Today we pulled a dead dolphin out of the sea. It's the first time I've seen one and it was horrible. It was very fresh - suggesting that it was definitely caught in nets around where we are.

At first glance the dolphin's body didn't seem to be too badly cut up but then I saw the ragged state of its beak and fins. I think everyone felt a bit strange after seeing it - even those people who have seen lots before. Later, watching some very lively dolphins from the portholes in the mess, took away some of the nasty feeling - but it also brought home how awful it is to see something that was so alive being so dead.

On to more pleasant things - galley life is still going great. I have definitely got the routine down now. 8am start with a break at 10, then back in to prepare lunch until 12. At 1, after a bit of cleaning greatly helped by the 'galley slaves' (crew members on galley cleaning duty), I have generally been given a couple of hours off - before returning at 3.30-4 to prepare the evening meal. We finish later than everyone else but it's nice to have the time in the day to sleep, or help on deck, or check emails...

As I write I keep thinking of things that have happened. I got sick the other night - not pleasant at all. It did get pretty rough and quite scary in the galley as things started falling around the place - lots of dangerous things like really sharp knives and boiling hot food. I now fully understand the phrase 'ship-shape' and why everything has to be put away in a secure place.

I did some dolphin watch training on Sunday and it was far more complex than I had imagined. I guess I need to understand that the WDCS crew members are scientists and scientific research is going to require more than the "ooh there's a dolphin" that characterises my spotting so far. I'm looking forward to getting started when the weather improves.

Jo, Assistant cook

Hi Jo

Great to read your blog - I am just sorry it had to be on such a sad matter. The only cheering fact is that it will help us get the message through to Ben Bradshaw more clearly. I have copies of all the photographs which I will be presenting to him at a candidates meeting in Exeter early next month.

If I remember rightly you told me that you had "limited shipping experience" but I suppose now you have had the rough times it will all get easier. Must be really weird feeling like sh*t yet having to think about cooking a meal for the others!!!!

Anyway take care, good luck to you all and keep up the good work.

Regards

Nick