The crisp calls of seabirds, together with the melodious chimes from the Queen's Staircase Church, jointly awakened the Nassau morning.
After a night of restful sleep, gently rocked by the waves, the fatigue from the previous day's sailing was completely washed away.
Lin Yu'an opened his eyes and looked out through the small porthole, seeing the morning light over the dock, turning the calm harbor into a warm, pale golden hue.
When Lin Yu'an stepped out of the cabin, he was immediately surrounded by a fresh ocean scent and the rich aroma of coffee.
Captain Mike was already up, like a hardworking old farmer, barefoot, wearing only beach shorts, carefully hosing down the salt crystals accumulated on the boat's hull and rigging during the night sail.
"Good morning, Mike," Lin Yu'an handed over a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
"Morning." Mike took the coffee, gulping a big sip, then pointed towards the kitchen with his chin, a resigned yet indulgent smile spreading across his face.
