying to sleep, but also makes it difficult to stay awake for long lectures. Mostly, though, these little difficulties just make day-to-day life more interesting.

Besides there are so many perks. I have the most amazing view all the time. I get to sit on the deck in the sun and watch the waves as I study. I get to see the most beautiful sunsets. I get to eat with professors, of my classes and others, and lifelong learners, non-students on the voyage. The dinner conversation is never boring since I’m always eating with someone new. Communication with family and friends back home is limited, to put it nicely, so we are becoming a pretty close community here on the ship. Overall, it’s a wonderful experience and none of us can wait to see what new experiences and amazing conversations we’ll have next.