Sleeping is a challenge while passage making. There are several reasons. Although the watch schedules are carefully contrived to offer as much time in longer blocks for snoozing as possible, the helm must be attended to 24 hours a day, and the person at the help periodically needs assistance and help staying awake. That means at least two people are almost always awake.
Everyone does their time, giving up several night hours in exchange for time off during the day. Sleep doesn't come as efficiently during daytime hours though, especially in an unfamiliar bed that is jerking back and forth irregularly. And the noise. No matter how much attention is paid to quieting things down, it is impossible to eliminate the relentless knocking, clattering and bumping of a boat full of objects and crew rattling about as Quijote pitches and hobby horses through the waves. The sound of the water rushing along the hull alone would be enough to keep anyone awake. And given the importance of staying hydrated to ward off sea sickness. All that sound of rushing water means never ending trips to the lou.
In spite of all that sleep deprivation, we are starting to get into a rhythm. Sleep will catch up with us as soon as we're overtaken by exhaustion and pass out in the middle of the day. I only hope when I collapse, I won't find the bunk occupied.
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