Wednesday 17th November, 1971
Day 5 at sea. I work on the ship. It is cold with a blue sky and good weather. They have finished loading ore.
We anchor in the stream offshore, waiting for the turbine being repaired ashore.
Thursday 18th November, 1971
Day 6 at sea. The anchor brake fails and all the chain goes out, so a tug is called for assistance. Ice is floating all around. There’s no wind, and everything is very still and quiet.
We get the turbine back, get the anchor fixed, and we sail in the evening. This time, east. Next stop: Newcastle.
Friday 19th November, 1971
Day 7 at sea. I do a bit of work in the morning washing decks, and then it’s free time.
Saturday 20th November, 1971
Day 8 at sea. I play chess with the bosun. We play two games, each of us winning once. I watch a movie—Johnny Banco—and then have a few beers with the crew.