Month of September , 2006

There is no rest for the wicked. In the unseasonably warm late September weather here in the Netherlands, lots of people were enjoying a weekend sailing before berthing their boats for the winter. We on the other hand were out sailing, but we were working on board the Morgan. Having said that, work can be fun and this weekend was definitely fun.

After a month on dry dock at the Jachthaven Waterkant for repairs and maintenance, the Morgan was very happy to go back in the water. Moving a 17 ton yacht requires specialist equipment and a sturdy tractor. With great care she was manoeuvered from her scaffold onto a trailer, and then eased slowly into the water down a gently sloping ramp.

Many would agree that the under water environment is one of the most difficult in which to film. The light conditions change with every metre, visibility can be poor, the current is a major factor, the animals – assuming you can find them in such a huge space – move in every direction possible, and you are limited in shooting time to safe diving practices and the amount of air in your tank.

In its own words, the Rotterdam Zoo's Oceanium recognises water as the ‘source of life’. It's goal is to contribute to the conservation of the seas and coastal areas, and the biodiversity within them. With this as our common goal, we are very pleased to formally announce a partnership Morganonline-Rotterdam Zoo.

In the charming historical harbour town of Willemstad here in the Netherlands, Ernie presented Morganonline to the staff of a ships chandler.  Yachting Willemstad is equipping the Morgan with everything she needs to safely and comfortably carry us across the world’s seas. The staff members gathered round a television screen in the shop where a short film introducing Morganonline permanently runs.

Electricity is always an issue on a sailing boat. Unless you are berthed in a marina and connected to the marina’s electricity supply, you are dependent on your on-board generator for electricity. However, these generators are only able to supply 12 V which is sufficient for some lights but not enough to run any appliances or computers.