Captain’s Log - DISPATCH 004 – cNAMMs Expedition, R/V Robert Gray

The R/V Robert Gray continues its circumnavigation of North America, conducting microbe biodiversity surveys and refining logistics for an intended annual expedition.

Recent Journey & Challenges

  • After delays in Puerto Vallarta, the ship cleared Mexican customs in Puerto Marques Bay and faced a Caribbean-origin storm, requiring an overnight stop in Puerto Angel.

  • A temporary steering loss was swiftly resolved by the engineering crew.

  • In Guatemala, Collection Site No. 003 was completed amid an abundance of dolphins.

  • The voyage to Costa Rica faced rough seas, resulting in a lost Starlink dish, which was temporarily remounted.

  • Arrival at Bahia Potrero (Feb 18) was late, requiring an overnight stay before clearing customs.

Current Status & Next Steps

  • New crew members joined in Bahia Potrero, replenishing supplies and refining sampling strategies.

  • The ship now heads to Panama, where more crew will board for the Canal crossing and Collection No. 004.

  • The expedition balances scientific exploration with the romance of life at sea, embracing adventure, camaraderie, and deep discussions.

Life Aboard the RVRG

  • The crew thrives on teamwork, storytelling, and evening games like dominoes.

  • Chef Gigi’s Vietnamese-inspired cuisine has made dieting impossible.

  • Wildlife sightings include whales, dolphins, and frigate birds, with ongoing ocean cleaning efforts.

  • Fishing has been mostly unsuccessful, with one major catch lost to a shark ("taxman").

  • Swim breaks in 85°F waters are a welcome morale boost.

  • Ship aesthetics & upgrades continue, with military-style showers and tight water conservation efforts.

  • The historic nature of the 90-year-old vessel is deeply appreciated, with crew respecting its legacy while modernizing systems.

Reflections on Exploration

  • Nighttime on the RVRG is particularly inspiring, with breathtaking sunsets, star-lit skies, and green flashes.

  • The crew is committed to science and ocean sustainability, proudly carrying flags from The Explorers Club, The Adventurers Club of Los Angeles, and The Voyagers Club.

For updates, follow @gentadv and @thevoyagersclubllc on Instagram.

For more info check out The Gentlemens Adventure Club cNAMMs Dispatch here.

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Captain’s Log - DISPATCH 005 – cNAMMs Expedition, R/V Robert Gray

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Captain’s Log - DISPATCH 003 – cNAMMs Expedition, R/V Robert Gray