As of 0800 today the training ship Patriot State was located at 7 degrees, 50 minutes north latitude, and 084 degrees west longitude. Course 000, speed 8 knots. The air temperature is 88 degrees. The water temperature is 82 degrees. The winds are gentle and out of the east north east at 3 knots. The sea is calm. The skies are partly cloudy with occasional rain showers in the area.

We are preparing to cross the thousand fathom curve, which is a navigational marker that signals the approaching land mass. This area is considered one of the richest bio-diverse locales in the Pacific. It can also attract a lot of traffic. With that in mind ...we have posted our look outs and have briefed them to keep an eye out for small fishing boats that dot the area. These boats could pose a navigational threat, so a keen cadet eye is clearly needed for this important task.

We have been notified by Costa Rican port authorities that we might be forced to 'anchor out' for a portion of our visit in Caldera. This is somewhat of an inconvience, however, we are definitely prepared for its eventuality.

Our watch adjutants are preparing a special motor launch watch bill. This will require an additional 16 cadets to operate the launch boats needed to transport cadet and crew members ashore. We are fortunate to have well trained cadets on board capable of handling small boats in this capacity. In fact, while they will be handed an extra assignment ...they are eager to carry it out and put their training to use.

As I mentioned yesterday, liberty will be a welcome respite from the daily rigors of our training schedule. The duty watch bill has been prepared, so our cadets are able to schedule tours, visits with parents, friends, etc. We are just a day out of Caldera...and I will brief you on our arrival during the day tomorrow.