[QUOTE]It is hard to believe that the charter vessel is approaching its fourth week of operations in the search for the ill fated vessel and that this is the real first update of how the search is progressing. Things have worked against me getting over to the boat when it was back in port but I felt I had plenty of time to get over.
Yesterday morning I received a telephone call from a gentleman with a distinct American accent and for a short time it caught me off guard. I know a number of American people and did not initially link the voice until he spoke in a clearer voice asking for me by my full name, I knew then straight away that was Dirk Cussler. He was enquiring about my well being as he was concerned that there might have been a medical reason for my absence. I was invited over to the boat and as the sun was shining I put aside what I was working on and made my way over to the boat. Once on deck I was surrounded by faces now familiar to me as those who make the journey each year. After a warm greeting we retired to the saloon for cold drinks, or in my case a cup of strong tea, how I miss the opportunity of a cold alcoholic beverage.
I explained that I was anxious not to go over to the boat when it first arrived nor when Dirk arrived. I know I am welcome on the boat anytime but I am also only too aware how busy they can be even in port. Last year at this time when the boat was in port and the crew were sat on deck chairs on the deck I knew that the time was right for me to visit. Unfortunately only once this year has the occasion presented itself for the crew to even venture out on to the deck for a break, it has been so wet. Dirk was eager for me to get over to the boat as he was leaving to return home yesterday morning shortly before the boat left for its third run out and he wanted to see how things were going for me. In no time at all they relayed their experiences of the previous two search legs. They have as usual covered plenty of ‘ground’, which in itself is an odd expression for the boat’s track. They have located many seabed obstructions some uncharted whilst others are already present on the admiralty charts. As yet however, nothing really positive has been found and Dirk has admitted it is becoming frustrating.
We went up to the bridge to look over the charts and the area covered is clearly marked and it is simply staggering to see how far they have travelled. Like me he finds it difficult to comprehend why they have not found the wreck site or even anything positive given the area of seabed they have searched. Each year they have been here they have expanded the search grids without much luck and we both agree that this cannot really continue indefinitely. As much as I want them to locate their quarry I would of course be sad to see them finish their search as I look forward to renewing our friendships.
Dirk outlined that Clive would be over here in the UK around the 19th July and that if the opportunity arises he is considering a visit. Dirk has told me that Clive will most likely call as he knows Clive would like to see me catch up with me, not having made it over for a while. I will most certainly be looking for the boats arrival back here to see how it coincides with the 19th and with luck Clive will make it here. I asked if this meant the lawsuit was now finished and Dirk said that it was almost done with the exception of a few minor hitches, I did not ask how it had gone as I felt there was a boundary to how much one can ask!
Back in the saloon the team were settling down to lunch and I was encouraged to stay, Dirk tried to reason that this year the charter vessel has engaged an excellent professional cook and would be missing a gourmet lunch but I felt that I had stayed long enough for that visit. With the state of the tide I was helped ashore by Dirk and other team members and I felt quite proud when I was approached by member of the public enquired “what we were searching for” asking as though I was a team member. I was suitably equipped to answer the request and feel I gave a well founded response, I was going to explain that I wasn’t actually a team member but somehow didn’t get the chance… The charter vessel left Whitby yesterday morning with a warm sunny day ahead of them or at least that was how it was looking. Unfortunately later in the day the weather turned to rain that was quite heavy for a time.
Not having had more time with Dirk I did not get the opportunity of asking him the questions I had prepared from those submitted by forum members. I did however relay the suggestion and he told me that he was happy to answer them if I would be willing to e – mail them to him. I have now done so and will pass on the answers when I get them back. We spoke about the progress of the next title he is working on with Clive and he told me he was behind on the schedule laid down by Clive. I did of course offer my services but he wisely declined my offer?
Incidentally, the charter vessel also played a role in film and whilst the role may not be that interesting to Clive Cussler enthusiasts, it may be of interest to see what else the charter vessel is involved with?
I do hope this update was not too drawn out and promise to make the next update smaller unless of course there is ample good news.
Regards
Whitbycolin p:
Dive Whitby