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Bermudian joins crew in South Pacific trip

A Bermudian resident has joined a boat crew hoping to sail across the South Pacific.

Allafia Butterfield, 23, of Pembroke, will set sail on the training ship Picton Castle in Suva, Fiji to learn about all aspects of sailing from hauling on the lines that set and take in sails to taking a turn steering at the big teak wheel.

More than 1,000 people have trained aboard Picton Castle since 1997, with the ship having sailed around the world five times.

Ms Butterfield will be part of the ship’s sixth world circumnavigation.

The current journey began in November, 2012 at the ship’s home base in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada.

The ship will sail through the South Pacific to Vanuatu, the Coral Sea, the Torres Strait, Timor Sea and the Indian Ocean.

“Not everyone knows what they’re doing when they first sign on,” said Trudi Inglis a representative of Picton Castle. Trainees need no previous sailing experience at all — they learn the required skills from the ship’s professional crew.

“Most of the lessons are learned in the day-to-day operations of the ship, plus regular workshops.

“Any crew member could tell you what an amazing experience it is to sail aboard Picton Castle.

“They live and work with an international crew that quickly becomes more like a family, visit gorgeous remote islands where they’re welcomed with open arms, and experience the beauty of the ocean well away from the sight of land, while challenging themselves and developing skills in seamanship.”

Those wanting to learn more about Picton Castle and opportunities to sail can contact the ship’s office at 1 902 634 9984 or visit the website at picton-castle.com.