journey on sea

11 of History’s Most Famous Sea Voyages

By julie fogerson | mar 11, 2022.

Throughout history, sea travel in the name of exploration, trade, and research has provided a watery road to modern globalism. We have always wondered at the waves, finding ways to wade deeper and wander further: The world’s oldest known boat, the Pesse canoe , dates to around 8000 BCE; there is evidence Egyptians began sailing around 4000 BCE ; and the Phoenicians are credited with ship-building expertise that allowed them to circumnavigate Africa in 600 BCE. Here are 11 incredible sea voyages and voyagers that helped advance our understanding of the world.

1. Leif Erikson’s Voyage to North America // c. 1000

Born in 970, Norse explorer Leif Erikson was the second son of Erik the Red , a native of Iceland who colonized Greenland around 980. According to Viking sagas written a few centuries after the events, Erikson heard about an unfamiliar land to the west of Greenland and went to investigate it, eventually landing with a small crew on the northern peninsula of Newfoundland. Though the settlement didn't last long, archaeological evidence and the sagas suggest that Erikson’s Vikings were the first Europeans to set foot in North America .

2. Zheng He’s Seven Diplomatic Voyages // 1405-1433

Beginning life as Ma Sanbao in 1371, Zheng He grew up in a prosperous Muslim family in China. When he was about 10, he was captured during Emperor Hong Wu’s attack on his city and made to serve as a court eunuch. He eventually rose up the ranks, becoming a valued diplomat and commander of the Ming Dynasty’s navy. He embarked on his first voyage in 1405 , commanding the emperor’s enormous fleet of “treasure ships.” Some of the hundreds of vessels were 400 feet in length, and the whole armada was crewed by 28,000 sailors. During his seven expeditions to lands surrounding the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, Zheng He helped spread China’s culture and political influence. Chinese emigration increased, as did tributes to Chinese leaders . Upon Zheng He’s death in 1433, and the establishment of a new emperor, the expeditions’ ships and logs were destroyed. This ended the “golden era” of Chinese sea exploration, making room for Europeans .

3. Ferdinand Magellan’s Circumnavigation of the Globe // 1519-1522

Portuguese sailor Ferdinand Magellan’s voyage is credited with being first to circumnavigate the globe. In 1519, approximately 260 men and five ships set sail from Spain, searching for a western route to the Spice Islands (in modern-day Indonesia). Magellan named the Pacific Ocean ( Pacific means “peaceful”) and discovered the Strait of Magellan at the bottom of South America by accident (it's still used to this day for navigation between the Atlantic and Pacific). While Magellan deserves his due for masterminding the voyage, a poison arrow ended him in 1521 upon his arrival in the Philippines. According to some historians, Enrique , an enslaved Malay man in Magellan’s crew, completed the circumnavigation first, albeit over more than one voyage, before Magellan’s remaining 18 crewmembers made it back to Spain in 1522.

4. “Pirate Queen” Grace O’Malley’s Defense of Ireland // c. 1546-1586

Irish seafarer Gráinne Ní Mháille, a.k.a. Grace O’Malley, a.k.a. Ireland’s pirate queen, is considered one of the last Irish clan rulers to fight against English domination in Ireland. Born in 1530, Grace began her high-stakes, high seas career at age 11, when Ireland was ruled by about 40 Gaelic clans (the O’Malley clan motto was “powerful by land and by sea”). When her father died, it was Grace and not her elder brother who became clan leader, managing two galleys, 20 ships, and more than 200 men to plunder coastal strongholds and defend against English encroachment. When Grace negotiated the release of prisoners and seized land with Queen Elizabeth I, she demanded an audience as an equal . A respected matriarch in her time, she was omitted from history for centuries. Today, she is celebrated for her leadership at sea.

5. The Sea Venture’s Adventure // 1609-1610

The Sea Venture has been dubbed “ the shipwreck that saved Jamestown ” and inspired William Shakespeare while he wrote The Tempest . The ship, part of a convoy sent from England in 1609, was supposed to resupply the desperate Virginia colony . But when it sailed straight into a hurricane and rammed a reef around then-uninhabited Bermuda, the Sea Venture ’s adventure appeared to be over. However, all 150 souls aboard survived by swimming to shore and set about building two new ships to take them the rest of the way. The castaways arrived in Jamestown about 10 months later. Their story of survival not only restored England’s desire to make its American colony a success; it also led to the second English colony established in the Americas—not in New England, but in Bermuda.

6. The Mayflower’s Arrival in North America // 1620

The Mayflower , a second-hand merchant ship carrying 102 passengers, left Plymouth, England, for North America in 1620. Forty of the passengers were Protestant separatists (later known as Pilgrims) who sought to establish a colony in America where they could practice their religion freely. They had permission to settle anywhere on the coast between the Chesapeake Bay and New York Harbor. But two miserable months after launch, the Mayflower landed in New England, about one degree of latitude north of where it was meant to be. The colonists named the new settlement Plymouth, drafted a document to set guidelines for self-governance, and launched a historic experiment in democracy and religious freedom.

7. The Three Voyages of James Cook // 1768-1780

James Cook vowed to sail “ as far as I think it possible for man to go ” and ended up mapping more territory than any other mariner of his era. He joined the British Royal Navy in his twenties, and in 1767 produced a chart of Newfoundland that was so accurate it was still being used in the 20th century . Cook led his first exploratory expedition in 1768, destined for the South Pacific to observe the transit of Venus and to chart New Zealand, Tasmania, and parts of Australia. He came quite close to spotting Antarctica during a second circumnavigation to explore and map several South Pacific islands. In 1776, on his third and last epic voyage, Cook came within 50 miles of the western entrance to the Northwest Passage in the Bering Strait. He was the first European commander to visit Hawaii, where friction increased between his crew and the local people; Cook was killed by Native Hawaiians in 1779 and the expedition concluded without him the following year. Among his countless observations and discoveries, Cook found that fresh fruits seemed to prevent scurvy , without knowing just how the remedy worked.

8. The Wreck of the Whaler Essex // 1820

Another voyage serving up literary inspiration is the tale of the Essex . An 87-foot whaling ship, the Essex was built of incredibly strong white oak and fitted for a 2.5-year voyage. It left Nantucket in 1819, made its way around Cape Horn, and headed into the South Pacific. On November 20, 1820, an 85-foot sperm whale rammed the ship twice and caused it to sink, serving some small measure of justice on behalf of his species (numbering 300,000 today from an estimated 1.1 million prior to whaling). While the 20 crewmembers initially survived, they drifted in boats across the open ocean for three months and eventually resorted to cannibalism. Only eight made it home . Herman Melville based the climactic scene in Moby-Dick on the Essex tragedy.

9. Charles Darwin’s Voyage on the HMS Beagle // 1831-1836

Charles Darwin said his education “ really began aboard the Beagle .” A fresh university graduate at age 22, Darwin paused his planned career as a clergyman and joined the Beagle as its naturalist. Setting sail in 1831, the ship’s mission was to journey around the world, surveying the South American coast and conducting chronometric studies. Time spent in the Galápagos truly informed Darwin’s theories on evolution, providing an opportunity to observe species development in an isolated environment. Darwin also considered coral, recording geological observations about islands and coastlines . And the Beagle , commanded by Lieutenant Robert FitzRoy, achieved its goal of accurately charting the coast of South America, including the Strait of Magellan's dangerous shoals.

10. Ernest Shackleton’s Miraculous Endurance // 1914-1916

Anglo-Irish mariner Ernest Shackleton first sailed to Antarctica in 1901 on a mission to reach the South Pole, which ended with a bad case of scurvy. He would come within 97 nautical miles of the pole on his second expedition. But it was his third venture aboard the Endurance for which he is most famous. In 1914, he led a crew of 28 men intending to be the first to cross Antarctica by land, but the ship became trapped in pack ice for 10 months and sank on November 21, 1915. The crew set up camp on ice floes, drifted on treacherous seas, and washed up on an uninhabited polar island. Shackleton and five men then sailed 800 miles across the planet’s most rambunctious seas for rescue. All hands succeeded in their revised mission: survival . Shackleton’s story serves as a lesson in leadership against all odds and overcoming outrageous obstacles.

11. Thor Heyerdahl’s Maritime Experiment in the Kon-Tiki and More // 1947-1978

Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian ethnologist, mounted several transoceanic scientific expeditions . His expeditions on the Kon-Tiki, a balsa-wood raft launched in 1947, and Ra , a copy of an Egyptian reed boat crewed in 1969, proved the possibility of ancient contact between distant civilizations. Leaving from Peru, Kon-Tiki reached the South Pacific three and a half months later, lending evidence to the theory that pre-Columbian sailors could have navigated across the Pacific. Ra sailed from Morocco to within 600 miles of Central America and hinted at the possibility that Egyptian mariners could have influenced pre-contact cultures. And in 1977-1978, sailing a reed boat named the Tigris , Heyerdahl suggested that ancient Sumerians could well have reached southwest Asia. His thought-provoking theories are still being debated.

The Ultimate Guide to Travel by Boat: Explore the World by Sea in 2023

As I set sail on the vast blue expanse of the ocean, I can’t help but feel a sense of liberation and adventure. Traveling by boat is unlike any other form of transportation; it offers a freedom that cannot be found on land or in the air.

In this ultimate guide to travel by boat, I will take you through the enchanting world of sea travel.

From luxurious cruise ships to humble cargo vessels, we will explore the different options available for boat travel. Discover the joy of cruising as we unveil the wonders of life onboard these floating cities. Venture off the beaten path and explore unique ports on thrilling boat tours .

But it’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the experiences along the way. Learn what to expect during your boat travel adventure and how to plan and book your trip effectively. Safety and regulations are also crucial for a smooth and secure journey.

So join me as we navigate this ultimate guide, uncovering must-see destinations, tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable voyage at sea. Get ready to set sail toward freedom!

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Boat travel offers a sense of liberation, adventure, and freedom on the open sea.
• There are different options for boat travel, including luxurious cruise ships and humble cargo vessels.
• Boat tours allow travelers to explore unique ports off the beaten path and immerse themselves in local culture.
• Planning and booking a boat trip effectively is important for a smooth and secure journey.

Why Choose Boat Travel? Discover the Allure of Traveling by Sea

Experience the exhilarating freedom of sailing across vast oceans, feeling the gentle sway of the boat beneath you as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Boat travel offers a unique and enchanting way to explore the world.

Whether you choose a cruise ship, ferry, or sailboat, there’s something magical about being out on the open sea.

Unlike other forms of transportation, traveling by boat allows you to escape the confines of land and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the ocean.

As a passenger on a boat, you can witness breathtaking sunsets, spot dolphins playing in the waves, and feel an unparalleled sense of freedom as you journey toward your destination.

With boats catering to travelers and cargo alike, endless sea exploration possibilities exist. So why not embrace this extraordinary mode of travel and set sail for your next adventure?

Cruise Ships vs. Cargo Ships: Exploring Different Boat Travel Options

Comparing cruise ships and cargo ships brings to light the differences in amenities and experiences available on each type of vessel.

Cruise ships are known for their luxurious accommodations, entertainment, and dining choices. Passengers can enjoy spa treatments and live shows or relax by the pool while experiencing breathtaking ocean views.

On the other hand, cargo ships offer a more authentic and intimate travel experience. These working vessels allow passengers to witness the daily operations of shipping companies firsthand.

While they may lack some extravagant features of cruise ships, cargo ships provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in commercial shipping.

From transatlantic crossings to freighter travel adventures, boat travel options exist for those seeking a different journey on the open sea.

Embark on a Memorable Cruise: Unveiling the Joys of Cruise Ship Travel

Immerse yourself in a world of luxury and excitement as you embark on a memorable cruise, where endless possibilities for relaxation and adventure await.

Cruise ship travel offers a unique experience like no other. With numerous cruise lines, you can find the perfect luxury cruise that suits your preferences.

Once onboard, indulge in exquisite dining options, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch entertainment. The joys of cruise ship travel extend beyond the amenities and into the captivating itineraries that take you on unforgettable voyages to breathtaking destinations.

As you sail through crystal-clear waters, imagine yourself exploring vibrant Caribbean islands or discovering hidden gems in exotic locations. With each stop along your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to disembark and explore fascinating ports of call.

Onboard activities cater to every taste – whether lounging by the pool with a refreshing cocktail or participating in thrilling excursions like snorkeling or zip-lining.

So why wait? Embark on an extraordinary adventure and let the joys of cruise ship travel create memories that will last a lifetime.

Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Unique Ports on Boat Tours

Venture off the traditional route and uncover hidden treasures as you explore one-of-a-kind ports on captivating boat tours. Off the beaten path, these unique ports offer a glimpse into lesser-known destinations filled with charm and authenticity.

Imagine docking at remote islands, picturesque coastal towns, or even historic fishing villages that retained their old-world charm.

On these boat tours, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious regional cuisine, and discover hidden gems that can’t be found in travel guidebooks. Whether wandering through vibrant markets or exploring ancient ruins, there’s something for every adventurous traveler.

Booking a boat tour allows you to escape the crowds and experience true freedom as you travel by sea. From luxurious cruise ships to cargo ship travel options, there’re various ways to embark on these unforgettable journeys.

So pack your bags and prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you sail to explore these unique ports on boat tours.

Onboard Experiences: What to Expect During Your Boat Travel Adventure

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as you step aboard and discover a world of exciting experiences awaiting you during your boat travel adventure.

Whether you travel the world on luxury cruise ships or opt for more unique options like cargo ship voyages or freighter travel offers, onboard experiences will captivate your senses.

As you set sail on the high seas, prepare yourself for the thrill of sea travel and the freedom it brings.

Feel the wind in your hair as you lounge on deck chairs, soaking up the sun and taking in breathtaking ocean views.

Explore different ports of call, immersing yourself in local cultures and traditions. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with safety procedures and always wear life jackets when necessary, respecting local laws.

Get ready for an adventure like no other!

Freighter Travel: Unconventional Journeys on Cargo Ships

Embarking on a freighter travel adventure allows me to experience unconventional journeys on cargo ships, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-path way to explore the world.

Unlike traditional boat trips, freighter travel offers an intimate and authentic experience as I sail through the vast oceans aboard a working cargo ship.

As I arrive at the bustling port, I’m immediately immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of international trade. The sight of massive containers being loaded and unloaded fills me with awe.

Onboard, I find comfort in my cozy cabin, equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable journey. The slow pace of life on a cargo ship gives me ample time to relax and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

From sailing through crystal-clear waters in the Bahamas to witnessing stunning sunsets from the deck, every moment kindles my sense of freedom and adventure.

To embark on this extraordinary voyage, various freighter companies offer unforgettable experiences on these floating engineering marvels.

The USA to Europe: Epic Transatlantic Voyages

As I traverse the vast Atlantic Ocean, a sense of awe washes over me as I witness the magnificent spectacle of cargo ships connecting the USA to Europe.

The journey from the USA to Europe is an epic transatlantic voyage that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are four reasons why traveling by boat on this route is the ultimate way to explore:

• Freedom: Sailing across the ocean provides a sense of liberation and escape from everyday life.
• Unparalleled Views: From the deck of a ship, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of endless horizons and stunning sunsets.
• Slow Travel: Embrace a slower pace of travel, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey and appreciate each passing wave.
• Cultural Connections: Onboard, you’ll have opportunities to interact with fellow travelers from different backgrounds, fostering cultural exchanges that enrich your experience.

Embarking on a transatlantic voyage from the USA to Europe is an adventure that combines exploration, relaxation, and cultural discovery into one unforgettable boat trip.

Planning and Booking: Essential Steps for a Successful Boat Trip

Navigating the planning and booking process is essential to ensure a successful and fulfilling voyage across the Atlantic. Regarding traveling by boat, taking a boat from the USA to Europe is an incredible way to explore the world without flying. Several steps need to be taken for a smooth journey.

First, decide on your desired route and destination. Next, research different boat options and compare prices, amenities, and reviews.

Once you’ve decided, book your ticket in advance to secure your spot. Finally, pack wisely and prepare for any potential challenges or delays.

To make things easier, here’s a helpful table outlining some important considerations when planning and booking your trip:

Following these steps and being organized in your planning process will prepare you for an unforgettable adventure across the Atlantic.

It’s truly a unique way to travel – hopping oneway between two continents while experiencing the freedom of life at sea. So don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity; start planning today!

Safety and Regulations: Ensuring a Smooth and Secure Journey

Ensure a smooth and secure journey across the Atlantic by familiarizing yourself with safety regulations and taking necessary precautions. When embarking on a boat travel adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize safety.

Start by researching reputable boat companies like Crewseekers that prioritize the well-being of their passengers. Ensure your chosen boat has the right safety equipment, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and emergency flares.

Familiarize yourself with maritime regulations to ensure compliance throughout your journey. Communicating with the crew about safety procedures and emergency protocols is also essential.

Remember, a secure journey starts with proper planning and preparation. By adhering to safety regulations and equipping yourself with knowledge, you can experience the ultimate guide to travel by boat while enjoying a smooth and secure journey across the open seas.

Creating Your Boat Travel Itinerary: Must-See Destinations and Tips

Embarking on a boat adventure allows me to sail on a captivating voyage, exploring breathtaking destinations and uncovering hidden gems.

One must-see destination is the Caribbean, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. As I plan my itinerary, I am considering taking an airplane to Panama, where I can board a freighter for an extraordinary experience. This unique journey offers stunning coastline views and allows me to witness dolphins playing in their natural habitat.

Another exciting stop is Thailand, where I can immerse myself in the rich culture and explore pristine beaches. Before setting sail, it’s essential to check visa requirements for each destination and budget accordingly, considering that some freighters charge around $100 per person daily.

With Singapore as my final stop, my boat travel adventure promises ultimate freedom and endless discoveries.

After diving deep into the world of boat travel, it’s clear that setting sail is truly the ultimate way to explore the wonders of our vast oceans.

From luxurious cruises to off-the-beaten-path adventures, there’s something for everyone on these remarkable journeys.

And who wouldn’t want to experience the thrill of a transatlantic voyage?

So grab your life jacket and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Remember, while safety regulations are in place, sometimes irony can bring unexpected twists to our travels.

Happy sailing!

FAQs | Travel by Boat

What is boat travel.

Boat travel refers to traveling by boat or ship, whether it’s for leisure, transportation, or exploration purposes.

What are the benefits of traveling by boat?

Traveling by boat allows you to experience the serenity of the sea, enjoy breathtaking views, explore unique destinations, and avoid the hustle and bustle of airports and crowded cities.

How can I book a boat trip?

You can book a boat trip by contacting a travel agency, searching online booking platforms, or contacting boat tour operators. Check availability, prices, and reviews before making your reservation.

Are there different types of boat tours available?

Yes, there are various types of boat tours available. Some options include cruise ship tours, ferry trips, yacht charters, cargo ship experiences, and sailing adventures.

Can I travel by boat from the USA to Europe?

Yes, traveling by boat from the USA to Europe is possible. Several cruise lines offer transatlantic cruises that provide a unique way to cross the ocean and explore different countries.

Are boat trips safe?

Boat trips can be safe if proper safety measures are followed. It’s essential to choose reputable boat tour operators, wear life jackets when required, and listen to the instructions provided by the crew.

Can I travel by freighter and cargo ships?

Yes, it is possible to travel on freighter and cargo ships. This type of travel offers a unique experience, allowing you to see the world differently. However, it’s important to note that freighter travel may have limited passenger amenities compared to cruise ships.

What are some popular destinations for boat travel?

There are numerous popular destinations for boat travel, including the Caribbean islands, the Mediterranean coast, Greek islands, Alaskan fjords, Norwegian fjords, and the French Riviera, among others.

Is it possible to travel by boat with a bicycle?

Some boat tour operators allow passengers to bring bicycles on board. Still, it’s essential to check with the specific company beforehand and inquire about any restrictions or additional fees that may apply.

What should I pack for a boat trip?

When packing for a boat trip, it’s crucial to include essentials such as appropriate clothing for different weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, toiletries, any necessary medications, and a valid passport if traveling internationally.

• https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Boat_travel
• https://www.jasminealley.com/travel-by-boat/
• https://drifttravel.com/planning-to-travel-by-boat-here-are-some-useful-tips/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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He Made the Longest Ocean Voyage in History, and Turned It Into Art

Reid Stowe once hung out with Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring. But the sea was his true passion.

By Alex Vadukul

Along a Hudson River pier in 2010, a sailor docked his battered schooner as a crowd watched in quiet anticipation. When he wearily stepped onto land, he had finished a remarkable human journey: Reid Stowe had been at sea for 1,152 days, the longest nonstop ocean voyage in recorded history.

A decade later, Mr. Stowe is raising a family in suburban North Carolina and driving a 2005 Chevy Malibu. But he has also obsessively been making giant abstract paintings, most of them using the weather-beaten sails that carried his schooner across the globe. He was recently back in New York to visit the Chelsea gallery that is showing his art.

“All this time later, I’m still trying to tell the world the story of what I went through,” said Mr. Stowe, 67, during his recent stay in Manhattan. “I’ve departed the touch of earth longer than anyone else. All my paintings carry the vibrations and significance of that journey.”

Tall and blue-eyed, Mr. Stowe has chased adventure his whole life. He crossed the Atlantic twice on a tiny catamaran when he was 21; he sailed through icebergs in Antarctica; he was kidnapped by pirates on the Amazon River.

But in the 1980s, Mr. Stowe was a striving artist in the downtown New York art scene, hanging out in the same circles as Keith Haring and Julian Schnabel. Jean-Michel Basquiat painted a portrait of him, but Mr. Stowe later sold it to fund his expedition. (He accepted $20,000 in 1993; the painting sold for $94,000 at Christie’s seven years later.)

Mr. Stowe was in a couple of small group shows in the East Village, but he was always returning to the sea. He hopes this show, at the Paul Calendrillo Gallery , might be his second chance at the art world.

“I was painting on giant canvases before Schnabel was,” he said. “Warhol’s dealer told me I could be big, but he’d say, ‘Well, Reid’s going off on another trip again.’”

Mr. Stowe became obsessed with embarking on a thousand-day journey at sea in the 1970s. His intention was to simulate a round-trip to Mars, and he spent years preparing for it.

His father was an Air Force lieutenant colonel, and he grew up on military bases around the world, but he seemed to show little interest in regimentation after that.

As a young man, he visited the South Pacific and he later carved the figureheads of Polynesian spirits into his 70-foot schooner for protection. (His ship, which he built himself, is named Anne, for his mother.) He studied Taoist philosophy, and he claims that energy harnessed from tantric sex has powered his long distance voyages.

In St. Barts, he was a pot smuggler (he spent nine months in jail), and in the 1990s he lived rent-free on a boat moored to a dock in Chelsea. His three marriages to young women — two artists and a model — all ended in divorce because they wouldn’t commit, he said, to the 1,000-day trip.

Soanya Ahmad was different. She was a 23-year-old photography student when she met Mr. Stowe, who was then 55, and one of the first things he asked her was: “How’s your health? Can you spend a long time at sea? It’s important I know.”

In 2007, they departed from Hoboken on a boat stocked with six tons of nonperishable provisions and a sprout garden. On Day 15, a freighter hit their schooner. Around Day 300, Ms. Ahmad started feeling sick, and a boat picked her up near the coast of Australia. Communicating by a satellite phone, Mr. Stowe soon learned that she was pregnant. On Day 457, Soanya gave birth to Darshen in New York. Mr. Stowe met his son for the first time when he arrived on the Hudson two years later.

Since returning to land, Mr. Stowe has embraced something close to domesticity. He now lives in the suburbs of Greensboro, N.C., at his father’s house with Darshen, who is now 11, and Soanya.

He mows the lawn, and he likes watching thrillers on television. He takes care of his father, who has Alzheimer’s. Mr. Stowe said they all get by modestly on his father’s retirement funds and from his painting sales. Soanya home-schools Darshen, and Mr. Stowe hopes to take his son sailing this winter to Haiti. “He was braver when he was younger,” Mr. Stowe said. “He used to laugh at storms. Now he doesn’t like mud. He likes playing a computer game called Fortnite.” Mr. Stowe’s schooner is moored on the North Carolina coast, and requires serious repairs.

Mr. Stowe still thinks about his trip constantly, but he doesn’t miss the spotlight.

As his voyage gained international coverage, he became the subject of derision in a corner of the sailing community. The users of a website called Sailing Anarchy , which caters to regatta racers and yacht owners, started mocking Mr. Stowe as a narcissistic hippie with a knack for self-promotion. Still, they followed Mr. Stowe’s trip obsessively, and one message board reached over 30,000 comments.

“I guess Stowe is still bobbing around, people continue to give him enough stuff to get by and he manages to lure in another young thing,” read a typically caustic comment. After Ms. Ahmad became pregnant, their scorn intensified. One commenter tracked down Mr. Stowe’s federal conviction for pot smuggling, and he also posted a report that Mr. Stowe once owed more than $11,000 in child support to the mother of his daughter from his first marriage. (Mr. Stowe insists he wasn’t behind on payments).

When the trip ended, the trolls faded away, but Mr. Stowe said he lost valuable sponsorship opportunities as a result. Since then, he’s also been trying to publish a memoir.

“They wanted to paint me as this guy who took a young woman to sea, got her pregnant, and abandoned her,” said Mr. Stowe. “The truth is I did something no one else had ever done, and I got to go do it with a beautiful girl, and they didn’t like that. They all wanted to be me, but they were stuck behind their computers.”

While Mr. Stowe made the trip to New York for the gallery opening, Ms. Ahmad, who is now 36, remained in North Carolina to take care of Mr. Stowe’s father. “People judged Reid for not being with me, but I supported him being out there,” she said over the phone. “He needed to get that trip out of his system so he could come back. All this judgment came down on us, but we’re all still together, and there’s nothing anyone can say about that.”

She said that suburban life has been an adjustment for him. “He’s had to get used to living in a house,” she said. “It’s difficult sometimes for us to relate to neighbors. They Google us and conversations can be awkward.”

But soon after settling down, Mr. Stowe felt compelled to start painting seriously. Every day, he works in a studio in his backyard and the giant sail canvases he paints on hang from trees with pulley systems. “When a storm comes through, I hear the sails flap and it makes me feel alive,” said Mr. Stowe. “When people see my art, I want them to feel the trip. I want them to walk into the unknown.”

At his gallery show in Chelsea the other day, Mr. Stowe reminisced about his days in the downtown New York scene. He was living in a loft on Broome Street, he partied with Keith Haring at Danceteria, and he got written up in a Japanese art magazine. And then there was the Jean-Michel Basquiat portrait session in 1985.

Mr. Stowe was in St. Barts on his boat, he recalled, and Basquiat joined him while he was there on vacation.

“He visited me and I showed him my studio. He asked, ‘Can I paint, too?’ I gave him some prime white plywood and he painted me standing there. You know how he leaves eyes blank? He told me we were looking at each other through those eyes.”

Mr. Stowe doesn’t regret selling his Basquiat. “I needed to cut my ties to the earth,” he said. “I had to sell my Basquiat because I wanted to merge my spirit with something as high as God.”

“Art Transformations From the Longest Sea Voyage in History,” is on display at the Paul Calendrillo Gallery , at 548 West 28th Street, until Oct. 31.

Alex Vadukul is a city correspondent for The New York Times. He writes for Metropolitan and is a two-time winner of the New York Press Club award for city writing. More about Alex Vadukul

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The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean

Description.

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From bestselling author Susan Casey, an awe-inspiring portrait of the mysterious world beneath the waves, and the men and women who seek to uncover its secrets “An irresistible mix of splendid scholarship, heart-stopping adventure writing, and vivid, visceral prose." — Sy Montgomery, New York Times best-selling author of The Soul of an Octopus For all of human history, the deep ocean has been a source of wonder and terror, an unknown realm that evoked a singular, compelling question: What’s down there ? Unable to answer this for centuries, people believed the deep was a sinister realm of fiendish creatures and deadly peril. But now, cutting-edge technologies allow scientists and explorers to dive miles beneath the surface, and we are beginning to understand this strange and exotic underworld:  A place of soaring mountains, smoldering volcanoes, and valleys 7,000 feet deeper than Everest is high, where tectonic plates collide and separate, and extraordinary life forms operate under different rules. Far from a dark void, the deep is a vibrant realm that’s home to pink gelatinous predators and shimmering creatures a hundred feet long and ancient animals with glass skeletons and sharks that live for half a millennium—among countless other marvels. Susan Casey is our premiere chronicler of the aquatic world. For The Underworld she traversed the globe, joining scientists and explorers on dives to the deepest places on the planet, interviewing the marine geologists, marine biologists, and oceanographers who are searching for knowledge in this vast unseen realm. She takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of deep-sea exploration, from the myths and legends of the ancient world to storied shipwrecks we can now reach on the bottom, to the first intrepid bathysphere pilots, to the scientists who are just beginning to understand the mind-blowing complexity and ecological importance of the quadrillions of creatures who live in realms long thought to be devoid of life. Throughout this journey, she learned how vital the deep is to the future of the planet, and how urgent it is that we understand it in a time of increasing threats from climate change, industrial fishing, pollution, and the mining companies that are also exploring its depths. The Underworld is Susan Casey’s most beautiful and thrilling book yet, a gorgeous evocation of the natural world and a powerful call to arms.

About the Author

Susan Casey, author of New York Times bestseller’s Voices in the Ocean, The Wave , and The Devil’s Teeth: A True Story of Obsession and Survival Among America’s Great White Sharks and is the former editor in chief of O, The Oprah Magazine . She is a National Magazine Award-winning journalist whose work has been featured in the Best American Science and Nature Writing, Best American Sports Writing , and Best American Magazine Writing anthologies; and has appeared in Esquire, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, and Outside.

Praise for The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER "An awe-inspiring journey." — People “Casey’s descriptions of the shimmeringly strange life teeming below the waves capture her wonder and ravishment in prose that morphs into poetry … enthralling.” — The Boston Globe “Not just a knowledgeable guide, Ms. Casey is also a memorable wordsmith…[Casey’s] book has more than enough deep-sea biology and geology to dazzle.” — Wall Street Journal “A fascinating history of mankind's journeys to the depths of the ocean and the intrepid scientists and adventurers who have devoted their lives to the work … Casey's book satisfies our greatest curiosities about the mysteries of the ocean.” —Time   “In [The Underworld] Casey proves to be an exceptional adventurer and chronicler but also a member of a community dedicated to exploration and conservation of our least-understood aquatic wild places.” —Los Angeles Times “[The Underworld] is a fine tour of the history and challenges of exploring this most fantastical and forbidding of earthen worlds.” —The Washington Post “[An] entertaining account…wondrous…Casey excels at conjuring the “marvelous weirdos” that glide through submersibles' beam." — Scientific American “One of the most accurate and vivid portrayals of a deep-sea dive that I have ever read” — Science Magazine “A thrilling and enlightening exploration of the deepest parts of the world’s oceans, featuring some of the most daring aquanauts using cutting-edge technology to make discoveries that boggle the mind” — The Explorers Journal "Is Susan Casey the next Rachel Carson? Yes. Her latest book, The Underworld: Journeys to the Depth of the Ocean, establishes her as the latest in the lineage of great ocean interpreters that began with Carson’s Under the Sea-Wind ... Casey’s narrative is so cinematic we begin to feel the awe, wonder and excitement of the abyss." —Rachel Carson Council "Masterful and mesmerizing, Susan Casey's THE UNDERWORLD is an irresistible mix of splendid scholarship, heart-stopping adventure writing, and  vivid, visceral prose. Her book about the ocean's deeps is both uplifting and profound in the literal sense. I was riveted to every page." — Sy Montgomery, author of The New York Times bestseller THE SOUL OF AN OCTOPUS "Prepare to submerge. Susan Casey is a reporter in a league of her own. She will go anywhere to get her story. This one is full of astounding news, great characters, wondrous explorations, and a full measure of outrage. Deep-sea mining, you will come to understand, must be stopped." —William Finnegan, author of Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life

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Beyond the Numbers: Silversea’s Three Oceans World Cruise 2027

• World cruise 2027
• Three Oceans World Cruise 2027
• Silver Dawn

Numbers tell a fascinating story about Silversea’s recently announced World Cruise 2027 :  149 days, 80 destinations, 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 35 countries, five continents. For sure, the statistics are breathtaking on their own, but add a range of programs and special events, and the stage is set for nearly five months of immersive experiences and adventures that enrich and elevate guests’ journey on The Three Oceans World Cruise 2027 on Silversea.

The journey will call in more destinations than any voyage in Silversea’s history, says Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. Traveling on the 596-passenger Silver Dawn, guests will “discover the very best experiences in ultra-luxury cruise travel,” Hernandez adds.

Indeed, Silver Dawn features Silversea’s popular S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which connects menus and shore adventures with the regions in which guests are traveling. It also has the OTIUM spa, which celebrates indulgence and wellness.

Gaining a world view in new ways

Departing Jan. 8, 2027, from Los Angeles, guests will find those experiences in such destinations as Hawaii, French Polynesia, American Samoa, Melanesia and New Caledonia before Silver Dawn heads to Brisbane, Australia and circles northward to Asian, some new, and some familiar. Then it turns south, eventually tracing a path around the southernmost piece of the African continent. Next? Silver Dawn heads up its western coast, reaching the Iberian Peninsula before heading for the U.K. and Ireland and on to Scandinavia, where the journey ends June 7 in Copenhagen.

Besides learning more about ports that promise hidden gems, guests also will be introduced to various cuisines of the world, thanks to the innovative S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) culinary program aboard the Dawn. A constantly changing menu in the S.A.L.T. Kitchen provides a sumptuous introduction to regional cuisines through a menu that changes depending on where the Dawn is in this voyage, and S.A.L.T. Bar crafts beverages that reflect the region as well.  S.A.L.T. experiences ashore as well as programs in the hands-on S.A.L.T. Lab also expand knowledge and appreciation of global cuisines.

What’s new for 2027’s Three Oceans World Cruise?

Travelers can try to spot the Big 5 in South Africa, cruise the Norwegian fjords, which offer a trifecta of landscapes, brilliantly green peaks and thundering waterfalls; swim above the Great Barrier Reef, revered for its beauty and the habitats it provides; rest and rejuvenate in Bora Bora’s famed overwater bungalows, where the tides will lull you to sleep World Cruise 2027 also offers the luxury of exploring destinations in extraordinary ways. Among them:

A S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) Culinary Experience in Sri Lanka: This country has absorbed the best of the cuisines and cultures that have been woven into its rich fabric. A S.A.L.T experience not only allows you to sample the result of the culinary triumph but also allows you to participate in its creation with interactive demonstrations that unlock the secrets of a feast that you will want to replicate.

Livingstone’s Legacy: David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer and missionary, led the way in opening Africa to the rest of the world. Thwarted by unrest in China, where he hoped to live and work, he chose Africa, arriving in March 1841 in South Africa and making discovery after discovery for the next 15 years. In 1855, he traveled to what became known as Victoria Falls. This two-night optional excursion gives guests a ringside seat to a misty spectacle that commands awe and draws respect from all who are enchanted by their power and thunder.

Hawaiian Treasures: You will be introduced to the wonders of the hoku (stars) in Hawaii, which not only put on a dazzling light show for all to see but also will be preceded by a special celebration honoring the Polynesian navigators who developed a way to navigate by the stars. You’ll eat delicious fare from an imu, an inground oven that has allowed, for centuries, the cooking and steaming of such dishes as kalua pig, taro, chicken, fish, sweet potatoes and breadfruit. The flavor of its dishes is unrivaled in its moistness and delicately smoky flavor.

Harmonies of the Emerald Isle: Belfast Cathedral, also known as the Church of St. Anne, is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. It will be the setting for a taste of local cuisine in a special Silversea event that will also include choral music. The first part of this Romanesque building was the nave, which was consecrated in June 1904. The church’s grand arches celebrate distinguished members, and the pillars pay heed to shipbuilding, linen, the arts and womanhood, among other topics.

2027’s Three Oceans World Cruise has three segments

World cruises typically are designed in segments for a few reasons. Each one of the three segments in our 2027 Three Oceans World Cruise is wrapped around a theme of discovery. As well, for those travelers whose schedules don’t permit them a full world cruise, you can still experience its essence by just booking a segment or two. More specifics? Read on.

Segment 1: An Ocean of Time: The Pacific Ocean

The first leg of the voyage takes you from Los Angeles to destinations you think you know, but on Silversea, you’ll find quite a different lens through which you’ll view a trip whose first leg will dock 46 days later in Brisbane, Australia.

In Hawaii, for instance, guests can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to the one of the largest active volcanoes in the world. Further, guests will learn about the mysterious Polynesian seafarers at an event that delves into the mysteries of how they navigated vast areas of the Pacific. A ho’olaule’a , or celebration, in Honolulu focuses on authentic fare and allows guests to contemplate just how those early Polynesians knew so much about the world.

The next phase of the trip takes you to Rangiroa, Moorea, and Bora Bora, all in French Polynesia and Samoa on Upolu, the second largest island in Samoa’s chain. Silver Dawn also calls at Lautoka on the island of Viti Levu, Fiji, the largest island in a country that includes more than 840 islands and islets and where temperatures in winter rarely dip below the 60s.

Guests can celebrate Champagne Beach in Vanuatu (“Our Land Forever”), a country that’s been independent since 1980. What will have you bubbling: This is the place you envision when you dream – think crystalline waters and baby-fine sand – of the ideal idyll.

After a stop in Lifou Island, the largest of the Loyalty Islands in the country of New Caledonia, you’ll be heading for Australia and its varied faces and places: Arlie Beach in the Whitsundays region; Darwin, the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory; and Brisbane, the third largest city in Australia and the capital of Queensland, which will give you another taste of the tropics and an opportunity to get to know the Great Barrier Reef, just off its coast.

Segment 2: An Ocean of Life: The Indian Ocean

The second segment of World Cruise 2027 embraces the magical and the mystical, including a stop in Bali, east of Indonesia’s Java, and Semarang, on the northern coast of Java, a place of temples and statues of Buddha. Contrast that contemplative spot with a stop in Singapore, the city-state on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula and the largest port in Southeast Asia. The title of long-serving Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s book, “From Third World to First: The Singapore Story, 1965-2000” chronicles a transformation that remains a marvel.

Nature again takes center stage, this time in Praslin, Seychelles, called the “green pearl of the Indian Ocean.” It’s known for Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, or Mai Valley National Park, a UNESCO site that overflows with colorful flowers and plants that are unique to this island.

Before 1972, Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon, and Colombo, its capital, has been crisscrossed by maritime visitors throughout the ages, including Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and British. Today the country is a colorful tapestry of cuisines and cultures. 

At a call in Réunion, South Africa, part of the Mascarene Islands (a French overseas department) in the western Indian Ocean, you’ll hear French spoken widely – it was a French colony until 1946 but today is an overseas département of France.

The adventure continues to escalate on a two-day trip from Durban, South Africa, to Port Elizabeth, now called Gqeberha, as guests are introduced to Victoria Falls, which span the breadth of the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The breathtaking spectacle drops about 33,000 cubic feet of water per second. To put that in perspective, if a small bathtub holds 4 cubic feet of water, guests will see the equivalent of 8,250 bathtubs of water plunge over the falls every second.

Segment 3: An Ocean of Discovery: The Atlantic Ocean

Guests will be introduced to a host of fascinating destinations after Cape Town, including Namibia, whose landscape includes desert, mountains and savannas; Angola,  the largest of the Portuguese-speaking countries and blessed with abundant natural resources, including oil; Ghana, formerly a  British colony once called the Gold Coast for its cache of the precious metal and today, rich with natural beauty; and the Gambia, Africa’s  smallest, non-island country known for its beaches and said to be the place from which Kunta Kinte, from Alex Haley’s “Roots,” originated.

Dakar, the national capital of Senegal on the Cape Verde Peninsula, is a hub for West Africa, and although the government plans to move the capital in the coming years, Dakar will remain a popular tourist destination, thanks to its melange of cultures, and its gorgeous beaches.

The Canary Islands and Morocco will be featured prominently in the next segment of travel. Guests will visit Praia, capital of Cabo Verde, a country made up of islands that are nearly 400 miles off Africa;  Arrecife, the main port of Lanzarote Island in the Canary Islands; and Agadir and Casablanca, Morocco, a place forever imprinted in movie-lovers’ minds. A stop in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and the westernmost capital city in continental Europe, shows off the country’s ascendance as a favorite destination, thanks to the weather, its beaches, its castles and, of course, its fado music.

At Belfast, Northern Ireland, Silversea guests can attend a musical performance in the Romanesque Cathedral, where its stained glass windows and needlework (including kneelers) reflect both its style and simplicity.

World Cruise 2027 winds up in Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital and home to Tivoli, which is called an amusement park but will give  visitors a generous dose of culture, including musicals, ballet and concerts, as well as a generous helping of botanic beauty that makes it wholly and wonderfully different from the U.S. playgrounds and their mousey mascots.

It is 149 days later, not quite half a year! And certainly enough memories for a lifetime. 

And wait! There’s more

A big part of the allure of a Silversea World Cruise are the special events that provide more context to the places you’re visiting. A team of destination experts design and implement these special events.

“ We love off-the-beaten-path locales that allow us to produce experiences our guests won’t find anywhere else,” Kevin McKeon, Silversea’s experiences and events manager, tells me.

World Cruise 2027, for instance, will focus on the Polynesian Seafarers and invite guests to join in on a what McKeon called a “cultural and culinary journey where, as guests dine, we lead through a reading of the stars,” which Polynesians believed spoke a “language” that communicated how to navigate the waters. They used no maps or charts in those long-ago days but memorized the position of stars to ensure successful and safe passage to and through the 62 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. Ingenuity and innovation opened the way for travelers for generations to come.

McKeon also is excited about an overland trip to Victoria Falls. “The ability to take our guests deeper into southern Africa,” he says, “and immerse them in nature, the way [Scottish explorer] Stanley Livingstone found it, presents a great opportunity to deliver on our mission of ‘Traveling Deeper in Luxury.’ The experience includes two nights in luxury accommodations, sunset river cruises along the Zambezi River and memorable dining experiences await our World Cruise guests.

Producing such special events is never easy, McKeon acknowledges, but he and Jannie Cloete, the director of Silversea events and experiences, make it look that way, thanks to hard work, countless hours and millions of details woven into the creation of  these once-in-a-lifetime events.

“I often think about my second day on the job at Silversea, meeting Jannie at ‘Opera in the Quarry’ in a limestone quarry outside of Cape Town, South Africa,” McKeon recalls. “The scale, attention to detail and Jannie’s delivery of the event demonstrated to me that Silversea truly is the leader in experiential travel.

“It set me on this course, and  I’ve never looked back.”

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Analyzing "Journey Under the Sea": Diving into Underwater Adventures

In "Journey Under the Sea Analysis: Diving into Underwater Adventures," we explore the plot, characters, themes, and impact of this classic Choose-Your-Own-Adventure story, uncovering why it has remained a beloved favorite for over four decades.

Table of Contents

Introduction, overview of "journey under the sea", plot analysis, character analysis, themes explored in "journey under the sea", impact and legacy of "journey under the sea".

"Journey Under the Sea" is a classic Choose-Your-Own-Adventure story written by R.A. Montgomery and first published in 1977. The story takes place in the year 2022 and follows the adventures of the reader, who is a marine biologist and underwater explorer, as they embark on a mission to save the world from a dangerous underwater volcano. As with all Choose-Your-Own-Adventure stories, the reader makes choices throughout the story that affect the outcome and ultimately determine whether they succeed or fail in their mission.

In this article, we will analyze "Journey Under the Sea" in detail, including its plot, characters, themes, and impact on the Choose-Your-Own-Adventure genre. By examining these elements, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of why "Journey Under the Sea" has remained a beloved classic among fans of interactive fiction for over four decades.

"Journey Under the Sea" is a thrilling adventure story that takes place in a future world where the ocean has become the last frontier of exploration. The story begins with the reader receiving an urgent message from a team of scientists who are studying a volcano that has been discovered deep beneath the surface of the ocean. The volcano is about to erupt, which could cause a global catastrophe if not stopped in time. The reader, who is a skilled marine biologist and underwater explorer, is tasked with joining the team and using their expertise to stop the volcano from erupting.

Throughout the story, the reader must make a series of choices that affect the outcome of the mission. These choices include deciding which path to take through the dangerous underwater caves, whether to trust a mysterious stranger who offers to help, and whether to attempt a risky maneuver to disarm the volcano. The choices made by the reader ultimately determine whether they are successful in their mission or whether they fail and suffer the consequences.

Also read: The Mystery of Chimney Rock: Investigating Haunted House Adventures

The plot of "Journey Under the Sea" is a classic adventure story that combines elements of science fiction, suspense, and action. The story takes place in a future world where the ocean has become the last unexplored frontier, and the reader is thrust into the role of a skilled marine biologist and underwater explorer who must save the world from a dangerous underwater volcano.

The plot of the story is driven by the choices made by the reader. Each choice leads to a different outcome, and the reader must navigate through a series of challenges and obstacles in order to succeed in their mission. The story is well-paced, with each choice leading to a new and exciting development in the plot.

The main character of "Journey Under the Sea" is the reader, who is a marine biologist and underwater explorer. The reader is a skilled and resourceful protagonist who must use their expertise and quick thinking to navigate through the dangerous underwater environment and save the world from a catastrophic event.

Aside from the reader, there are several other characters in the story, including the team of scientists studying the volcano, a mysterious stranger who offers to help the reader, and a rival team of explorers who are also trying to stop the volcano from erupting.

Also read: Dissecting "House of Danger": A Suspenseful Interactive Fiction Classic

While the secondary characters in the story are not as well-developed as the reader, they serve their purpose in advancing the plot and adding to the tension and suspense of the story.

"Journey Under the Sea" explores several themes that are common in adventure stories and science fiction. These themes include exploration, danger, teamwork, and the power of knowledge and expertise.

One of the key themes of the story is exploration. The ocean is portrayed as a vast and mysterious frontier that is full of wonders and dangers. The reader, as a marine biologist and underwater explorer, embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure as they navigate through the underwater caves and discover new species of marine life.

The theme of danger is also prevalent throughout the story. The reader faces numerous hazards and challenges, including treacherous underwater currents, deadly sea creatures, and the imminent threat of a catastrophic volcanic eruption. The story emphasizes the importance of courage and quick thinking in the face of danger, and the reader must use their wits and expertise to survive and succeed.

Also read: Dissecting "Which Way" Books: Early Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Stories for Kids

Teamwork is another important theme in the story. The reader must work closely with the team of scientists studying the volcano, as well as a mysterious stranger who offers to help. The story emphasizes the importance of trust and collaboration in achieving a common goal.

Finally, the story highlights the power of knowledge and expertise. The reader's skills as a marine biologist and underwater explorer are essential to the success of the mission, and the story emphasizes the importance of education and expertise in solving complex problems.

"Journey Under the Sea" has had a significant impact on the Choose-Your-Own-Adventure genre and has remained a beloved classic among fans of interactive fiction for over four decades.

The story's combination of adventure, suspense, and science fiction has made it a popular choice for readers of all ages, and its emphasis on choice and consequence has inspired countless other interactive fiction stories and games.

Also read: Examining "Her Story": A Groundbreaking FMV-Based Interactive Mystery

In addition to its literary legacy, "Journey Under the Sea" has also had an impact on popular culture. The story has been adapted into a graphic novel, a computer game, and even a stage play, and its influence can be seen in numerous other works of science fiction and adventure fiction.

"Journey Under the Sea" is a classic Choose-Your-Own-Adventure story that has remained a beloved favorite among fans of interactive fiction for over four decades. The story's thrilling adventure, well-paced plot, and emphasis on choice and consequence make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain readers of all ages.

By analyzing the plot, characters, themes, and impact of "Journey Under the Sea," we have gained a deeper understanding of why this story has had such a lasting impact on the Choose-Your-Own-Adventure genre and on popular culture as a whole.

40 Ocean Quotes for Everyone Who Loves The Sea

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: July 21, 2021  - Last updated: December 16, 2021

Are you inspired by the ocean? Gazing out to sea, sailing, or just spending a lazy day on the beach can be such a magical experience. Here are my 40 favorite ocean quotes to inspire you to spend some time out on the water.

These ocean quotes about the sea range from short to long, inspirational to funny (and everything in between!), so I’m sure you’ll find a quote that you love. I’ve illustrated each of these ocean quotes with a beautiful photo of the sea, perfect to save to your ocean Pinterest board.

I hope you enjoy these quotes as much as I do. Use your favorites for scrapbooking, journaling, and Instagram captions, or just for inspiration to keep looking to the horizon.

Please feel free to save any of my ocean quotes images to use on your own website or social media. Just be sure to credit Should Be Cruising and link back to this page. Thanks!

1. “Smell the sea and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly.” — Van Morrison

Sir George Ivan Morrison (1945-) is a Grammy Award-winning Northern Irish singer-songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer. This ocean quote is from the lyrics to  Into the Mystic , from his 1970 album  Moondance .

2. “Dance with the waves, move with the sea. Let the rhythm of the water set your soul free.” — Christy Ann Martine

One of my favorite ocean quotes, these lines are by Christy Ann Martine Zutautas (1972-), a Canadian poet and writer. This quote about the ocean is from her short poem, Dance With The Waves , written in 2017.

3. “The sea is an underwater museum still awaiting its visitors.” — Philippe Diolé

Philippe Victor Diolé (1908-1977) was a French author and undersea explorer, best known for co-authoring seven of the 8-volume series The Undersea Discoveries of Jacques-Yves Cousteau .

4. “The sea always filled her with longing, though for what she was never sure.” — Cornelia Funke

Cornelia Maria Funke (1958-) is a German author and illustrator of children’s fiction. This ocean quote is from her 2003 young adult fantasy novel Inkheart , the first in a trilogy of the same name.

5. “My soul is full of longing for the secret of the sea, and the heart of the great ocean sends a thrilling pulse through me.” — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882) was an American poet and educator. One of the “fireside poets” from New England, Longfellow was the most popular American poet of his day. This quote about the sea is from his poem The Secret of the Sea , included in his 1850 book of poetry The Seaside and the Fireside .

6. “Take me to the ocean. Let me sail the open sea. To breathe the warm and salty air and dream of things to be.” — Erica Billups

Erica Billups is an Atlanta-based poet, artist, and blogger. She’s the owner and lead artist at Liberty & Lilac Paper Co , and the author of this favorite ocean quote.

7. “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” — Rabindranath Tagore

Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) was a Bengali writer, playwright, composer, philosopher, social reformer, painter, and one of India’s greatest poets. He was the first Asian writer to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, in 1913. This inspirational ocean quote is from his 1910 mystic play The King Of The Dark Chamber .

8. if the ocean can calm itself, so can you. we are both salt water mixed with air.” — Nayyirah Waheed

Reclusive poet and writer Nayyirah Waheed has been called “perhaps the most famous poet on Instagram” by Jet . She’s published two books of her minimalist poetry—this ocean quote is from her 2013 debut volume entitled  salt .

9. “The sea appears all golden, Beneath the sun-lit sky.” — Heinrich Heine

Christian Johann Heinrich Heine (1797–1856) was a German poet, writer, and literary critic. Heine is perhaps best known for his early lyric poems, many of which were set to music by composers including Schubert and Schumann. His quote about the sea comes from his romantic poem Seraphina , published in his 1827 Book of Songs .

10. “The sea does not like to be restrained.” — Rick Riordan

Richard Russell Riordan Jr. (1964-) is an American author best known for writing the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, about a teenager who discovers he’s the son of the Greek god Poseidon. This sea quote is from his 2005 novel The Lightning Thief , the first book in the series.

11. “To me the sea is a continual miracle; The fishes that swim—the rocks—the motion of the waves—the ships with men in them; What stranger miracles are there?”  — Walt Whitman

Walter Whitman (1819–1892) was an American humanist poet, essayist, and journalist. Whitman is one of the most influential American poets and is often called the father of free verse. His ocean quote is from the poem Miracles , first published in his 1856 volume Leaves of Grass .

12. “That the sea is one of the most beautiful and magnificent sights in Nature, all admit.”  — John Joly

John Joly (1857–1933) was an Irish physicist, professor of geology, and inventor, most famous for his development of radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Joly also developed the Joly color screen, the first successful process for producing color photographs from a single plate.

13. “The sea is a desert of waves, A wilderness of water.”  — Langston Hughes

James Mercer Langston Hughes (1901–1967) was an American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist. A leader of the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes was also an early innovator of jazz poetry. This ocean quote is from his poem Long Trip .

14. “To me, the sea is like a person — like a child that I’ve known a long time. It sounds crazy, I know, but when I swim in the sea I talk to it. I never feel alone when I’m out there.”  — Gertrude Ederle

Gertrude Caroline Ederle (1905–2003) was an American competition swimmer known as the “Queen of the Waves”. Ederle was an Olympic champion, former world record-holder in five events, and in 1926 became the first woman to swim across the English Channel.

15. “And the sea will grant each man new hope, as sleep brings dreams of home.”  — Larry Ferguson

Larry Ferguson is an American screenwriter and film director whose film credits include Highlander ,  Beverly Hills Cop II , and  Alien 3 . Although this sea quote is commonly misattributed to Christopher Columbus, Ferguson actually penned the words, delivered by Sean Connery at the end of the film The Hunt for Red October .

16. “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea. No matter where on Earth you live.”  — Sylvia Earle

Dr. Sylvia Alice Earle (1935-) is an American marine biologist, oceanographer, explorer, author, and lecturer. Earle was the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Since 1988, she’s been a National Geographic explorer-in-residence, and is also part of Ocean Elders , a group dedicated to protecting the ocean and its wildlife.

17. “Wouldst thou … learn the secret of the sea? Only those who brave its dangers, comprehend its mystery!”  — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882) was an American poet and educator. This quote about the ocean is from his poem The Secret of the Sea. It’s often misquoted as “Would you learn the secret of the sea?”, but the original line was “Wouldst thou, —so the helmsman answered; Learn the secret of the sea?”.

18. “For whatever we lose (like a you or a me), it’s always ourselves we find in the sea ” — E. E. Cummings

Edward Estlin Cummings (1894–1962) was an American modernist poet, painter, essayist, author, and playwright. This ocean quote comes from his 1956 poem maggie and milly and molly and may .

19. “The sea possesses a power over one’s moods that has the effect of a will. The sea can hypnotize. Nature in general can do so.”  — Henrik Ibsen

Henrik Johan Ibsen (1828–1906) was a Norwegian modernist playwright and theatre director, often referred to as the “father of realism”. After Shakespeare, Ibsen is the most frequently performed dramatist in the world. This sea quote is from his 1888 play The Lady from the Sea .

20. “There’s nothing wrong with enjoying looking at the surface of the ocean itself, except that when you finally see what goes on underwater, you realize that you’ve been missing the whole point of the ocean. Staying on the surface all the time is like going to the circus and staring at the outside of the tent.”  — Dave Barry

David McAlister Barry (1947-) is an American author and columnist. From 1983 until 2005, Barry wrote a nationally syndicated humor column for the  Miami Herald . He’s also written many books of humor and parody and several comic novels.

21. “How inappropriate to call this planet Earth when it is clearly Ocean.”  — Arthur C. Clarke

Sir Arthur Charles Clarke (1917–2008) was an English science-fiction writer, science writer, inventor, undersea explorer, and television host. Clarke co-wrote the screenplay for the 1968 film  2001: A Space Odyssey , one of the most influential films of all time. During the 1980s he hosted several television shows, including  Arthur C. Clarke’s Mysterious World .

22. “We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came…”  — John F. Kennedy

John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917–1963) was an American politician and the 35th president of the United States. As a young man, JFK and his family spent summers at their Cape Cod home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, where he enjoyed sailing and swimming in the ocean. This ocean quote is from Kennedy’s speech given at the dinner for the America’s Cup crews on September 14, 1962.

23. “Limitless and immortal, the waters are the beginning and end of all things on earth.”  — Heinrich Zimmer

Heinrich Robert Zimmer (1890–1943) was a German Indologist, linguist, and historian of South Asian art, Zimmer is best known for his works  Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization  and  Philosophies of India . He was one of the most important German scholars in Indian philology.

24. “The ocean makes me feel really small and it makes me put my whole life into perspective.”  — Beyoncé Knowles

Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter (1981-) is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. She’s one of the world’s best-selling recording artists, and was the first artist to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 with their first six solo studio albums. In 2020, Beyoncé was included on Time ‘s list of 100 women who defined the last century.

25. “The ocean has always been a salve to my soul…the best thing for a cut or abrasion was to go swimming in salt water. Later down the road of life, I made the discovery that salt water was also good for the mental abrasions one inevitably acquires on land.” — Jimmy Buffett

James William Buffett (1946-) is an American singer-songwriter, musician, author, actor, and businessman. Best known for his island-escapist music, Buffett is also a bestselling author as well as the owner of the Margaritaville restaurant chain. This ocean quote is from his 1988 autobiography A Pirate Looks at Fifty .

26. “In one drop of water are found all the secrets of all the oceans.”  — Kahlil Gibran

Gibran Khalil Gibran (1883–1931) was a Lebanese-American writer, poet, and visual artist. Gibran is best known for his 1923 inspirational fiction work The Prophet , one of the best-selling books of all time. This quote about the ocean is translated from his 1921 Arabic-language play Iram, City of Lofty Pillars .

27. “The calming movement of the sea along with the restless ocean breeze gently caresses me creating a soothing trance which lulls me to a place of peace.”  — M. L. Borges

M. L. Borges is a visual artist, poet, and author who writes in various genres, including mystery and romance. This quote about the ocean is from By The Sea , a 2013 collection of paintings and quotes.

28. “We must free ourselves of the hope that the sea will ever rest. We must learn to sail in high winds.”  — Aristotle Onassis

Aristotle Socrates Onassis (1906–1975) was a Greek shipping magnate. He owned the world’s largest privately-owned shipping fleet at the time and was one of the world’s richest men. Onassis was well known for marrying former US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, leading to her nickname of “Jackie O”.

29. “ The sea does not reward those  who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient … One  should  lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach—waiting for a gift from  the sea .”  — Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Anne Spencer Morrow Lindbergh (1906–2001) was an American author and aviator. She was the wife of aviation pioneer Charles Lindbergh, and they made many exploratory flights together. This sea quote is from her 1955 book Gift from the Sea , an inspirational volume for women that foreshadowed the green movement.

30. “They are ill discoverers that think there is no land, when they can see nothing but sea.”  — Francis Bacon

Francis Bacon, 1st Viscount St Alban (1561–1626) was an English philosopher and statesman who served as Attorney General, as temporary Regent of England (for a month in 1617), and later as Lord Chancellor of England. Bacon was an influential figure during the scientific revolution, and his works helped develop the scientific method.

31. “The sea lives in every one of us.”  — Robert Wyland

Robert Wyland (1956-), known simply as Wyland, is an American artist and conservationist best known for his Whaling Walls, a series of over 100 large outdoor murals featuring life-size images of whales and other sea creatures.

Fun fact for cruise fans: Wyland designed and painted a massive mural on the hull of Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s Norwegian Bliss , launched in 2018, featuring images of his trademark life-sized whales.

32. “But where, after all, would be the poetry of the sea were there no wild waves?”  — Joshua Slocum

Joshua Slocum (1844–1909) was a Canadian-American writer, sailor, and adventurer. The first person to sail single-handedly around the world, he wrote a book in 1900, Sailing Alone Around the World , about his journey aboard his sloop the Spray . The book—where this ocean quote is taken from—was an international best-seller. Slocum disappeared in November 1909 while aboard his boat and was presumed lost at sea.

33. “Great sea captains are made in rough waters and deep seas.”  — Kathryn Kuhlman

Kathryn Kuhlman (1907–1976) was an American evangelist known for hosting healing services. She traveled the US extensively and around the world between the 1940s and 1970s, holding “healing crusades”. In the 60s and 70s, Kuhlman hosted I Believe In Miracles , a weekly television program that was aired nationally in the United States.

34. “The human heart is like a ship on a stormy sea driven about by winds blowing from all four corners of heaven.”  — Martin Luther

Martin Luther (1483–1546) was a German professor of theology, priest, author, composer, Augustinian monk, and an important figure in the Protestant Reformation. This ocean quote comes from the preface to his 1545 Commentary on the Psalms . This quote is often misattributed to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., leader of the American civil rights movement in the 1950s and 60s.

35. “What world lies beyond that stormy sea I do not know, but every ocean has a distant shore, and I shall reach it.”  — Cesare Pavese

Cesare Pavese (1908–1950) was an Italian novelist, poet, essayist, short story writer, translator, and literary critic. Although he destroyed many of his personal papers before his death, his diaries (which include this quote) remain and were published as This Business of Living: Diaries 1935-1950 .

36. “The sea is as near as we come to another world.”  — Anne Stevenson

Anne Stevenson (1933–2020) was an American-British poet and writer. Stevenson was the author of over a dozen volumes of poetry, books of essays, and literary criticism. In 2007, she was awarded the Lannan Lifetime Achievement Award for Poetry, and the Poetry Foundation’s Neglected Masters Award. This ocean quote is from her 1977 poem North Sea off Carnoustie .

37. “As the sea is beautiful not only in calm but also in storm, so is happiness found not only in peace but also in strife. ” —  Ivan Panin

Ivan Nikolayevich Panin (1855–1942) was a Russian writer and lecturer. After his exile from Russia, Panin emigrated first to Germany and then to the US. Today Panin is best known for claiming to discover numerical patterns in the text of the Hebrew and Greek Bibles. This sea quote is included in his 1899 book, Thoughts .

38. “The voice of the sea speaks to the soul. The touch of the sea is sensuous, enfolding the body in its soft, close embrace.”  — Kate Chopin

Katherine O’Flaherty Chopin (1850–1904) was an American short story writer and novelist. Chopin is one of the most frequently read and recognized writers of Louisiana Creole heritage. This ocean quote is from The Awakening , her second novel.

39. “The heart of man is very much like the sea, it has its storms, it has its tides and in its depths, it has its pearls too.”  — Vincent van Gogh

Vincent Willem van Gogh (1853–1890) was a Dutch post-impressionist painter who became one of the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. This inspirational ocean quote is from The Letters of Vincent van Gogh , a collection of over 900 of his personal letters and related manuscripts.

40. “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.”  — Robert Wyland

For more inspiring quotes and captions about the sea and sailing, be sure to check out:

• 80+ Perfect Ocean and Sea Captions for Instagram
• 22 Inspirational Cruise Travel Quotes (With Photos)
• 150+ Perfect Beach Captions for Instagram

What are your favorite ocean quotes? Is there one I listed that speaks to you, or do you have another quote about the sea that inspires you? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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Michelle Latinovich

Thursday 14th of October 2021

What a lovely and very detailed list of ocean quotes for everyone to enjoy! Thank you for your hard work at compiling these!

Sunday 17th of October 2021

Hi Michelle, I'm so glad you enjoyed my favorite ocean quotes! Thanks for your kind comment :)

Monday 26th of July 2021

Fantastic quotes. These would be lovely done up in a poster for a boat or someone who loves cruises.

Tuesday 27th of July 2021

Hi Nyxie, that's a great idea! Glad you liked my list of ocean quotes :)

Grasyah [Of Coffee and Crackers]

Saturday 24th of July 2021

Saving up some for sharing! Lovely quotes!

Sunday 25th of July 2021

Hi Grasyah, thanks so much for stopping by and commenting! :)

Emman Damian

Friday 23rd of July 2021

Great list of quotes. I can resonate with all of it. I like “Dance with the waves, move with the sea. Let the rhythm of the water set your soul free.” So true!

Hi Emman, glad you liked the ocean quotes! That one is a perennial favorite :)

Thursday 22nd of July 2021

Love these quotes! I'd love to get back out on the sea soon.

Hi Alexis, I hope you're able to enjoy the ocean soon!

A Timeline of the Sinking of the Titanic

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From the time of its inception, the Titanic was meant to be gigantic, luxurious and safe. It was touted as being unsinkable because of its system of watertight compartments and doors, which of course proved to be just a myth. Follow the history of the Titanic, from its beginnings in a shipyard to its end at the bottom of the sea, in this timeline of the building of the ship through its maiden (and only) voyage. In the early morning hours of April 15, 1912, all but 705 of its 2,229 passengers and crew lost their lives in the icy Atlantic .

The Building of the Titanic

March 31, 1909: Construction of the Titanic begins with the building of the keel, the backbone of the ship, at Harland & Wolff's shipyard in Belfast, Ireland.

May 31, 1911: The unfinished Titanic is lathered up with soap and pushed into the water for "fitting out." Fitting out is the installation of all the extras, some on the exterior, like the smokestacks and the propellers, and a lot on the inside, like the electrical systems, wall coverings, and furniture.

June 14, 1911: The Olympic, sister ship to the Titanic, departs on its maiden voyage.

April 2, 1912: The Titanic leaves the dock for sea trials, which include tests of speed, turns, and an emergency stop. At about 8 p.m., after the sea trials, the Titanic heads to Southampton, England.

The Maiden Voyage Begins

April 3 to 10, 1912: The Titanic is loaded with supplies and her crew is hired.

April 10, 1912: From 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., passengers board the ship. Then at noon, the Titanic leaves the dock at Southhampton for its maiden voyage. First stop is in Cherbourg, France, where the Titanic arrives at 6:30 p.m. and leaves at 8:10 p.m, heading to Queenstown, Ireland (now known as Cobh). It is carrying 2,229 passengers and crew.

April 11, 1912: At 1:30 p.m., the Titanic leaves Queenstown and begins its fated journey across the Atlantic for New York.

April 12 and 13, 1912: The Titanic is at sea, continuing on her journey as passengers enjoy the pleasures of the luxurious ship.

April 14, 1912 (9:20 p.m.): The Titanic's captain, Edward Smith, retires to his room.

April 14, 1912 (9:40 p.m.) : The last of seven warnings about icebergs is received in the wireless room. This warning never makes it to the bridge.

Last Hours of the Titanic

April 14, 1912 (11:40 p.m.): Two hours after the last warning, ship lookout Frederick Fleet spotted an iceberg directly in the path of the Titanic. The first officer, Lt. William McMaster Murdoch, orders a hard starboard (left) turn, but the Titanic's right side scrapes the iceberg. Only 37 seconds passed between the sighting of the iceberg and hitting it.

April 14, 1912 (11:50 p.m.): Water had entered the front part of the ship and risen to a level of 14 feet.

April 15, 1912 (12 a.m.): Captain Smith learns the ship can stay afloat for only two hours and gives orders to make first radio calls for help.

April 15, 1912 (12:05 a.m.): Captain Smith orders the crew to prepare the lifeboats and get the passengers and crew up on deck. There is only room in the lifeboats for about half the passengers and crew onboard. Women and children were put into the lifeboats first.

April 15, 1912 (12:45 a.m.): The first lifeboat is lowered into the freezing water.

April 15, 1912 (2:05 a.m.) The last lifeboat is lowered into the Atlantic. More than 1,500 people are still on the Titanic, now sitting at a steep tilt.

April 15, 1912 (2:18 a.m.): The last radio message is sent and the Titanic snaps in half.

April 15, 1912 (2:20 a.m.): The Titanic sinks.

Rescue of Survivors

April 15, 1912 (4:10 a.m.) : The Carpathia, which was about 58 miles southeast of the Titanic at the time it heard the distress call, picks up the first of the survivors.

April 15, 1912 (8:50 a.m.): The Carpathia picks up survivors from the last lifeboat and heads for New York.

April 17, 1912: The Mackay-Bennett is the first of several ships to travel to the area where the Titanic sank to search for bodies.

April 18, 1912: The Carpathia arrives in New York with 705 survivors.

April 19 to May 25, 1912: The United States Senate holds hearings about the disaster; the Senate findings include questions about why there were not more lifeboats on the Titanic.

May 2 to July 3, 1912: The British Board of Trade holds an inquiry into the Titanic disaster. It was discovered during this inquiry that the last ice message was the only one that warned of an iceberg directly in the path of the Titanic, and it was believed that if the captain had gotten the warning that he would have changed course in time for the disaster to be avoided.

Sept. 1, 1985: Robert Ballard's expedition team discovers the wreck of the Titanic .

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All About the Ocean

The ocean covers 70 percent of Earth's surface.

Biology, Earth Science, Oceanography, Geography, Physical Geography

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This article is also available in Spanish .

The ocean covers 70 percent of Earth 's surface. It contains about 1.35 billion cubic kilometers (324 million cubic miles) of water, which is about 97 percent of all the water on Earth. The ocean makes all life on Earth possible, and makes the planet appear blue when viewed from space. Earth is the only planet in our solar system that is definitely known to contain liquid water. Although the ocean is one continuous body of water, oceanographers have divided it into five principal areas: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic, and Southern Oceans. The Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans merge into icy waters around Antarctica. Climate The ocean plays a vital role in climate and weather . The sun’s heat causes water to evaporate , adding moisture to the air. The oceans provide most of this evaporated water. The water vapor condenses to form clouds, which release their moisture as rain or other kinds of precipitation . All life on Earth depends on this process, called the water cycle . The atmosphere receives much of its heat from the ocean. As the sun warms the water, the ocean transfers heat to the atmosphere. In turn, the atmosphere distributes the heat around the globe. Because water absorbs and loses heat more slowly than land masses, the ocean helps balance global temperatures by absorbing heat in the summer and releasing it in the winter. Without the ocean to help regulate global temperatures, Earth’s climate would be bitterly cold. Ocean Formation After Earth began to form about 4.6 billion years ago, it gradually separated into layers of lighter and heavier rock. The lighter rock rose and formed Earth’s crust . The heavier rock sank and formed Earth’s core and mantle . The ocean’s water came from rocks inside the newly forming Earth. As the molten rocks cooled, they released water vapor and other gases. Eventually, the water vapor condensed and covered the crust with a primitive ocean. Today, hot gases from the Earth’s interior continue to produce new water at the bottom of the ocean. Ocean Floor Scientists began mapping the ocean floor in the 1920s. They used instruments called echo sounders , which measure water depths using sound waves . Echo sounders use sonar technology. Sonar is an acronym for SOund Navigation And Ranging. The sonar showed that the ocean floor has dramatic physical features, including huge mountains, deep canyons , steep cliffs , and wide plains . The ocean’s crust is a thin layer of volcanic rock called basalt . The ocean floor is divided into several different areas. The first is the continental shelf , the nearly flat, underwater extension of a continent. Continental shelves vary in width. They are usually wide along low-lying land, and narrow along mountainous coasts. A shelf is covered in sediment from the nearby continent. Some of the sediment is deposited by rivers and trapped by features such as natural dams. Most sediment comes from the last glacial period , or Ice Age, when the oceans receded and exposed the continental shelf. This sediment is called relict sediment . At the outer edge of the continental shelf, the land drops off sharply in what is called the continental slope . The slope descends almost to the bottom of the ocean. Then it tapers off into a gentler slope known as the continental rise. The continental rise descends to the deep ocean floor, which is called the abyssal plain . Abyssal plains are broad, flat areas that lie at depths of about 4,000 to 6,000 meters (13,123 to 19,680 feet). Abyssal plains cover 30 percent of the ocean floor and are the flattest feature on Earth. They are covered by fine-grained sediment like clay and silt. Pelagic sediments, the remains of small ocean organisms, also drift down from upper layers of the ocean. Scattered across abyssal plains are abyssal hills and underwater volcanic peaks called seamounts. Rising from the abyssal plains in each major ocean is a huge chain of mostly undersea mountains. Called the mid-ocean ridge , the chain circles Earth, stretching more than 64,000 kilometers (40,000 miles). Much of the mid-ocean ridge is split by a deep central rift, or crack. Mid-ocean ridges mark the boundaries between tectonic plates . Molten rock from Earth’s interior wells up from the rift, building new seafloor in a process called seafloor spreading . A major portion of the ridge runs down the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is known as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. It was not directly seen or explored until 1973. Some areas of the ocean floor have deep, narrow depressions called ocean trenches . They are the deepest parts of the ocean. The deepest spot of all is the Challenger Deep , which lies in the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean near the island of Guam. Its true depth is not known, but the most accurate measurements put the Challenger Deep at 11,000 meters (36,198 feet) below the ocean’s surface—that’s more than 2,000 meters (6,000 feet) taller than Mount Everest, Earth’s highest point. The pressure in the Challenger Deep is about eight tons per square inch.

Ocean Life Zones From the shoreline to the deepest seafloor, the ocean teems with life. The hundreds of thousands of marine species range from microscopic algae to the largest creature to have ever lived on Earth, the blue whale. The ocean has five major life zones, each with organisms uniquely adapted to their specific marine ecosystem . The epipelagic zone (1) is the sunlit upper layer of the ocean. It reaches from the surface to about 200 meters (660 feet) deep. The epipelagic zone is also known as the photic or euphotic zone, and can exist in lakes as well as the ocean. The sunlight in the epipelagic zone allows photosynthesis to occur. Photosynthesis is the process by which some organisms convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into energy and oxygen . In the ocean, photosynthesis takes place in plants and algae. Plants such as seagrass are similar to land plants—they have roots, stems, and leaves. Algae is a type of aquatic organism that can photosynthesize sunlight. Large algae such as kelp are called seaweed . Phytoplankton also live in the epipelagic zone. Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that include plants, algae, and bacteria. They are only visible when billions of them form algal blooms , and appear as green or blue splotches in the ocean. Phytoplankton are a basis of the ocean food web . Through photosynthesis, phytoplankton are responsible for almost half the oxygen released into Earth’s atmosphere. Animals such as krill (a type of shrimp), fish, and microscopic organisms called zooplankton all eat phytoplankton. In turn, these animals are eaten by whales, bigger fish, ocean birds, and human beings. The next zone down, stretching to about 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) deep, is the mesopelagic zone (2). This zone is also known as the twilight zone because the light there is very dim. The lack of sunlight means there are no plants in the mesopelagic zone, but large fish and whales dive there to hunt prey . Fish in this zone are small and luminous . One of the most common is the lanternfish, which has organs along its side that produce light. Sometimes, animals from the mesopelagic zone (such as sperm whales ( Physeter macrocephalus ) and squid) dive into the bathypelagic zone (3), which reaches to about 4,000 meters (13,100 feet) deep. The bathypelagic zone is also known as the midnight zone because no light reaches it. Animals that live in the bathypelagic zone are small, but they often have huge mouths, sharp teeth, and expandable stomachs that let them eat any food that comes along. Most of this food comes from the remains of plants and animals drifting down from upper pelagic zones. Many bathypelagic animals do not have eyes because they are unneeded in the dark. Because the pressure is so great and it is so difficult to find nutrients , fish in the bathypelagic zone move slowly and have strong gills to extract oxygen from the water. The water at the bottom of the ocean, the abyssopelagic zone (4), is very salty and cold (2 degrees Celsius, or 35 degrees Fahrenheit). At depths up to 6,000 meters (19,700 feet), the pressure is very strong—11,000 pounds per square inch. This makes it impossible for most animals to live. Animals in this zone have bizarre adaptations to cope with their ecosystem. Many fish have jaws that look unhinged. The jaws allow them to drag their open mouth along the seafloor to find food, such as mussels, shrimp, and microscopic organisms. Many of the animals in this zone, including squid and fish, are bioluminescent. Bioluminescent organisms produce light through chemical reactions in their bodies. A type of angler fish, for example, has a glowing growth extending in front of its huge, toothy mouth. When smaller fish are attracted to the light, the angler fish simply snaps its jaws to eat its prey. The deepest ocean zone, found in trenches and canyons, is called the hadalpelagic zone (5). Few organisms live here. They include tiny isopods , a type of crustacean related to crabs and shrimp. Invertebrates such as sponges and sea cucumbers thrive in the abyssopelagic and hadalpelagic zones. Like many sea stars and jellyfish, these animals are almost entirely dependent on falling parts of dead or decaying plants and animals, called marine detritus . Not all bottom dwellers, however, depend on marine detritus. In 1977, oceanographers discovered a community of creatures on the ocean floor that feed on bacteria around openings called hydrothermal vents. These vents discharge superheated water enriched with minerals from Earth’s interior. The minerals nourish unique bacteria, which in turn nourish creatures such as crabs, clams, and tube worms. Ocean Currents Currents are streams of water running through a larger body of water. Oceans, rivers, and streams have currents. The ocean’s salinity and temperature and the coast’s geographic features determine an ocean current’s behavior. Earth’s rotation and wind also influence ocean currents. Currents flowing near the surface transport heat from the tropics to the poles and move cooler water back toward the Equator . This keeps the ocean from becoming extremely hot or cold. Deep, cold currents transport oxygen to organisms throughout the ocean. They also carry rich supplies of nutrients that all living things need. The nutrients come from plankton and the remains of other organisms that drift down and decay on the ocean floor. Along some coasts, winds and currents produce a phenomenon called upwelling . As winds push surface water away from shore, deep currents of cold water rise to take its place. This upwelling of deep water brings up nutrients that nourish new growth of plankton, providing food for fish. Ocean food chains constantly recycle food and energy this way.

Some ocean currents are enormous and extremely powerful. One of the most powerful is the Gulf Stream , a warm surface current that originates in the tropical Caribbean Sea and flows northeast along the eastern coast of the United States. The Gulf Stream measures up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) wide and is more than a kilometer (3,281 feet) deep. Like other ocean currents, the Gulf Stream plays a major role in climate. As the current travels north, it transfers moisture from its warm tropical waters to the air above. Westerly, or prevailing, winds carry the warm, moist air to the British Isles and to Scandinavia , causing them to have milder winters than they otherwise would experience at their northern latitudes . Northern parts of Norway are near the Arctic Circle but remain ice-free for most of the year because of the Gulf Stream. The weather pattern known as El Niño includes a change to the Humboldt Current (also called the Peru Current) off the western coast of South America. In El Niño conditions, a current of warm surface water travels east along the Equator and prevents the normal upwelling of the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current. El Niño, which can devastate the fisheries of Peru and Ecuador, occurs every two to seven years, usually in December. The paths of ocean currents are partially determined by Earth’s rotation. This is known as the Coriolis effect . It causes large systems, such as winds and ocean currents that would normally move in a straight line, to veer to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere . People and the Ocean For thousands of years, people have depended on the ocean as a source of food and as a route for trade and exploration . Today, people continue to travel on the ocean and rely on the resources it contains. Nations continue to negotiate how to determine the extent of their territory beyond the coast. The United Nations’ Law of the Sea treaty established exclusive economic zones (EEZs), extending 200 nautical miles (230 miles) beyond a nation’s coastline. Even though some countries have not signed or ratified the treaty (including the U.S.), it is regarded as standard. Russia has proposed extending its EEZ beyond 200 nautical miles because two mid-ocean ridges, the Lomonosov and Medeleev Ridges, are extensions of the continental shelf belonging to Russia. This territory includes the North Pole. Russian explorers in a submersible vehicle planted a metal Russian flag on the disputed territory in 2007. Through the centuries, people have sailed the ocean on trade routes . Today, ships still carry most of the world’s freight , particularly bulky goods such as machinery, grain, and oil . Ocean ports are areas of commerce and culture. Water and land transportation meet there, and so do people of different professions: businesspeople who import and export goods and services; dockworkers who load and unload cargo ; and ships’ crews. Ports also have a high concentration of migrants and immigrants with a wide variety of ethnicities, nationalities, languages, and religions. Important ports in the U.S. are New York/ New Jersey and New Orleans. The busiest ports around the world include the Port of Shanghai in China and the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Ocean ports are also important for a nation’s armed forces. Some ports are used exclusively for military purposes, although most share space with commercial businesses. “The sun never sets on the British Empire” is a phrase used to explain the scope of the empire of Great Britain , mostly in the 19th century. Although based on the small European island nation of Great Britain, British military sea power extended its empire from Africa to the Americas, Asia, and Australia. Scientists and other experts hope the ocean will be used more widely as a source of renewable energy . Some countries have already harnessed the energy of ocean waves, temperature, currents, or tides to power turbines and generate electricity. One source of renewable energy are generators that are powered by tidal streams or ocean currents. They convert the movement of currents into energy. Ocean current generators have not been developed on a large scale, but are working in some places in Ireland and Norway. Some conservationists criticize the impact the large constructions have on the marine environment. Another source of renewable energy is ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). It uses the difference in temperature between the warm, surface water and cold, deep water to run an engine. OTEC facilities exist in places with significant differences in ocean depth: Japan, India and the U.S. state of Hawai'i, for instance. An emerging source of renewable energy is salinity gradient power , also known as osmotic power. It is an energy source that uses the power of freshwater entering into saltwater. This technology is still being developed, but it has potential in delta areas where fresh river water is constantly interacting with the ocean. Fishing Fishers catch more than 90 million tons of seafood each year, including more than 100 species of fish and shellfish . Millions of people, from professional fishers to business owners like restaurant owners and boat builders, depend on fisheries for their livelihood . Fishing can be classified in two ways. In subsistence fishing, fishers use their catch to help meet the nutritional needs of their families or communities. In commercial fishing , fishers sell their catch for money, goods or services. Popular subsistence and commercial fish are tuna, cod, and shrimp. Ocean fishing is also a popular recreational sport. Sport fishing can be competitive or noncompetitive. In sport fishing tournaments, individuals or teams compete for prizes based on the size of a particular species caught in a specific time period. Both competitive and noncompetitive sport fishers need licenses to fish, and may or may not keep the caught fish. Increasingly, sport fishers practice catch-and-release fishing, where a fish is caught, measured, weighed, and often recorded on film before being released back to the ocean. Popular game fish (fish caught for sport) are tuna and marlin. Whaling is a type of fishing that involves the harvesting of whales and dolphins. It has declined in popularity since the 19th century but is still a way of life for many cultures, such as those in Scandinavia, Japan, Canada, and the Caribbean. The ocean offers a wealth of fishing and whaling resources, but these resources are threatened. People have harvested so much fish and marine life for food and other products that some species have disappeared. During the 1800s and early 1900s, whalers killed thousands of whales for whale oil (wax made from boiled blubber ) and ivory (whales’ teeth). Some species, including the blue whale ( Balaenoptera musculus ) and the right whale, were hunted nearly to extinction . Many species are still endangered today. In the 1960s and 1970s, catches of important food fish, such as herring in the North Sea and anchovies in the Pacific, began to drop off dramatically. Governments took notice of overfishing —harvesting more fish than the ecosystem can replenish . Fishers were forced to go farther out to sea to find fish, putting them at risk. (Deep-sea fishing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world.) Now, they use advanced equipment, such as electronic fish finders and large gill nets or trawling nets, to catch more fish. This means there are far fewer fish to reproduce and replenish the supply. In 1992, the collapse, or disappearance, of cod in Canada’s Newfoundland Grand Banks put 40,000 fishers out of work. A ban was placed on cod fishing, and to this day, neither the cod nor the fisheries have recovered. To catch the dwindling numbers of fish, most fishers use trawl nets. They drag the nets along the seabed and across acres of ocean. These nets accidentally catch many small, young fish and mammals. Animals caught in fishing nets meant for other species are called bycatch . The fishing industry and fisheries management agencies argue about how to address the problem of bycatch and overfishing. Those involved in the fishing industry do not want to lose their jobs, while conservationists want to maintain healthy levels of fish in the ocean. A number of consumers are choosing to purchase sustainable seafood . Sustainable seafood is harvested from sources (either wild or farmed) that do not deplete the natural ecosystem. Mining and Drilling Many minerals come from the ocean. Sea salt is a mineral that has been used as a flavoring and preservative since ancient times. Sea salt has many additional minerals, such as calcium, that ordinary table salt lacks. Hydrothermal vents often form seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits , which contain precious metals. These SMS deposits sit on the ocean floor, sometimes in the deep ocean and sometimes closer to the surface. New techniques are being developed to mine the seafloor for valuable minerals such as copper, lead, nickel, gold, and silver. Mining companies employ thousands of people and provide goods and services for millions more. Critics of undersea mining maintain that it disrupts the local ecology . Organisms—corals, shrimp, mussels—that live on the seabed have their habitat disturbed, upsetting the food chain. In addition, destruction of habitat threatens the viability of species that have a narrow niche . Maui’s dolphin ( Cephalorhynchus hectori maui ), for instance, is a critically endangered species native to the waters of New Zealand’s North Island. The numbers of Maui’s dolphin are already reduced because of bycatch. Seabed mining threatens its habitat, putting it at further risk of extinction. Oil is one of the most valuable resources taken from the ocean today. Offshore oil rigs pump petroleum from wells drilled into the continental shelf. About one-quarter of all oil and natural gas supplies now comes from offshore oil deposits around the world. Offshore drilling requires complex engineering . An oil platform can be constructed directly onto the ocean floor, or it can “float” above an anchor. Depending on how far out on the continental shelf an oil platform is located, workers may have to be flown in. Underwater, or subsea, facilities are complicated groups of drilling equipment connected to each other and a single oil rig. Subsea production often requires remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs). Some countries invest in offshore drilling for profit and to prevent reliance on oil from other regions. The Gulf of Mexico near the U.S. states of Texas and Louisiana is heavily drilled. Several European countries, including the United Kingdom, Denmark, and the Netherlands, drill in the North Sea. Offshore drilling is a complicated and expensive program, however. There are a limited number of companies that have the knowledge and resources to work with local governments to set up offshore oil rigs. Most of these companies are based in Europe and North America, although they do business all over the world. Some governments have banned offshore oil drilling. They cite safety and environmental concerns. There have been several accidents where the platform itself has exploded, at the cost of many lives. Offshore drilling also poses threats to the ocean ecosystem. Spills and leaks from oil rigs and oil tankers that transport the material seriously harm marine mammals and birds. Oil coats feathers, impairing birds’ ability to maintain their body temperature and remain buoyant in the water. The fur of otters and seals are also coated, and oil entering the digestive tract of animals may damage their organs. Offshore oil rigs also release metal cuttings, minute amounts of oil, and drilling fluid into the ocean every day. Drilling fluid is the liquid used with machinery to drill holes deep in the planet. This liquid can contain pollutants such as toxic chemicals and heavy metals . Pollution Most oil pollution does not come from oil spills, however. It comes from the runoff of pollutants into streams and rivers that flow into the ocean. Most runoff comes from individual consumers. Cars, buses, motorcycles, and even lawn mowers spill oil and grease on roads, streets, and highways. (Runoff is what makes busy roads shiny and sometimes slippery.) Storm drains or creeks wash the runoff into local waterways, which eventually flow into the ocean. The largest U.S. oil spill in the ocean took place in Alaska in 1989, by the tanker Exxon Valdez . The Exxon Valdez spilled at least 10 million gallons of oil into Prince William Sound. In comparison, American and Canadian consumers spill about 16 million gallons of oil runoff into the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans every year. For centuries, people have used the ocean as a dumping ground for sewage and other wastes. In the 21st century, the wastes include not only oil, but also chemical runoff from factories and agriculture . These chemicals include nitrates and phosphates , which are often used as fertilizers . These chemicals encourage algae blooms. An algae bloom is an increase in algae and bacteria that threatens plants and other marine life. Algae blooms limit the amount of oxygen in a marine environment, leading to what are known as dead zones , where little life exists beneath the ocean’s surface. Algae blooms can spread across hundreds or even thousands of miles. Another source of pollution is plastics . Most ocean debris, or garbage, is plastic thrown out by consumers. Plastics such as water bottles, bags, six-pack rings, and packing material put marine life at risk. Sea animals are harmed by the plastic either by getting tangled in it or by eating it. An example of marine pollution consisting mainly of plastics is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch . The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a floating dump in the North Pacific. It’s about twice the size of Texas and probably contains about 100 million tons of debris. Most of this debris comes from the western coast of North America (the U.S. and Canada) and the eastern coast of Asia (Japan, China, Russia, North Korea, and South Korea). Because of ocean currents and weather patterns, the patch is a relatively stable formation and contains new and disintegrating debris. The smaller pieces of plastic debris are eaten by jellyfish or other organisms, and are then consumed by larger predators in the food web. These plastic chemicals may then enter a human’s diet through fish or shellfish. Another source of pollution is carbon dioxide. The ocean absorbs most carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide, which is necessary for life, is known as a greenhouse gas and traps radiation in Earth’s atmosphere. Carbon dioxide forms many acids, called carbonic acids , in the ocean. Ocean ecosystems have adapted to the presence of certain levels of carbonic acids, but the increase in carbon dioxide has led to an increase in ocean acids. This ocean acidification erodes the shells of animals such as clams, crabs, and corals. Global Warming Global warming contributes to rising ocean temperatures and sea levels . Warmer oceans radically alter the ecosystem. Global warming causes cold-water habitats to shrink, meaning there is less room for animals such as penguins, seals, or whales. Plankton, the base of the ocean food chain, thrives in cold water. Warming water means there will be less plankton available for marine life to eat. Melting glaciers and ice sheets contribute to sea level rise . Rising sea levels threaten coastal ecosystems and property. River deltas and estuaries are put at risk for flooding. Coasts are more likely to suffer erosion . Seawater more often contaminates sources of fresh water. All these consequences—flooding, erosion, water contamination—put low-lying island nations, such as the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, at high risk for disaster. To find ways to protect the ocean from pollution and the effects of climate change, scientists from all over the world are cooperating in studies of ocean waters and marine life. They are also working together to control pollution and limit global warming. Many countries are working to reach agreements on how to manage and harvest ocean resources. Although the ocean is vast, it is more easily polluted and damaged than people once thought. It requires care and protection as well as expert management. Only then can it continue to provide the many resources that living things—including people—need.

The Most Coast . . . Canada has 202,080 kilometers (125,567 miles) of coastline. Short But Sweet . . . Monaco has four kilometers (2.5 miles) of coastline.

No, the Toilet Doesn't Flush Backward in Australia The Coriolis effect, which can be seen in large-scale phenomena like trade winds and ocean currents, cannot be duplicated in small basins like sinks.

Extraterrestrial Oceans Mars probably had oceans billions of years ago, but ice and dry seabeds are all that remain today. Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, is probably covered by an ocean of water more than 96 kilometers (60 miles) deep, but it is trapped beneath a layer of ice, which the warmer water below frequently cracks. One of Saturn's moons, Enceladus, has cryovolcanism, or ice volcanoes. Instead of erupting with lava, ice volcanoes erupt with water, ammonia, or methane. Ice volcanoes may indicate oceanic activity.

International Oil Spill The largest oil spill in history, the Gulf War oil spill, released at least 40 million gallons of oil into the Persian Gulf. Valves at the Sea Island oil terminal in Kuwait were opened on purpose after Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1991. The oil was intended to stop a landing by U.S. Marines, but the oil drifted south to the shores of Saudi Arabia. A study of the Gulf War oil spill (conducted by the United Nations, several countries in the Middle East and the United States) found that most of the spilled oil evaporated and caused little damage to the environment.

Ocean Seas The floors of the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea are more like the ocean than other seas they do not rest on a continent, but directly on the ocean's basalt crust.

Early Ocean Explorers Polynesian people navigated a region of the Pacific Ocean now known as the Polynesian Triangle by 700 C.E. The corners of the Polynesian Triangle are islands: the American state of Hawai'i, the country of New Zealand, and the Chilean territory of Easter Island (also known as Rapa Nui). The distance between Easter Island and New Zealand, the longest length of the Polynesian Triangle, is one-quarter of Earth's circumference, more than 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles). Polynesians successfully traveled these distances in canoes. It would be hundreds of years before another culture explored the ocean to this extent.

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• ADVENTURERS OF THE YEAR

The Circumnavigator: Jessica Watson

Jessica Watson sailed around the world, alone, as a teenager.

Before Jessica Watson steered her 34-foot yacht across four oceans, circling the globe without stopping once, her yacht had a collision with a 63,000-ton bulk carrier during the first night of a sea trial. Her boat, Ella’s Pink Lady , lost its mast. Her quest to sail around the world before her 17th birthday was already controversial, and the collision only seemed to strengthen the arguments against the young Australian—that she was too young, too inexperienced, and too immature. (These were also directed at Watson’s parents and two other young wannabe circumnavigators, siblings Zak and Abby Sunderland.) But Watson, who was raised on sailboats and is more poised than most, quietly returned to port, tended to her broken ship, and returned to sea. “Any doubts about whether I could cope mentally,” Watson later wrote, “vanished…I was stronger, more determined, and ready….”

On May 15, 2010, after 210 days, the smiling 16-year-old arrived in Sydney Harbor, the youngest single-handed, non-stop, unassisted circumnavigator of all time. This, too, would become controversial, for detractors took Watson to task for not sailing far enough into the Northern Hemisphere. No matter. Tens of thousands of fans came out to greet her triumphant return to Australia, while millions watched on national television. But perhaps more impressive were the numbers of people following her journey in real time, through her blog. Watson once wrote: “I could write about a fly landing on Ella's Pink Lady and someone would find it interesting.” And 447 encouraging comments followed.

—By Ryan Bradley

IN MY OWN WORDS By Jessica Watson

I’m on boats all the time, just hanging around marinas, shipyards, studying every part of a boat, and celestial navigation, too. Before I left, the longest voyage I’d been on was 14 days straight, though I had almost 10,000 miles sea time through the Tasman, Pacific, and the Southern Arctic Oceans.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Team Jess For me, the most important thing was preparation and the amazing team of people around me, who just wouldn’t have let me leave unless I was ready. You need an incredible amount of support to achieve something like this, and I was lucky. I’m not saying everyone should go out and sail around the world.

Downside Up In the Atlantic, the boat rolled over four times during one storm. The third wave had me worried—I got picked up 180 degrees upside down and then thrown into the trough of another wave. It kind of makes you think: How big must that wave have been to do that? There wasn’t a lot I could do, in a situation like that, except hunker down, hold on to anything and everything, and stand on the ceiling.

Best Moments The Pacific was easy sailing, smooth and fun. In the Southern Ocean, around Cape Horn, the albatrosses were just amazing, surfing down the face of the waves. One of the great things about sailing is no two days are really the same. Some days I was getting as much sleep as I could, just reading, keeping up with schoolwork, maintenance, and keeping in touch with home. Winding Down In the last week, crossing the Tasman Sea, there were lightning storms and the wind was gusting 50 knots, but I couldn’t have cared in the slightest. I was out there doing what I loved, preparing for an amazing welcome. Honestly, I wanted to keep going, to keep sailing. Nothing could have killed that buzz. The Point Before I left, I remember being asked by someone, “How can you possibly know what’s going to happen?” Well, of course you can’t. You do your best to prepare, but it is an adventure. You can’t fully prepare—that’s the point. Driving, Schoolwork, Still Sailing After I finished, I sailed Pink Lady back up home and since then I don’t think I’ve spent two weeks in the same place. I haven’t been home in a few months, and on the road I’m learning to drive and doing homeschooling. People say that it’s too bad I’ve been robbed of being a normal teenager, but what’s normal?

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• CIRCUMNAVIGATION
• ADVENTURERS

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A Journey of Sea and Stone: How Holy Places Guide and Renew Us (Regnum Studies in Mission) Paperback – Illustrated, June 8, 2021

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Over the last twenty years spiritual director, teacher, and pilgrim Tracy Balzer has made more than a dozen transatlantic visits to Scotland's Isle of Iona, welcoming the hallowed spaces of the island to sculpt, bend, and sustain her spiritually. "It might be said that Iona has been my spiritual director," says Balzer, for with each visit she is freshly confronted by key questions of faith: Where is God? Who am I? What can I offer the world?

Set against the backdrop of Iona's deep Christian history and exquisite natural beauty, A Journey of Sea and Stone explores these questions, prompting each of us to reach for meaning in our daily lives and to consider the myriad ways God might be inviting us into something new. Tapping our innate desire to seek and find, to encounter God in creation and in the history of faithful people, Balzer guides us in our own journeys to cultivate and find sustenance and connection in sacred spaces.

Deep passages of reflection are complemented by rich illustrations reflecting the island's stunning terrain and Celtic heritage, providing spiritual seekers and armchair travelers a fresh entrée into the world of the sacred, wherever they may be.

• Print length 244 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Broadleaf Books
• Publication date June 8, 2021
• Dimensions 5 x 0.75 x 7 inches
• ISBN-10 1506464599
• ISBN-13 978-1506464596
• See all details

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Tracy Balzer’s A Journey of Sea and Stone includes chapters such as:

• A Sacred Island
• Staffa: Wonder
• Bright Moments: The Breath of God
• Tumbling: Polishing the Soul
• Columba’s Tears: Godly Grief
• Coorie In: Welcome
• Bell: Letting Go
• Harp: Beauty on Purpose

An Inside Look at A Journey of Sea and Stone: How Holy Places Guide and Renew Us

Excerpt from the introduction.

“We don’t get to determine how God will speak. Instead, we are invited to engage in the active spiritual practice of paying attention, of taking notice of what God has to say in God’s way. This posture of humility makes us more open to the transforming presence of God, wherever we might find ourselves. It is wisdom to stand, watch, wait, and listen.”

Editorial Reviews

"Which books keep you sane when the world locks you down? For me it's those with marrow-deep ties to the geography they describe--Wendell Berry's Port William stories, Timothy Egan's pilgrimage to Rome, Henry Beston's year on the beach at Cape Cod. New to this heartening shelf is Tracy Balzer's A Journey of Sea and Stone , the tale of her longstanding love for the cloistered island of Iona, off the Scottish coast. We all have places we seem to have known forever. In lucid, rhythmic prose, Balzer develops a spiritual travelogue of solace and gratitude, of openness to wonder and reason, and of a longing for what Beston called 'the dear earth itself underfoot.' This is a welcome book." ----Leif Enger, author of Peace Like a River

"The ancient tradition of spiritual pilgrimage reminds us that ordinary places can be holy places. Tracy Balzer takes us to the holy Isle of Iona to find fresh inspiration and meaning in our daily lives. If you want a spiritual pilgrimage that will renew your faith, you don't have to travel far. All you have to do is read this book!" ----Dr. Winfield Bevins, director of church planting at Asbury Seminary and author of Ever Ancient, Ever New

"A visionary, Tracy Balzer draws us in to a vivid sense of what holiness looks like, feels like. She demonstrates how anyone who experiences this transformative power can never again be the same--it is that radical." ----Luci Shaw, Writer in Residence, Regent College and author of The Generosity and Eye of the Beholder

"This book is about listening and looking and learning; it is about being deeply there to hear the heartbeat of a place, and the teaching that comes from all these things is gracious and generous. This work is like a polished serpentine stone from St. Columba's Bay on Iona: hold it to the light and you find more every time you look." ----Kenneth Steven, author and poet

"The real gift of Balzer's book is learning that our ordinary lives and receptive hearts can become sacred 'islands' in their own right as we create sanctuaries for ourselves and one another." ----Lisa Deam, author of 3000 Miles to Jesus: Pilgrimage as a Way of Life for Spiritual Seekers

"Tracy Balzer has given us all a wonderful gift. She invites us into sacred spaces and reminds us that we, on our own soulful journeys, are on holy ground." ----Brent Bill, author of Holy Silence: The Gift of Quaker Spirituality

About the Author

Tracy Balzer is a speaker, spiritual director, retreat leader, and an oblate at Subiaco Abbey. She is the author of Thin Places , A Listening Life , and Permission to Ponder , The founder and leader of Sea & Stone Journeys, she organizes spiritual pilgrimages to the British Isles. Tracy also hosts the podcast A Listening Life , where she guides listeners through the prayerful practice of lectio divina . Tracy lives in Siloam Springs, Arkansas where she serves as director of Christian formation at John Brown University.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Broadleaf Books; Illustrated edition (June 8, 2021)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 244 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1506464599
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1506464596
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.75 x 7 inches
• #1,111 in New Age Mysticism (Books)
• #12,425 in Christian Spiritual Growth (Books)

About the author

Tracy balzer.

Tracy Balzer writes and speaks with the hope of nudging others closer to intimacy with God. She is contemplative by nature, a certified spiritual director who is eager to listen to God and to others. Her discovery of the rich tradition of the early Celtic Christians feeds that enthusiasm for stillness and the appreciation of the beauty of creation, and she is nearly always in the middle of plans to lead a group of pilgrims to the British Isles. When she’s not writing or traveling, she serves as a campus minister at a Christian university in the United States.

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Exploring the Seas: What Sea Did Odysseus Sail?

Alex Morgan

In Greek mythology, Odysseus is celebrated as a renowned hero whose journey has captivated audiences for centuries. As the protagonist of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey , Odysseus embarks on a long and treacherous journey to return home after the Trojan War. Along his arduous path, he encounters various mythical creatures and engages in epic battles. One question that often arises is the sea Odysseus sailed. Let’s delve into the world of Greek mythology and explore the possible seas that played a role in Odysseus’ legendary voyage.

Before we begin, it’s important to understand the mythical background of Odysseus himself. Odysseus, also known as Ulysses, was the King of Ithaca and a prominent warrior in the Trojan War. Renowned for his cunning intelligence and strategical prowess, Odysseus played a significant role in the Greeks’ victory over Troy. His journey home proved to be equally perilous and captivating.

The purpose of Odysseus’ journey was to return to his homeland, Ithaca, and reunite with his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus. The gods, particularly Poseidon, were not in favor of his safe return due to his past actions. Thus, Odysseus faced numerous obstacles and challenges throughout his voyage, extending his journey to a decade.

Regarding the sea Odysseus sailed, several possibilities have been suggested based on the geographical and historical context of the time. The three primary seas associated with Odysseus’ journey are the Mediterranean Sea, the Ionian Sea, and the Aegean Sea. Each sea presents its own set of possibilities and interpretations in relation to the journey depicted in The Odyssey .

Ancient texts and legends offer invaluable insights into the sea Odysseus sailed. References from Homer’s epic poem, as well as other ancient Greek writings, shed light on the possible routes and geographical locations. archaeological findings and interpretations provide further clues to unravel this intriguing mystery.

By examining the various seas, gathering evidence from ancient texts and legends, and analyzing archaeological discoveries, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the sea Odysseus traversed during his epic odyssey. Join us on this captivating exploration as we delve into the mythical world of Odysseus and the enigmatic sea that played a pivotal role in his heroic journey.

Key takeaways:

Key takeaway:

• Odysseus sailed through various seas: Odysseus’ journey took him through the Mediterranean Sea, the Ionian Sea, and the Aegean Sea. Each sea played a significant role in his adventures.
• The geographical and historical context were important: Understanding the geography and historical context of the seas Odysseus sailed helped provide insights into his journey and the challenges he faced.
• Ancient texts and archaeological findings provide evidence: Ancient texts and legends, along with archaeological findings and interpretations, contribute to our knowledge of the seas Odysseus sailed and the possible routes he took.

Mythical Background of Odysseus

Odysseus , the Greek hero of the Trojan War, has a fascinating mythical background. He is renowned for his intellect and leadership skills, which played a crucial role in his various adventures. Perhaps the most famous among them is his arduous journey home from Troy, which was fraught with numerous obstacles. One of the well-known tales from this journey is his encounter with Polyphemus , the Cyclops. Odysseus cleverly outwitted the giant and managed to escape unharmed.

Another significant event in Odysseus’ saga is his encounter with Circe . This sorceress transformed his men into pigs, but with the aid of Hermes , Odysseus resisted her enchantments and freed his crew.

Throughout his absence from home, Odysseus faced countless trials and temptations, including the bewitching melody of the Sirens and the treacherous whirlpool of Charybdis .

The story of Odysseus serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity and the relentless power of perseverance. His cunning and resourcefulness allowed him to conquer the myriad challenges he faced and ultimately return to his homeland. It exemplifies the enduring appeal of storytelling and the heroic figures who triumph over adversity.

To gain a deeper understanding of Odysseus, it is paramount to delve into Homer’s epic poem, “ The Odyssey .” This literary masterpiece offers valuable insights into Odysseus’ character and his extraordinary journey. Studying the cultural and historical context of ancient Greece can provide further context and enhance one’s appreciation for Odysseus’ mythological legacy.

By immersing oneself in the mythical background of Odysseus, one can cultivate a greater appreciation for his enduring legacy and the themes of heroism, perseverance, and the longing for homecoming.

Who was Odysseus?

Odysseus , the Greek hero and king of Ithaca , was known for his intellect and bravery in the Trojan War . Who was Odysseus? He is celebrated for conceiving the idea of the Trojan Horse , which led to the downfall of Troy . Odysseus faced challenges and obstacles as he tried to return home. He encountered mythical creatures like the Cyclops , the Sirens , and the witch-goddess Circe . Despite these trials, Odysseus showed resilience and determination .

Odysseus’s journey was not only physical but also spiritual and emotional. He sought to reunite with his wife, Penelope , and son, Telemachus . Throughout his adventures, Odysseus demonstrated loyalty to his family and a strong commitment to returning home.

In addition to his cunning and bravery , Odysseus was admired for his leadership skills. He was respected by his men and other rulers. His actions and wisdom made him an inspiration in Greek mythology.

What was the purpose of Odysseus’ journey?

The purpose of Odysseus’ journey was to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. After ten years at war, Odysseus faced challenges on his way back, extending his journey to a total of ten years. His main goal was to reunite with his wife, Penelope , and son, Telemachus , and reclaim his throne from the suitors trying to take over his kingdom. Along the way, Odysseus encountered mythical creatures, faced gods’ wrath, and navigated treacherous seas.

Odysseus’ journey tested his character and determination. It allowed him to display bravery, intelligence, and resourcefulness in overcoming trials. Through encounters with monsters like Cyclops and sirens, as well as interactions with gods and goddesses, Odysseus learned valuable lessons and grew as a leader. His journey also showcased themes of loyalty and perseverance, as Odysseus remained steadfast in his pursuit to return home despite setbacks.

Fact: Odysseus’ journey, depicted in “The Odyssey” by Homer, has influenced countless works of literature and continues to resonate with readers and audiences today.

The Sea Odysseus Sailed

The Sea Odysseus Sailed , the Mediterranean Sea , holds great historical significance as well as being a vital trade route. For thousands of years, it has been a center of civilization, boasting a rich cultural heritage. This majestic sea is surrounded by countries such as Greece , Italy , Spain , Egypt , and Turkey , each offering diverse landscapes that include stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming islands. Its waters, known for their crystal-clear clarity, serve as a habitat for a wide variety of marine life. In his epic journey, the legendary Odysseus encountered numerous challenges and mythical creatures in the Mediterranean Sea , depicting his immense bravery and unwavering resilience. Today, the Mediterranean Sea continues to captivate as an essential and iconic destination, attracting tourists from all corners of the globe who come to explore its fascinating history, delectable cuisine, and awe-inspiring vistas.

What sea did Odysseus travel through?

Odysseus embarked on his homeward journey in “ The Odyssey ,” navigating through the Mediterranean Sea , also referred to as the Great Sea . This sea, situated between Europe , Africa , and Asia , is flanked by various countries, such as Greece , Italy , Turkey , and Egypt . Throughout his odyssey , Odysseus encountered mythical creatures and was held captive on the island of Ogygia . He braved the perilous waters of the Mediterranean Sea , facing storms, shipwrecks, and menacing sea monsters. This vast sea tested Odysseus’ expertise, resilience, and leadership. The epic tale of Odysseus provides profound insights into the historical and geographical context of the Mediterranean Sea . The sea’s significance in ancient Greek mythology and history is further illuminated by archaeological discoveries. Odysseus’ journey offers a glimpse into the challenges confronted by ancient seafarers in the Mediterranean region .

Geographical and Historical Context

The geographical and historical context of Odysseus’ journey is of utmost importance for comprehending the obstacles he encountered. Odysseus traversed various seas during the Late Bronze Age, a period marked by remarkable cultural and economic progress in the Mediterranean region. The Mediterranean Sea acted as the primary conduit for trade and communication, linking Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Ionian Sea, positioned between western Greece and Italy , presented adverse weather conditions and encounters with pirates. The Aegean Sea, renowned for its numerous islands, played a pivotal role in Odysseus’ expedition, serving as a testament to his bravery and ingenuity due to the presence of mythical creatures .

Grasping the geographical and historical context enables us to truly appreciate the magnitude of Odysseus’ trials and the significance of his voyage in the ancient world. Archaeological discoveries and ancient texts offer invaluable insights into the challenges faced by ancient sailors, the importance of maritime routes, and the cultural interchange that transpired during this era. Researchers persist in exploring and interpreting these sources to enhance our comprehension of Odysseus’ epic odyssey .

Exploring the Possible Seas

Let’s set sail on a captivating journey as we explore the possible seas that the legendary Odysseus sailed. From the mesmerizing Mediterranean to the captivating Ionian and Aegean Seas , each sub-section will unravel the mysteries and wonders that these enchanting bodies of water hold. So grab your imaginary sailor’s hat and come along as we dive into the depths of these ancient sea realms.

The Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea played a significant role in Odysseus’ journey. It was a challenging but crucial part of his odyssey . Located between Europe, Africa, and Asia, the Mediterranean Sea was a primary route for ancient seafaring civilizations. Its vast expanse and diverse coastlines offered opportunities and obstacles for maritime travel.

In Odysseus’ journey, the Mediterranean Sea presented dangers such as storms, mythical creatures, and hostile lands. These obstacles tested Odysseus’ resilience and resourcefulness. It also allowed him to encounter different cultures and civilizations, providing opportunities for alliances and adventures.

Ancient texts and legends, like Homer’s Odyssey , mention the Mediterranean Sea as the setting for Odysseus’ perilous voyage. Archaeological findings also support the existence of ancient Mediterranean civilizations that navigated these waters.

Today, the Mediterranean Sea remains an important waterway, connecting various countries and serving as a popular tourist destination. Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures make it a remarkable region to explore. Whether you are interested in retracing Odysseus’ footsteps or simply enjoying the beauty of the Mediterranean , this sea offers a unique and captivating experience.

So, if you seek a voyage filled with historical significance, breathtaking views, and diverse cultures, consider journeying across the majestic Mediterranean Sea .

The Ionian Sea

The Ionian Sea is important in Odysseus’s journey . It played a crucial role in his travels and adventures. It is located between Italy and Greece , to the west of mainland Greece and the Peloponnese peninsula.

Odysseus faced challenges and encountered mythical creatures like the sirens and the sea monster Scylla as he sailed through the Ionian Sea . The sea provided obstacles and opportunities for Odysseus to demonstrate his wit and strength.

During Odysseus’s time, the Ionian Sea had a different geographical and historical context. It was home to various ancient Greek city-states, including Ithaca , Odysseus’s homeland. These city-states had distinct cultures, economies, and political structures that Odysseus was able to encounter and interact with.

Ancient texts and legends mentioning the Ionian Sea describe Odysseus’s epic journey. Archaeological findings also support the evidence of seafaring activities in this area during that time.

The Aegean Sea

The Aegean Sea played a significant role in Odysseus’ journey. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, this sea has historical and mythological importance. Odysseus sailed through the Aegean Sea to return to Ithaca , facing challenges from mythical creatures and treacherous weather.

Surrounded by numerous islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini , the Aegean Sea exacerbated the difficulties for Odysseus. He had to navigate dangerous straits and narrow passageways between the islands.

The Aegean Sea also has cultural and historical significance. It was a center of civilization during the Bronze Age, with cities like Troy and Mycenae located along its shores. These cities and their legends are mentioned in ancient texts and have archaeological importance.

Evidence and References

To determine the sea Odysseus sailed, we can rely on evidence and references . Ancient texts, particularly The Odyssey by Homer , provide crucial information. Archaeological discoveries support the narrative, with remains of ancient ships and artifacts found in the Mediterranean region.

Geographical clues in The Odyssey , like references to Cyclops’ island and the location of Odysseus’ homeland, Ithaca, enhance our understanding. Historical records from ancient explorers and traders also offer insights into the seas traversed during that time.

Considering these pieces of evidence and references , it is widely accepted that Odysseus sailed the Mediterranean Sea on his epic journey.

When interpreting historical events, analyzing multiple sources and evaluating their credibility is essential. By critically examining the available evidence and references , we can gain a clearer understanding of the sea Odysseus sailed.

Ongoing research and future discoveries may further contribute to our knowledge of this ancient period.

What do ancient texts and legends say?

Ancient texts and legends offer insights into the journey of Odysseus following the conclusion of the Trojan War. These sources provide details on the difficulties he encountered, the mythical creatures he confronted, and the gods who influenced his expedition. According to these accounts, Odysseus embarked on his voyage with the aim of returning to his homeland in Ithaca , where his wife Penelope and son Telemachus eagerly awaited his arrival.

Throughout his odyssey , Odysseus faced numerous obstacles and embarked on countless adventures. The ancient texts and legends recount his encounters with the Cyclops Polyphemus , the sorceress Circe , and the lethal Sirens . They also mention his interactions with the sea nymph Calypso , who held him captive on her island for several years.

These ancient texts and legends portray Odysseus as a cunning and resourceful hero who employed his intelligence and cleverness to conquer challenges. They highlight his valor in confronting legendary creatures and his unwavering determination to return home despite setbacks.

These accounts make references to the seas that Odysseus traversed, encompassing the Mediterranean Sea, the Ionian Sea, and the Aegean Sea. Considering the historical and geographical context, it is believed that Odysseus undertook his expedition through these waters.

Therefore, reflecting upon the question, “ What do ancient texts and legends say? “, these narrative sources serve as invaluable reservoirs of information regarding Odysseus’ extraordinary journey.

Archaeological findings and interpretations

Archaeological findings and interpretations provide insights into the sea Odysseus sailed.

Excavations and research have contributed to our understanding of the context of Odysseus’ travels.

Numerous discoveries have helped identify the sea Odysseus sailed.

These findings include shipwrecks, artifacts, and navigational tools that match descriptions in ancient texts.

Experts have determined that the sea Odysseus navigated was most likely the Mediterranean Sea .

Archaeological findings have also revealed the routes and dangers Odysseus encountered.

For example, the discovery of ancient shipwrecks in the Mediterranean , along with their cargo and navigation equipment, supports the idea that the sea was treacherous and challenging to sail.

These findings confirm the hardships Odysseus faced.

Interpretations of ancient texts and legends have further supported the identification of the Mediterranean Sea as the sea Odysseus sailed.

References to specific locations, landmarks, and mythological creatures found in these texts align with known features in the Mediterranean region.

Some Facts About What Sea Did Odysseus Sail:

• ✅ The sea that Odysseus sailed was the Mediterranean Sea. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ Odysseus encountered many challenges and adventures while sailing through the Mediterranean Sea. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ The exact route and locations of Odysseus’ journey in the Mediterranean Sea are subject to debate among scholars. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ The story of Odysseus’ journey in the Mediterranean Sea is a timeless tale of adventure and perseverance. (Source: Our Team)
• ✅ The geography and places mentioned in Odysseus’ journey in the Mediterranean Sea are often described in a fantastical and mythical way. (Source: Our Team)

Frequently Asked Questions

What sea did odysseus sail.

Odysseus sailed the Mediterranean Sea during his journey back to his homeland, Ithaca.

Who was skeptical about the existence of the places visited by Odysseus?

Some ancient writers, including geographer Eratosthenes, were skeptical about the existence of the places visited by Odysseus.

Where is Calypso’s island located?

Calypso’s island, where Odysseus was held captive for seven years, is believed to be in the Maltese archipelago.

Where is Nestor’s Pylos located?

Nestor’s Pylos, which Odysseus visited in his journey, is generally located in Messenia, based on Mycenaean ruins found at the archaeological site of Ano Englianos.

Which mythical creatures did Odysseus encounter on the island of the Cyclopes?

Odysseus encountered the Cyclopes, one-eyed giants, on the island of the Cyclopes.

Which ancient geographer suggested that the Columns of Hercules were between the African coast and Sicily?

Sardinian writer Sergio Frau suggested that the Columns of Hercules were between the African coast and Sicily.

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Learn about Alphina and her journey through the sea turtle conservation.

Where did you grow up? 

I grew up on a small island called Manu’atele, one of the islands making up the American Samoa archipelago. We are very isolated from our motherland, Tutuila, the largest island in the archipelago. With the forest being my backyard and the ocean being my front yard, I’ve spent 100 percent of my time exploring nature, which is where I feel most at home. Manu’atele is a very small island with not that many people, so everyone knows each other and we are all family. Our main food sources, myths, folklores, and our culture aspects and practices are derived from the land, air, and ocean.

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I graduated from Manu’a High School in 2017 with an interest in marine science. I attended the American Samoa Community College where I graduated with an Associates of Science in marine science in 2019. Then I attended University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in marine science in 2021.

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The journey at Sea

The journey at sea

In  June 2018 we booked  the Klein Curacao tour. We boarded at Zansibar and started the journey on sea to the little island near the coast of Curacao. On the journey at sea we saw a lot of flying fish. When we arrived we had to jump in the beautiful turquoise waters where people are sailing, diving and exploring the little island.

Staff is super friendly, very hospitable, ask for drinks almost too many times, helpful, funny, relaxed and always in for a joke or some more serious conversation.

Prices are well worth your money as the drinks, and a very good lunch, are included and take you away for a whole day.

I would recommend taking 1 or more trips during your stay on Curacao and experience the same as we did.

Don’t forget to bring a GoPro!

Watch the video of Richard Baker  or read his story so he can explain to you why you should try it out.

BLUEFINN CHARTERS CURACAO

Welcome to Bluefinn Charters Curacao the charter company with the most diverse boat tours in Curacao. From the most beautiful beaches on the west side of Curacao to our secluded paradise-like island called “ Klein Curacao “. We offer all kinds of trips at affordable rates. We also cater for private groups. Go anywhere whenever you like with friends or family. Book your trip on the 75ft “Black & White” today!

Bluefinn Charters is also specialized in deep sea fishing. Book a fully arranged day on our well equipped 38ft Sportfisherman yacht . Catch that fish you are dreaming of! Book half or full day fishing trip with us today

KLEIN CURACAO

Duration: Approx 9 hours

Every: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday

Yacht: 75ft Sailing Catamaran

“Klein Curacao” which stands for little/small Curacao is just a boat trip away. Book a trip with friends or family to this small paradise. This

full day trip aboard

Departure: 8:30

Duration: 9 hours

Location: Zanzibar, Janthiel Beach

Price: $109 pp

* Tax included

WEST COAST SAILING

Duration: Approx 8 hours

Every: Sunday

Experience the most beautiful beaches on Curacao aboard the 75ft Catamaran “Black & White”.

BlueFinn Charters comfortably takes you to Curacao’s best beaches where you can swim, snorkel, scuba dive or just relax with friends

and family.

Included in price; Local taxes, snorkel gear, BBQ and beverages. Beer, Wine, Wiskey and Rum are available at the bar. After a relaxing day at the most beautiful beach of Curacao you’re invited for .

FRIDAY SNORKELING TRIP

Duration: Approx 5 hours

Every: Friday

Want to relax, snorkel and possibly meet our local dolphins? Then our Friday Snorkel Trip is just perfect for you!

At our first snorkel spot, you will be able to snorkel to a shipwreck and when you’re lucky you can meet our local dolphins here! A unique experience brought to you in collaboration with the Curacao Dolphin Academy ! Our next snorkel spot will be at the famous snorkeling site called Tugboat at Caracasba

Departure: 10.00 at Mood Beach (Mambo Boulevard)

Duration: 5 hours

Price Children 4-12: $75 pp

Price Adults: $95 pp

* please note that a possible encounter with the dolphins is an extra, a bonus. It’s not an official part of the tour, due to the nature of the animals.

SUNSET SAILING TRIP

Duration: 2.5 hours

Our most relaxing trip in our list. Unwind with a drink and some snacks while the sun sets.

Step aboard the catamaran “Black & White” at Jan Thiel Beach and cruise to Spanish Water and Fuik bay. We leave at 17.30 and return at 20.00. Book our popular sunset trip today, beverages and small bites are included!

Departure: 17.30 at Mood Beach (Mambo Boulevard)

Route: Spanish Waters, Fuik Bay & St Anna Bay

Price: $65 pp

SCUBA DIVING

Locations: Banda Abou, Klein Curacao

Day: Every trip

Dive at the best spots in Curacao. Do a 2 tank dive when taking our West Coast Sailing trip or dive at Klein Curacao. We drop you off on the best spots. Beautiful coral and loads of fish is what to expect.

Please let us know in advance if you would like to do a dive during our trips. Our dive center Scuba Do will take care of your gear.

*Your Safety is very important to us. Wwhen you would like to dive with us, a visit to dive center Scuba Do is mandatory. Medical forms and safety procedures are taken care of at the dive center.

Departure: Jan Thiel Beach

Dive Locations: Klein Curacao, Curacao’s west side beaches

Price: $195 pp *Own equipment

Price: $220 pp *Rental equipment

PRIVATE CHARTERS

Locations: Any Beach & Klein Curacao

Yacht: 38ft Sportfisherman or 75ft Sailing Catamaran

Blue finn Charters offers private trips. You decide where we go and we will take great care of you. Everything can be arranged. From small events to beach cruising with family and friends

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Sail on the Columbia and Snake Rivers, taking in panoramic views of the sweeping landscapes and learning the rich history of the area.

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3 Columbia River Gorge and Hood River Cruise up the Gorge today and see the sights; Bonneville Dam, Multnomah Falls, and Beacon Rock. Then stop at the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum to see a collection of still functioning antique cars and planes.

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‘I Will Never, Ever Go on a Cruise’

Readers respond to our May 2024 issue and more.

A Meatball at Sea

For the May 2024 issue, Gary Shteyngart spent seven nights aboard the biggest cruise ship that has ever sailed.

Explore the July/August 2024 Issue

Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.

I’ve never written a letter to the editor before, but rare are the times I’ve read an article more hilarious, brilliant, and incisive than Gary Shteyngart’s on his escapades at sea. I was moved, entertained, and wowed by his keen observations. But mostly I’m grateful to him for reinforcing a promise I made to myself: I will never, ever go on a cruise.

Jennifer Ripley Menlo Park, Calif.

I laughed out loud several times while reading Gary Shteyngart’s account of his experience on the inaugural voyage of the Icon of the Seas. As someone passionate about cruising, I recognized the truth in much of what Shteyngart wrote. I’m also a travel agent, and the thought of sailing on the Icon fills me with dread. So many people! I tell my clients that cruising is for everyone, but not all cruise lines are for everyone.

There are a few aspects of cruising that I think the author missed, though. My son is a full-time wheelchair user and an avid cruiser. It’s hard to imagine how he would see the world if not on a cruise ship. On today’s modern, accessible vessels, the indignities that he and other people with disabilities might suffer every day at home are largely absent.

We love cruising because of the staff. The pride and care that crew members take in providing excellent service is evident. We love to ask about their family at home, and we tip them generously. We hope that Shteyngart did the same.

Kathleen Moylan Worcester, Mass.

Once upon a time, I was a travel writer. As someone who still revels in the wonder of travel 15 years after leaving the field, I found Gary Shteyngart’s article about the Icon of the Seas disappointing. Travel writing as an artistic form has been in jeopardy for years, and I fear that articles like Shteyngart’s demonstrate why.

Travel writing doesn’t have to follow well-worn formats or cast its subjects in a favorable light. But it should create a sense of place. No travel writer worth their salt would ever wallow in misery and disdain, as Shteyngart does here. A travel writer shouldn’t judge those around them or put themselves at the center of the story; the job of a travel writer is to look at an experience and see its value. When I worked as a travel writer, if I ever found myself in an experience I disliked, I tried to understand why others around me enjoyed it and then worked to reconcile those two perspectives.

We travel writers are a specific brood. We have internalized that our work is not about us. We know we are guests in the places we visit. There is a degree of respect that a travel writer must have if they hope to see a place clearly. Those have to be table stakes.

Kim Palacios San Ramon, Calif.

It is disconcerting that, only four months after The Atlantic devoted an entire issue to the dangers of a second Donald Trump presidency, the magazine published a story that seems designed to confirm the central argument of Trump’s political movement: that blue-state elites despise ordinary Americans and see no value in their way of life. Like Trump’s speeches, Gary Shteyngart’s humor is littered with name-calling and childish insults; the “reprobates” and “bent psychos” who spend their money on cruises are mocked for their weight, their clothes, their hobbies, their tattoos. Despite the fact that some of these “psychos” are, as Shteyngart notes, veterans who have served their country, he concludes that his fellow cruisers have no “interior life” and are thus unworthy of attention from a member of the “creative class” like himself. If Trump is reelected in November, part of the blame will lie with those, like Shteyngart, who seem to have retreated so far into their progressive bubbles that they have become the mirror image of the MAGA faithful.

Andrew Miller New Orleans, La.

Gary Shteyngart’s colorful essay from the world’s largest cruise ship makes snobbery an art form. What did he expect? Cruise-ship builders take chunks of Las Vegas, Branson, and Disney and put them on a platform that moves through the water. Never have I entertained the idea of taking a trip on one, but thousands of Americans do it regularly, most of them solidly middle-class in wealth and taste. Most Americans would prefer to watch the Mets play the Marlins than the Met play Mozart.

During my cruising years—on the Navy’s big gray ships, in the 1960s—officers and crews were a mix of Americans from everywhere and every social strata. One chief petty officer was an outspoken socialist; one of my commanding officers was a paranoid member of the John Birch Society. The crews of the ships I served on joined the middle class upon discharge, and some of them probably cruise and talk football and eat bad food and vote for Donald Trump. What a shame that Shteyngart couldn’t connect with them. He might have learned something. I did.

Earl Higgins River Ridge, La.

Gary Shteyngart replies:

What fascinated me most about my fellow cruisers—many of whom were from blue states and were not MAGA diehards—was their lack of curiosity. They were more than happy to eat food that reminded me of a Yalta cafeteria in my Soviet youth. They laughed themselves silly when a comedian made fun of “shithole countries” (although the African woman and her husband next to me walked out). To Andrew Miller’s point, I think it is precisely this kind of passivity and incuriosity that lets a nation forgo its long tradition of democracy and, through either malice or inaction, allow a tyrant to take charge. To Earl Higgins’s comment, I tried to connect desperately, almost pathologically, with my fellow cruisers. Sadly, there was not one outspoken socialist or paranoid member of the John Birch Society to be found. Indeed, it was the blinkered blandness of my fellow cruisers that drove me to despair. In the end, I began to respect the alcoholics and degenerate gamblers I met. They, at least, had a story to tell.

A Study in Senate Cowardice

Republicans like Rob Portman could have ended Donald Trump’s political career, Jeffrey Goldberg wrote in The Atlantic ’s May 2024 issue. They chose not to.

Good journalism should make its audience angry. And Jeffrey Goldberg’s detailing of the rank hypocrisy of the Republican senators who talked tough but folded like cheap suits when it came time to vote to convict Donald Trump for his role in the January 6 insurrection should incite anger in every reader who cares about this country.

Particularly fitting is Goldberg’s word choice about their behavior— pathetic , greasy . I hope history remembers and repeats the names of those senators who could have stopped a threat to democracy and decency but instead caved to Trump.

Steve Schild Winona, Minn.

Jeffrey Goldberg’s article holding certain Republican senators to account makes a valid point. However, it is easy to picture the current GOP leadership retaliating with baseless impeachment proceedings against their opposition, setting a destructive precedent that could undermine and diminish the United States. Goldberg calls that argument “pathetic,” but probably some of those senators who voted nay believed Trumpism would eventually pass; they followed the rule of law and looked ahead hopefully to a future generation of quality leaders for whom the nation would matter more than any individual.

Michael E. Zuller Great Neck, N.Y.

Behind the Cover

In this issue’s cover story, “ The Valley ,” George Packer reports from Phoenix and the surrounding Salt River Valley. Packer argues that the Valley’s problems—climate change, conspiracism, hyper-partisanship—are America’s, and that its fate may presage the nation’s. The cover evokes a landscape that is getting hotter and drier, and a future that is blurry. This is a place where American optimism and ingenuity are being put to the test.

— Peter Mendelsund, Creative Director

Corrections

“Democracy Is Losing the Propaganda War” (June) misstated the subtitle of Anne Applebaum’s latest book. The full title is Autocracy, Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World . “The Great Serengeti Land Grab” (May) misstated the distance between Sharjah Safari park and the Pololeti Game Reserve. The Sharjah Safari park is 2,000 miles northeast of the Pololeti Game Reserve, not 5,000 miles north. “Clash of the Patriarchs” (May) mischaracterized Roman Emperor Constantine’s policy toward Christianity. Although Constantine favored Christianity over other tolerated religions in the empire, he did not impose it on his subjects.

This article appears in the July/August 2024 print edition with the headline “The Commons.”