Underway

To those who have experienced the first time underway All preparations made, standing in white Waves and silent kisses from those who stay Take in all lines! Whistle’s moan, tug lines bite A slight movement, at last I’m underway! Signal flags flutter, channel buoys made Course set for the open deep blue, watch set Strike below for chow, movie and the Spades Watch wake at night’s mid, stars through Big Eyes met Never before have I gazed such wonder Unsteady gait acquires legs of the sea Phosphorous fan parts the night fore yonder The isle’s tiny lights shine like sparkling trees My first experience with mother ship A late night date and she picks up the tip