On March 15 we found ourselves standing on Princes Wharf in Auckland, about to start a ten day adventure at sea.

We were lucky enough to attend Voyage 755 on the Spirit of New Zealand. For the next ten days we would have no contact to the outside world, and be sailing around the Hauraki Gulf with 37 completely random people from all over New Zealand.

Everyone was pushed out of their comfort zones, including climbing to the top of the mast, swimming at 6:30 every morning in the sea and sleeping on triple bunks less than one metre apart. Although it was mainly sea based, we also went on land and did a six hour tramp up the picturesque Mt Fitzroy on Great Barrier Island and had a big bonfire to celebrate the end of the voyage.

One of the best parts for us was the climbing of the mast, which was 31.5m in the air, with the floor of the boat already being two stories high. Even without the fear of heights it was still challenging hanging over the edge of the boat that high up, but it was worth it for the experience. We also attempted to race the Volvo Ocean boats while they were leaving the Auckland Harbour.

Another fun time for everyone on the boat was the yard swing. A rope swing was put up off one of the masts and we were able to swing into the water from there and race around the boat which was 37.5 metres long.

Overall, the experience was new but worth it because the friendships made were lifelong and the experiences will always be with us. If you ever get the chance, sign up for the Spirit Of Adventure!