The ship and the sailors seemed to be in a very hopeless situation. The ship was surrounded by huge icebergs. Everyone felt sad and unhappy. Then came the albatross. Its arrival was hailed by the mariners. It was an auspicious bird as it brought a favourable south wind with it. Then the ice cracked and split. The helmsman was able to steer the ship clear through. The mariners gave the albatross food and played with it.
