I set off on HMS Beagle from Plymouth on the 27 December 1831. I have a lot of objectives for this voyage:
First, I would like to complete survey work around South America. Further, I would like to obtain an accurate series of longitudes around the world. I would like to make constant observations of the tides, their properties and the factors that influence them. I would like to make observations on ocean currents, monsoons and trade winds. Finally, I hope to keep detailed meteorological records, including air pressure and temperature, sea surface temperature, wind and weather.
I feel worried about sinking; I don’t know if I will be sea sick because I have never been on a boat and don’t know if the waves might throw me about. But I am still very excited to explore the world and discover new animals that will be known to mankind. I hope to see my family again sometime.
By Matthew M
