Phase2

Boat improvements for 2012

2012-01-17T22:38:00.001+10:00

Our trip last year was great and we are keen to go further afield so the list below are things we are planning to add before the next big trip.

1) Watermaker (Spectra Ventura 200TMPC has been ordered). 31 l/hr for a current draw of 10 amps. Automatic back flush every 5 days if not used.
2) Wind Generator (Eclectic Energy D400 has been ordered). Quietest and best power output at low wind speeds (4 amps at 10knots). To supplement solar panels on cloudy days and when sailing at night.
3) HF radio
4) Satellite phone
5) Comprehensive spare parts for pumps, autopilot etc.

That should burn up our budget for this year (and next).

2011 Lizard Island Trip Summary

2012-01-17T22:38:00.000+10:00

Best place to visit: Lizard Island
Best beach: Watson's Bay, Lizard
Best snorkelling: Ribbon Reef #5 just pips out Lizard Island
Clearest water: Ribbon Reef #5
Best brush with nature: Ribbon Reef #5, Dolphins north of Thomas Island
Safest anchorage: Still Cid Harbour (Good in all weather and a great walk to the peak)
Best marina: Keppel Bay Marina just ahead of Bluewater Marina in Cairns (Courtesy car at both is great)
Best sail: Spinnaker run from Dunk Is to Fitzroy Island
Worst sail: St Crispins Reef to Yorkey's Knob (25 knots on the nose into a big swell)
Scariest sail: None
Longest sail: 23 hours and 140nm to Fraser Island on day 1, 17 hours and 104nm from Magnetic Island to Bowen
Biggest disappointment: Not getting to more islands in the Bunker Group
Best walk: Cooks Look on Lizard Island
Best fishing: Trolling for mackeral north of Cairns
Friendliest people: Lots but the cruisers at Lizard Island get the nod
Cheapest marina: Dungeness (near Lucinda) $35
Dearest marina: Abel Point Marina $110

Better Late than Never - Lizard Is Trip Stats

2012-01-17T16:57:00.000+10:00

Some figures to ponder.........

Total days away - 110 days (nearly 16 weeks)
Total miles travelled - 2380 nm
Days on the move - 57 days
Time on the move - 396 hrs
Sailing time - 60% (more like 75% if you take out the time to get into and out of anchorages)
Motor hours - 111hrs (port), 113hrs (starboard)
Fuel consumption - 1.8 litres per engine per hour
Average speed - 6.0 kn (this includes time dropping and raising the anchor)
Best sailing average - 8.4 kn from Cape Bedford to Lizard for 4 hours with a triple reef
Max Speed - 16.3 kn on the log
Max wind we sailed in - 30 kn (25 of the 57 days we sailed had maximum wind over 20 knots)
Nights in marinas - 16 nights including 5 at Mooloolaba.
Gas refills - 4 (25 days per 3.5 kg bottle for cooking)

Compared to our trip in 2010 in Next Phase we had less time in marinas due to the increased water tanks, fuel consumption and average speeds about the same although a lot more time sailing. We went further north but travelled less miles overall. Less days on the move as we had a few long days to cover the miles.

Home at Last

2011-11-28T21:56:00.000+10:00

Friday, 11 November 2011 - Fraser Island to Mooloolaba

We were up early and joined the queue to cross the bar on the last of the incoming tide. Swell was small and there was little wind so the crossing was our most benign outward one yet. It is always good when that is over and you head down the coast to Mooloolaba.

After rounding Double Island Point we set the spinnaker in a light easterly. We carried it to Noosa before the breeze went more to the SE.

Warren landed our first Cobia which we released before we realised what it was. They are rated 4 star eating in our fish guide!

We entered the Mooloolah River about 1600 and anchored in the pond. We had booked into the Yacht Club Marina for the following 4 nights so Warren could celebrate his birthday here. We went to the movies, had several swims and had lunch with Nanette and Stuart from Truest Passion who live at Mooloolaba.

Wednesday, 16 November 2011 - Mooloolaba to Raby Bay

We left about 0630 for the final day of our 2011 cruise. We motor sailed until south of Caloundra when the breeze went to the east and we could set our trusty spinnaker. We carried it all the way home except for a short section down the Spitfire Channel. The breeze freshened after lunch to 15 - 20 knots to give us a final memorable spinnaker run.

We entered Raby Bay at 1430 to fog horn blasts from Warren and my Mum waving on the bank. It was a great way to finish our 3 and a half month trip.

We have been very busy since getting home but we will post the trip stats and highlights soon.

Fraser Island

2011-11-10T17:17:00.000+10:00

Wednesday, 9 November 2011 - Lady Musgrave to Fraser Is

With a NE predicted, we decided to bypass Bundaberg and head straight for Fraser Island. It meant a long day but the weather is looking good for crossing the infamous Wide Bay Bar on Friday. We set a course for Moon Point as it gave us a better angle than Rooney Point. This worked well as we were able to set our spinnaker and keep our speed up even though the breeze was in the 8 - 10 knot range. 1640 the breeze dropped out and we motorsailed the final 20 miles. Engines off behind a very calm Moon Point at 2000 after a total of 87nm.

Thursday, 10 November 2011 - Moon Pt to Pelican Bay

We set off early to catch the tide down to Sheridan Flats which is the crossover point for tides in the Straits. If you time your trip well, you will have 2 knots of tide with you the whole journey. This was another reason we chose to stay an Moon Point last night as high tide is 0900.

Next to no wind so we motored most of the time except for half an hour with spinnaker only (first time we have tried this). We are now anchored at Pelican Bay and we have had a 15 - 20 knot NE for the last few hours (hope this doesn't increase the swell for tomorrow). About 10 boats anchored waiting to cross tomorrow morning.

Lady Musgrave Island

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The predicted southerly change was a bit of a fizzer but we had a couple of nice days in Pancake Creek. Warren finally found the spot where he could catch some whiting which we enjoyed and I finished my jigsaw that I started at Lizard Island.

It is a mosaic puzzle composed of many small photos. It is amazing how they are constructed but they are quite hard. If you like jigsaws and a challenge then give one a go.

Sunday, 6 November 2011 - Pancake Ck to Lady Musgrave Is

A 0530 start as the wind is in the east which is of course where we want to go. We sailed for a couple of hours but with a moderate swell we decided to start an engine so we could point higher and get to the anchorage with the sun still overhead to see the bommies. We entered the lagoon just after 1400 and found a good spot to anchor over sand. We were immediately greeted by some turtles including 2 amorous ones.

We spent 3 nights here - snorkelling, walking around the island and sundowners with Neil and Debbie from the Seawind 1000XL Zolibato one evening. The water is an amazing colour and visibility was good given that the wind was 10 - 15 knots every day.

The island is an important nesting site for a range of birds who took little notice of us as we walked the tracks. The light through the trees was beautiful even if the smell was not in places.

We will definitely be back to visit here again.

Milestones

2011-11-04T14:08:00.000+10:00

On the trip out to Great Keppel Island on Wednesday we passed 2000 nm for this trip so far.

On checking our logs for Next Phase, we also discovered we are just 34 nm short of having sailed a total of 10000 nm in the last 4 and a half years. It's a start but still a long way short of the 23,000 nm covered by Jessica Watson!

Northerly at last

2011-11-04T13:51:00.000+10:00

Thursday, 3 November 2011 - GKI to Pancake Creek

After 2 nights at Keppel Bay Marina while the strong southerly change went through, we sailed out on Wednesday morning but the lack of wind sent us to Great Keppel for another night.

Thursday was moving day as we continued our journey south in company with 7 other cruisers. The 0600 start saw little wind and it was 1100 before the NW reached 10 knots and we could finally silence the motor. We raised the spinnaker and set off in close company with a Fusion 40 New Tricks who we had first met at Port Clinton.

We covered 40 nm in the next 5 hours as the breeze increased to the predicted 15 - 20 knots. Great conditions as can be seen with Aquavista at right. We were anchored by 1620 having covered 69 miles for the day. The entrance to Pancake Creek had large swells but we moved well into the creek and found a good spot, even at high water when the banks were covered.

Our plan was to head to Lady Musgrave Island today, Friday, however another southerly change is expected tomorrow so we have decided to let it pass before hopefully heading out on Sunday for a few nights. This is the last spot we are keen to visit on this trip as we have never had the right conditions on previous occasions through this area.

South to Yeppoon

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Sunday, 23 October 2011 - Long to Goldsmith Island

58 nm on the log to cover about 35 nm to windward in 15 to 20 knot winds. Tide was also against us so this was not one of our nicer days sailing. This is a beautiful anchorage and it was a pity we only had time for 1 night but we needed to keep making progress south now that the winds have eased.

Monday, 24 October 2011 - Goldsmith to Scawfell Island

The breeze oscillated between E and SE so on the wind again and another 60 nm on the log today. Not quite as windy as yesterday so a more pleasant sail. Warren caught a 1.2m Spanish Mackerel which we released as it was too big. Lack of freezer space and a fear of ciguatera poisoning makes these fish safe from us.

Tuesday, 25 October 2011 - Scawfell to Curlew Island

We sailed and motor sailed the 57 nm to windward. The predicted afternoon sea breeze came in as we dropped anchor at 1630. We went ashore for our first walk in 4 days!

Wednesday, 26 October 2011 - Curlew to Middle Percy Island

No wind today, so we motored the 27 nm to Middle Percy which gave me time to make a flag to hang in the A frame. We anchored in West Bay with 15 other boats and went ashore to hang our flag next to last years for Next Phase.

Thursday, 27 October 2011 - Middle Percy to Port Clinton

Light winds from the E and NE had us motoring and motorsailing most of the day. We were surprised to see a whale and its calf off Island Head Creek. We thought they should be well south of here at this time of year.

Another 65nm so we had planned to spend several nights at Port Clinton so Warren could do some crabbing. No crabs but fresh mackerel for dinner again. I should mention at this point that I have become a primary producer.... of alfalfa sprouts. These help fill the gap when the lettuce runs out.

Saturday, 29 October 2011 - Port Clinton to Great Keppel Island

Motorsailing until the breeze filled in around lunchtime. We sailed with 3 other cats including a Seawind 1000 Avingot. We anchored at Resort Beach which still has the clearest water we have found at 1600 after 52 nm. Today, Sunday we had a swim, went for a walk and a kayak to make up for our lack of exercise over the last week.

Tomorrow we are going into the marina at Rosslyn Bay for 2 nights to prepare for the last leg of our trip home.

Wet, windy Whitsundays

2011-10-22T17:00:00.000+10:00

Sunday, 16 October 2011 - Bowen to Airlie Beach

A 0900 start in a light NE breeze that went to the east through Gloucester Passage. A slow day where we alternated between sailing and motorsailing. We stopped at the public pontoon at Abel Point to top up the water before anchoring at 1700 near the Airlie Beach VMR ramp to watch the rugby.

Monday, 17 October 2011 - Airlie Beach to Cid Harbour

We sailed over to Cid Harbour to wait out the strong SE change that had come through during the evening. We spent 4 nights here under overcast skies and with showers and rain. We caught up with Billabong and Splash who we had met at Cairns and Lizard and are on their way back to Pittwater.

Only excitement was when a charter boat dropped anchor in front of us and promptly got in the dinghy and disappeared to climb Whitsunday Peak. Unfortunately they dragged towards us and Warren had to shunt them away in the dinghy while I brought up the anchor so we could reanchor in front of them. We called the charter company who sent out a Securite message. Another yachty offered to go on board and let out more chain. The people returned a couple of hours later to find their yacht about 100 m from where they had left it.

Everyone is waiting for the SE winds to ease and hopefully go to the E or NE. This included a couple from Canada we met who have circumnavigated and are now visiting their children in Australia and New Zealand.

Friday we headed back to Airlie to reprovision in anticipation of the winds easing on the weekend.

Saturday, 22 October, 2011 - Airlie Beach to Happy Bay

We visited the Airlie markets before recommencing our voyage south. The wind was still around the 15-20 knot mark from the SE and we decided to stop at Happy Bay rather than continue to bash south. Looks like it will be Monday or Tuesday before the breeze becomes more favourable.

Bowen

2011-10-22T08:41:00.001+10:00

Friday, 14 October 2011 - Magnetic Is to Bowen

Our longest day since our overnighter on the first day of this trip - 104 nm. We left Young Bay at 0600 in a light Northerly. We motorsailed around the top of Magnetic and set the spinnaker once clear. It was down an hour later as the breeze weakened. By 1100 it was up again as we headed towards Cape Bowling Green. Several monos were heading here for the evening but we had decided to press on as the breeze had settled in and we were making good miles south.

Warren caught a 90cm Spanish Mackeral just north of Cape Upstart as we passed another couple of boats also heading for Bowen. We dropped the kite as the sun set and 2 sail reached past Abbott Point Jetty.

We motor sailed from 2000 and had the anchor down in the calm of Bowen at 2300.

We spent Saturday at Bowen, no crabs but a walk up town found a Supa IGA to top up the stores. Bowen is famous for the murals painted on many of the buildings and for being the location of the movie Australia. It was a great anchorage in the strong northerly, there is a public pontoon in the harbour to tie the dinghy and get water and we would recommend a visit if you get the chance.

Fantome Island

2011-10-13T18:19:00.000+10:00

Tuesday, 11 October 2011 - Hinchinbrook Marine Cove

We went into Dungeness on the high tide and tied up to the pontoon. Peer Pressure was also tied up and we caught up with Rad and Chris in the afternoon. We came in here to see my friend Marie and her husband Rob who live in Ingham. After sundowners on board, we were driven to their place for dinner. Unfortunately Marie and Rod's new house at Forrest Beach has not started yet. A late night with many good stories told over a wine or two.

Wednesday, 12 October 2011 - Dungeness to Fantome Island

We left around 0900 at high tide in a slight fog. The fog increased as we approached the Lucinda Jetty and visibility was down to about 50m. We watched the radar and followed another cat out. We couldn't see the leads so went off the chart bearings. Only about 4m as we approached the fairway buoy which was further north than marked on the chart. Motorsailed most of the way to Juno Bay on Fantome Island except for an hour and a half under spinnaker.

Thursday, 13 October 2011 - Fantome Island to Magnetic Island

We went ashore briefly to look at the ruins of the leprosarium on the island. We took a few photos for our friend Peter Ludlow who has written a book about Peel Island and the leprosarium there. In this he explains that the aborigines with leprosy were moved from Peel Island to Fantome Island in 1939.

We left Fantome Island at 0930 and anchored in Young Bay on the W corner of Magnetic Island at 1530. 32nm under spinnaker in light northerlies with some motorsailing when the wind died for an hour at lunchtime. Warren has caught a nice Spotted Grunter for dinner.

We continue South

2011-10-10T17:46:00.001+10:00

Thursday, 6 October 2011 - Cairns to Fitzroy Island

After morning tea with Pam and John from Allikat who were staying in Cairns, our departure from Half Moon Bay marina was delayed after we saw a bird walking on the water in front of our marina berth. Warren got in the dinghy and found there was only 0.4m in front! We eventually got away about 1500 and arrived at Fitzroy Island around sunset. Truest Passion had saved us a spot in a much less rolly anchorage then we had experienced last time we were here.

Truest Passion headed off early but we decided to spend Friday here and went for an early walk to the summit and the old lighthouse. Most of the walk was on the road that was built in the 50s to service the lighthouse. The track to the 268m summit included 500 steps (counting took my mind off how unfit I felt).

We also snorkeled off the beach and realized we have been spoiled with the sights on the outer reef. Lots of fish and nice coral but visibility was poor.

Saturday, 8 October 2011 - Fitzroy Is to Mourilyan Harbour

An early start in light winds before a short spinnaker run to Russell Island (19 nm south of Fitzroy). We picked up a mooring and went ashore for a look around. We were contemplating staying the night however a building northerly convinced us to continue on to Mourilyan Harbour.

The wind had risen to 25 kn by the time we entered the harbour and with a fierce tide running, anchoring was a challenge. Good holding though and we awoke to a light fog.

Sunday, 9 October 2011 - Mourilyan Hbr to Hinchinbrook Is

Motorsailing all morning in light breezes gave Warren an opportunity to watch Bathurst on TV. Note the person on watch also didn't miss out.

We also discovered that today the range of the AIS was much greater than usual. The shot at right shows large ships we were picking up 400nm away in the Coral Sea as well as a yacht we knew nearly 200nm away. Not bad given the range yacht to yacht is usually limited to about 20nm.

Here is a tip if you have a Raymarine AIS. If you have tagged a yacht as a buddy, you can set it to display their name on screen automatically. Lets you know who is out and about. That's how we identified Blue Heeler 200 nm away.

Around lunchtime a 15 - 20 kn NE breeze came in and we set the spinnaker. We anchored in Gayundah Creek in time to watch the second half of the Wallabies win over South Africa.

On Monday we motored down to Bluff Creek to try and get a few crabs. So far all we have caught are a LOT of March flies. Phase2 is all closed up with screens in the 32 degree heat as I write this. See, it's not all perfect out here.

PS. Don't forget you can register to receive an email when the blog is updated. Just register your email in the box at the right.

Cairns and Skyrail

2011-10-10T16:44:00.000+10:00

Monday, 3 October to Wednesday, 5 October 2011

As well as the usual chores you might expect after over 3 weeks away from civilization, we made time while we were in Cairns for a trip up to Kuranda on the Skyrail. It was great although Warren is not a fan of heights and had a firm grip on the cable car door at all times.

The trip takes about 45 minutes in total with stops at Red Peak and Barron Falls. There is a short rainforest walk with a ranger at Red Peak station.

Once at Kuranda there are plenty of touristy shops including a number selling aboriginal arts and crafts including this one in a pirate ship. Not sure of the connection but it was worth a picture.

The Great Barrier Reef

2011-10-06T14:56:00.001+10:00

Thursday, 29 September 2011 - Lizard Is to Ribbon Reef No 5

We left Lizard at 0600 in a 20 knot SE wind that eased to 10 to 15 knots by lunchtime. 8 boats left today including Truest Passion (Seawind 1160) and Allikat (Lightwave 45) who we were travelling with to Ribbon 5.

The shift to the north east that we were hoping for did not eventuate so it was hard going to cover the 53 nm to Ribbon 5. Good news was we caught 2 Spanish Mackeral while Truest Passion with 8 fish invited Allikat and us for dinner that evening.

By 1400 we were motoring in a light easterly and racing to get the anchor down before dark. Definitely not recommended although we followed the others who had forward facing sonar to assist. 71nm covered in the day.

Friday, 30 September 2011 - Ribbon Reef No 5

I think we both had a mental image of the Great Barrier Reef as being a large continuous barrier with only a few openings. We were surprised to see this morning that the reef between Phase2 and the Coral Sea was quite narrow. There are hundreds of reefs in a maze that overlap and interconnect to form the GBR. It is strange to be swimming in 4m of water knowing that about 100m away it is 1600m deep.

We had spent a calm night in the perfect conditions and discovered that the ketch Tic Tac which was beside us at Bluewater Marina was anchored nearby. Karl dropped by with some coral trout that he had speared and offered to show us the best snorkeling spots. We snorkeled most of the morning in the clearest water we had encountered so far.

Another beautiful night with dinner together on Allikat.

Saturday, 1 October 2011 - Ribbon No 5 to St Crispin Reef

0700 start so we could see the bommies and a nice 7-10 kn westerly as a bonus. We put our spinnaker up while Allikat started with screecher and Truest Passion with their code zero. Both eventually put up spinnakers as the breeze went to the NW before dying about 1030. We had some nice photos by then and we motor sailed to St Crispins where we anchored about 1500 after having covered 44 nm.

Dinner on board Phase2 where we all enjoyed Karl's coral trout.

Sunday, 2 October 2011 - St Crispins to Cairns

With a forecast of 15-20 SE, we headed out through the opening north of St Crispins to the Coral Sea to come into our planned anchorage of Michaelmas Reef through the Trinity Opening - the largest opening near Cairns. Unfortunately the breeze was soon up to 25 knots and gusting higher and the seas were quite rough. By lunchtime with no drop in the wind strength, we all decided to head for Yorkeys Knob marina. We were tied up at 1700 after 66nm.

Lizard Island

2011-10-04T21:57:00.001+10:00

Tuesday, 13 September to Wednesday, 28 September 2011

We have heard so much about Lizard from various friends that there was a risk that it might not live up to our expectations. I am happy to say this was not the case. "Blizzard" Island lived up to its name for most of the two weeks we were there. I don't think the wind dropped below 25 knots in the first week. It didn't stop us enjoying what the island has to offer and we quickly got used to the wind.

We saved our first snorkel until the white caps had disappeared from the anchorage. The clam garden had huge clams, a range of different hard and soft corals and a wide variety of fish. We later snorkeled along the rocks, at Turtle Bay and on a very small bommie that must be the equivalent of Hong Kong in the coral reef world. The number of fish on a bommie that measured about 4 meters across was amazing!

There is a well behind the beach where you can pump good quality water that we used for washing and cleaning the boat. We also showered here after our swims to get rid of the salt. This meant our 690l of water lasted very well.

We walked to the Research Station and had a very informative tour and also walked to the Blue Lagoon on the southern side of the island. We watched the reef sharks stalking fish in close and admired the handiwork of some creative folk who had created a wind chime using bamboo.

One highlight was the climb to the top of Cook's Look where Capt James found a passage through the reef after repairing the Endeavour after previously running aground.

Hard work to climb the 359m to the summit but what a view!

The real highlight of the trip was the many interesting yachties we met at the 5pm sundowners on the beach each day. There was an average of 20 boats each night, but when the first weather window came after a week anchored, 10 boats left for Cairns. We elected to stay until the next window which was to be 10 days later. You need to have plenty of time available to wait for the right weather if you are going South.

1042 hPa High in the West!

2011-09-17T15:50:00.002+10:00

Friday, 9 September 2011 - Cairns to Low Isles

We got away about 1130 in a very light NE breeze. We motorsailed the 30 nm to the Low Isles and anchored well in as a strong SE change was expected during the night. The anchorage was good although there was some swell at high tide when the reef was covered.

With a strong wind warning forecast, we spent Saturday here and watched the tourists come in for a snorkel and sunbake before heading off back to Port Douglas. We went for a walk around the island, (about 20 minutes!), watched the bat fish and had a lazy day.

Sunday, 11 September 2011 - Low Isles to Cape Bedford

The wind was still up although the strong wind warning was cancelled, so we headed off early when the wind was predicted to be lighter. The weather men had it right again and we set the spinnaker in about 15 knots of breeze. By 1100 the breeze was gusting up over 20 knots so we dropped the kite after recording 16.3 knots at one stage. By 1400 we had put in the second reef as we had a steady 20 knots with gusts up to 27.

We decided to bypass Hope Island and continue on to Cape Bedford - a distance of 80 miles. The anchorage at Hope Islands is more exposed than Bedford which proved to be very comfortable as we had gone in as close as possible. A strong wind warning was forecast for Monday and with the big high, it did not look like improving over the next few days.

Monday, 12 September 2011 - Cape Bedford to Lizard Island

25 - 30 knots was forecast so we headed off with a triple reef and our jib for the 38 nm to Lizard Island. We had decided to proceed as the seas are much less than would normally be expected further south due to the proximity of the reef.

It was an uneventful sail, dodging cargo ships off Cape Flattery and averaging 8.4 knots for the trip. I took some video in the cabin as it was eerily quiet here as we beam reached along at 10, 11 knots.

We arrived at Lizard at 1100 and anchored in close to the beach with 20 other boats.

North to Cairns

2011-09-09T10:53:00.001+10:00

Monday, 5 September 2011 - Horseshoe Bay to Dunk Island

Forecast today is for the wind to drop to 20 - 25 knots so we headed out at 0630 in about 15 knots to see what conditions were like. We had decided if conditions were good we would go to Dunk Island, if not we would bail out at Orpheus Island. By 1100 the wind had not increased so we raised the spinnaker when we were in the lee of Havanna Island. We carried it until dark in a steady 15 knots with occasional higher gusts.

We were anchored at Dunk Island by 1920 after 90 nm. The resort was badly damaged by Cyclone Yasi and is apparently for sale.

Our excitement for the day was seeing what we think was Migaloo, the white whale, off Hinchinbrook. While not too close we saw numerous tail slaps and breeches and could not see any dark colour on the whale. The whale came a long way out of the water to slap its tail - very spectacular. No photos unfortunately.

Tuesday, 6 September 2011 - Dunk Island to Fitzroy Island

New territory today as we set the spinnaker again in perfect 10 - 15 knot SE conditions. By 1100 the breeze was up to 15 - 20 knots and we were making good time in the slight seas. By lunch the wind was a steady 20 knots with gusts up to 26 recorded. At 1330, we decided it was time to pull down the kite after we recorded our fastest speed in Phase2 to date of 14.3 knots. While not as exciting, we still averaged 8 knots for the 63 nm to Fitzroy Island and were anchored by 1500.

Our early arrival gave us time to go ashore and explore some of the island. There is a nice resort here and it is popular with day trippers as well. While here the Mayan Queen IV anchored nearby. The 300 foot megayacht is owned by the second richest man in Mexico. It looks amazing but we get the same view from Phase2.

Wednesday, 7 September 2011 - Fitzroy Island to Cairns

A short 20 nm trip today to Bluewater marina at Trinity Beach. We stopped and refuelled at Half Moon Bay marina coming in as there is no fuel at Bluewater. While here we saw Attitude, Alan and Michelle's new catamaran which is joining the Louisiades Rally next week.

Bluewater marina is fairly new, amenities are basic however there is a courtesy car (3 hours for $5) which makes here pretty attractive. The marina is up the creek a bit and we had only 1.1m (our draft) at low tide as we entered. Lots of crocs apparently!

We planned originally to be here 3 nights but after meeting the group from Half Moon Bay that are going to Lizard, we have decided to leave today, Friday as the weather is forecast to deteriorate tomorrow. Hopefully we will be away before lunch. About 25 nm to Low Isles.

We plan to be at Lizard for a couple of weeks at least and as we are not sure if we will get internet coverage there the blog may be silent for a while.

North to Magnetic Island

2011-09-04T15:48:00.001+10:00

Tuesday, 30 August 2011 - Bona Bay to Upstart Bay

An easterly breeze between 5 and 15 knots had us sailing under spinnaker for most of the day. This is always fun and more so when Warren is catching fish! 1 mackeral and 2 large Queenfish (1 released) by 0830 so we pulled in the lures as we have enough fillets for weeks.

Cloud sitting over Cape Upstart was thick and we sighted a whale between us and the Cape as we passed. 54 nm in the day.

Wednesday, 31 August 2011 - Upstart Bay to Horseshoe Bay

Off at 0630 again in a 10 - 15 kn SE so spinnaker up again. We are certainly getting our money's worth from this sail. As the morning progressed, the wind veered to the east and freshened to over 20 knots and we decided it was time to pull the kite down. We are getting a bit of practice at this manoeuvre and have found that you need to run very square to make sure the kite collapses before easing the sheet once the breeze is up.

Our max log speed of the day of 12.8 knots came with poled out jib in the big seas as we rounded Cape Cleveland. Warren wants to tighten the steering cables as there is a bit more slack than he would like.

We anchored in Horseshoe Bay at 1700 after covering over 75 nm and averaging 7.5kn for the day.

Thursday, 1 September to Sunday, 4 September 2011 - Magnetic Island

Strong winds have extended our stay here but there are lots of places to go and new friends to make.

We caught the bus to Nelly Bay to look around and see the fleet for Magnetic Island race week. Some large yachts with expensive sails mixing it with trailerable yachts including several Ross 780s (our last TS).

Lots of interesting sights including a rock wallaby that seems to live on the rock wall of the marina.

Shag Islet CYC or Shaggers

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Thursday, 25 August to Monday, 29 August 2011

Thursday morning we sailed from Airlie, through the Gloucester Passage to find about 50 yachts anchored off Montes Resort. We went around the corner to anchor with another 30 or so off the Eco Resort.

We went ashore, collected our SICYC blue shirts, burgee and membership cards and started the 4 days of fun meeting other like minded yachties including a few old friends we hadn't expected to see. We were impressed with the effort some people put into decorating their boats.

We had welcome drinks on Thursday, followed by the Redezvous at Shag Islet for Friday lunch. We caught up with Max and Merna from our trailer sailer days, Mark and Sue from Cleveland and John and Gayle from Hadja. We also met a number of interesting locals including Brian and Kay (ex Southbank TAFE).

The sea of blue was entertained by "Macca" who was joined by the "Shagettes" as the afternoon wore on. Saturday saw another party at Montes, including a massive raffle and auction of unclaimed prizes. It had a Jimmy Buffet Parrot head theme so lots of Hawaiian shirts and interesting hats. An amazing $10,000 was raised for Prostate Cancer Research over the weekend.

Sunday we were bussed to the Dingo Beach pub for a spit roast and another chance to catch up with friends - this time in our pirate garb. We really have to invest in better costumes as some people's are amazing. The tide here goes out quite a way so we would not have an opportunity to visit here normally.

All this partying meant we spent a quiet day on Monday at Bona Bay on Gloucester Island before continuing our trip North.

Thomas Island and Airlie Beach

2011-08-24T11:17:00.000+10:00

Thursday & Friday 18, 19 August 2011, Thomas Island

We arrived at Thomas to find Peer Pressure here. The boat changed hands recently and Len and Isla helped new owner Rad bring it to Yeppoon. Rad and Chris are taking their time seeing the sights on the way home to Lucinda.

While here, a group of kayakers arrived who had traveled from Mackay over the last 4 days. They set up camp and enjoyed a large cod caught on one of the catamarans and donated to them for dinner.

The highlight of our 2 nights at Thomas was sundowners on the beach with the crews of 4 other boats anchored here. With home ports of Brisbane, Lake Macquarie, Lucinda and London there were many interesting stories and laughs to share.

Saturday, 20 August 2011 Thomas to Cid Harbour

Another great spinnaker run down the Whitsunday Passage in 15 - 20 kn SE winds. We spent Sunday morning here and climbed Whitsunday Peak to enjoy the view. Over to Airlie Beach on Sunday afternoon where we anchored off the VMR and boat ramp.

Shopped Monday morning before we went into the Abel Point Marina for one night. The motors had their 50 hour service and Warren got a few tips so he can do it himself if required.

We spent Tuesday night again at anchor off the VMR so I could get a haircut. The wind is still up so we are also staying here tonight, Wednesday before we head to Glouchester Passage for the Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club Rendezvous.

Nature at its best

2011-08-19T12:23:00.010+10:00

Wednesday, 17 August 2011 Blunt Bay to Refuge Bay

Another day with the sun shining and spinnaker up most of the day. With an easterly breeze it was a good angle and we were doing 5-6 knots in 6 - 8 knots of breeze and 8 - 9 knots in 12 - 15 knots of breeze. Our maximum speed of 9.7 knots was good considering the maximum gust we had was 15 knots. The later departure from Brisbane has meant a lot more time with the spinnaker up rather than double reefed in 20+ knots.

Today we had dolphins join us off Mackay (same place as last year) and a whale that crossed our bow and then swam past about 20m off the starboard side.

I saw the dolphins in the distance and they approached at speed and jumped out in unison as they came alongside (I am sure they just wanted to make sure we were watching). We were running under kite at 8 - 9 knots at the time and they had a great time as they surfed the bow then came back and surfed the stern wave.

Thursday, 18 August 2011 Scawfell to Thomas Island

Light NW to start so we motored and heard the sound that all sailors dread - the sound of something falling from the mast and hitting the deck. Of course it falls overboard and try as we might we couldn't see what came undone. The mystery was solved an hour later when as a SW breeze came in, we raised the sails. The jib dropped to the deck and we found the shackle pin missing. The spinnaker halyard was put to use until I could raise Warren up the mast with the electric winch once anchored at Thomas Island (installed for just this purpose). More excitement followed when a baby whale breached about 50m away. Warren had to point up as they crossed in front - the baby continuing to breach as we passed.

A bit later we had a 70 cm mackeral on the line, our first of the trip. Warren said it looks smaller in the photo. Regardless, it tasted great last night.

The breeze had died again so we started the motors just as a large pod of dolphins joined us. The 20+ dolphins included several babies and they entertained us for half an hour before getting bored and moving on.

What a day!

Blunt Bay, North East Island, Percy Group

2011-08-19T10:37:00.010+10:00

Monday, 15 August 2011 Island Head Creek to Blunt Bay

Another great spinnaker run all day where we averaged nearly 8 knots for the 54nm to Blunt Bay on North East Island. 2 nights here to ourselves in what is a very picturesque bay. Just after arriving a whale appeared and cruised into the bay for a look around. We saw several others go by and heard them singing at night.

There has been no grazing on this island so the trees remain and these go right down to the pebbly beaches. We kayaked to the one sandy beach and saw fish but none for the table.

A highlight of my time here was completing the jigsaw my sister, Lynne gave me for my last birthday - Michelangelo's Creation of Man in the Sistine Chapel. My family and former work colleagues know I love jigsaws and so I have made a jigsaw mat so I can have some on Phase2 and put it away when I'm not working on it. My next challenge is a mosaic puzzle of the Titanic which may not be quite as relaxing as this one has been.

Overall, a nice anchorage but a bit rolly.

Yeppoon and Shoalwater Bay

2011-08-19T10:02:00.003+10:00

Tuesday, 9 August 2011 Yellow Patch to Rosslyn Bay

We left at 0600 from Yellow Patch to ensure we had enough tide and after a brief period with the spinnaker up had to motor sail again when the breeze dropped below 8 knots. We arrived at the marina at lunchtime but were unable to contact them as they had lost all power. Eventually went in and tied up at the end of the finger and waited for power to be restored late in the afternoon.

We booked the courtesy car for the following afternoon as we had to buy a new generator. Our 1kVa Honda wasn't big enough to power the 60A charger on Phase2. We got a 2kVa Honda generator in Yeppoon. Anyone need an as new generator? Works well on the 30A charger in the 1000s! We also did the shopping and bought a few other items in the 2 hours we had the car. This is a great service offered by Keppel Bay Marina.

Warren ran into John from Hadja (Seawind 1160) while here. They are also heading up to the Shag Islet Rendezvous. We ended up staying another night in the marina when a strong N came in on Thursday.

Friday, 12 August, 2011 Rosslyn Bay to Pearl Bay

We set the spinnaker soon after leaving at 0700 and gybed downwind until after Cape Manifold when the breeze got up over 20 knots. We arrived at Pearl Bay at 1610 after 55nm and anchored with 8 other boats in this beautiful bay.

Awoke late the next morning to find everyone had left and we had the bay to ourselves until lunch when the next group started to appear. 10 here on Saturday night which was quite rolly as the swell was more to the east.

Sunday we headed around to Island Head Creek to escape the swell.

Yellow Patch

2011-08-08T12:21:00.004+10:00

Saturday, 6 August 2011 Pancake Creek to Cape Capricorn

We left at 0800 in a 10-15 kn south easterly and moderate swell. Spinnaker up again until the breeze increased over 20 knots. After lunch it died below 10 knots and we motor sailed to try to reduce the slatting of the main. Eventually the spinnaker went up again and we anchored off Cape Capricorn at 1520.

We climbed up to the lighthouse on Sunday morning and watched the Keppel race yachts sail by. We motored into Yellow Patch on Sunday afternoon just before high tide using our coordinates from last year which had not changed much.

We are staying here until Tuesday when the marina at Rosslyn Bay has space after the race yachts move on up the coast for Hamilton Island Race Week.

Pancake Creek

2011-08-08T11:47:00.006+10:00

Tuesday, 2 August 2011 Kingfisher Bay to Bundaberg

Left at 0700, pushing tide which made for slow going to start. We anchored off the marina at Bundaberg at 1640 after 58 nm alternating between spinnaker and motor sailing with one engine. The breeze was E to SE between 5 and 12 knots. We were surprised to immediately get a call from Dave and Lorna who now own Next Phase. They are in the marina and heading north to Pancake Creek tomorrow also.

Wednesday, 3 August to Saturday, 6 August 2011, Bundaberg to Pancake Creek

We left about 0615 about an hour after Next Phase and the 2 cats they are travelling with. Breeze was S to SE between 12 and 20 knots. We set the spinnaker after clearing the leads and set off after the boats ahead. Initially we gained quickly until Dave and Lorna set their spinnaker and then we kept pace all the way to Pancake Creek. A great days sailing averaging nearly 8 knots.

On Thursday we moved further up the creek as the anchor chain was noisy on the coral and gravel bottom. Warren caught a Giant Trevally off the boat after the move. We emailed a picture to my brother Dave who is a keen fisherman to see if ciguatera poisoning was an issue. After many years of telling TAFE students to be careful of large fish I was very cautious.

Dave posted to his fishing forum and came back that consensus was it was fine to eat. We had a small serve the next evening and it was beautiful. The wonders of technology!

We have been using our Telstra prepaid mobile WiFi and Skype when we have no Optus coverage. This seems to work well and is very cost effective.

We stayed here until Saturday morning enjoying the opportunity to catch up with Dave and Lorna for sundowners and the first real break of the trip.

Warmer weather is calling us.....

2011-08-01T20:29:00.009+10:00

Saturday, 30 July to Monday, 1 August, 2011

We got away about 1230 with a big farewell party (Mum, Josh and our friends the Madderns) to wave us off. We sailed through the night and crossed a benign Wide Bay Bar at 0730 then on to anchor at Garry's. Not our best trip as sloppy seas and the wind dead astern most of the time lead to an unpleasant motion. I succumbed to sea sickness but was fine by morning.

We met our friends Lois and Kel who had sailed their yacht Sea Time from Tin Can Bay to join us for the evening.

Today, Monday, we headed to Kingfisher Bay Resort where we went ashore to check out the facilities. There is a bar near the beach that welcomes visitors and has a pool, hot showers and serves lunch and dinner.

Very nice and Warren met one of the locals. We plan to come back here on our return trip.

We are off to Bundaberg tomorrow as Lizard Island beckons.

Official Christening

2011-07-18T20:30:00.003+10:00

Monday, 11 July 2011

With all the wet weather in Sydney, we didn't actually officially christen Phase2. Our son Ben was up from Melbourne last weekend so we took Mum and him out for a day on the bay and asked Mum to perform the honours.

It was a beautiful day off Coochie Mudlo and what champagne wasn't poured on the boat went well with lunch.

We are currently busy doing a lot of jobs in preparation for the trip north to Lizard Island in a couple of weeks. For every job I cross off the list, Warren adds 2 more!

Trip Statistics

2011-07-04T17:00:00.002+10:00

Some figures for this trip...........
Please note that the mileage and speeds are a bit low as the log is reading low. We need to calibrate before the next trip.
Total days away - 30 days
Total miles travelled - 541 nm
Motor hours - 38 hrs (port and starboard)
Days home from Pittwater - 11 days
Miles from Pittwater - 435 nm
Motor hours from Pittwater - 16 hrs (port and starboard)
Sailing time - 69% (more like 90% if you take out the time to get into and out of anchorages)
Fuel consumption - ?? yet to fill tanks although seems to be about 2l/hr/engine
Average speed - 5.8 kn (this includes time dropping and raising the anchor)
Best sailing average - 6.7 kn from Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour
Max Speed - 9.7 kn on the log
Max wind we sailed in - 31 kn

Home at Last

2011-07-04T16:32:00.005+10:00

Wednesday, 29 June 2011

Well our trip finished the way it started - cold, wet and windy. We left early to make sure we had enough tide up to Canaipa and to be home before the predicted strong winds later in the day. We motored initially through the narrow channels, then raised the main once we were past Canaipa.

We started with 2 reefs due to the strong wind warning, however removed them after the breeze seemed to have settled in around the 10 to 15 knot mark. Of course this was the sign for the wind to increase and we quickly put them back in as the wind increased to 30 knots. The new TyeTec reefing blocks are working well.

It was a quick sail home and Phase2 was soon tied up in her new berth.

We have a list of jobs to be completed before we head north again in a month or so.

Sunny Quensland

2011-06-28T15:59:00.008+10:00

Saturday, 25 June to Tuesday, 28 June 2011

We had one night at the Stadium where we caught up with Jenny and John from Corazon and compared notes about the trip north. They are heading up to the Whitsundays and we hope to see them again when we go north.

Sunday we motored up to the Southport Yacht Club's anchorage at Dux. We saw Jireh (SW1160) and Sunbird (SW100) before finding Tranquillity (SW1000XL) here. Alan and Margaret are also planning a trip north about the same time as us. We walked over to the surf and had a BBQ ashore with the Corazon crew on Monday evening.

Today, Tuesday we motored up to Slipping Sands for the last night of our trip. We'll miss being on the boat but not the cold weather. Do they make 12v heaters??

Coffs Harbour to Southport

2011-06-28T15:32:00.006+10:00

Friday 24 June 2011

We left early again for the 60nm trip to Yamba. A moderate SW/S breeze had us gybing downwind. After lunch we hoisted the spinnaker as the breeze had softened a little and we carried it to Yamba. The yacht Corazon had left Coffs after us and stayed about 5nm behind all day. They were heading for the Seaway and as we neared Yamba we contemplated also continuing our trip as the conditions were so good.

While the thought of a nice rest at Yamba was tempting, we eventually decided that we should make the most of the conditions and so amended our trip with Marine Rescue Iluka/Yamba and prepared for a night at sea. We dropped the kite on dusk, had some tea and started our watch system of 2 hours on, 2 hours off.

The radar was great to track all the trawlers and the breeze stayed in all night. We put the second reef in and enjoyed perfect sailing conditions. We were doing 5-6 knots over the ground which was perfect timing for a crossing of the Gold Coast Seaway around 0800.

We passed Cape Byron around midnight and logged off with the last NSW Marine Rescue at Point Danger at 0500. They are all linked by computer now which makes logging in as we travelled up the coast very easy. These volunteers do a great job.

We crossed the Seaway at 0800 as planned and then went around to anchor in the Stadium (also known as Bum's Bay). Corazon followed soon after. Scambled eggs for breakfast and then off to bed after covering 160nm (140nm on the log).

Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour

2011-06-27T15:52:00.004+10:00

Wednesday 22 June 2011

We left at 0730 with the last of an incoming tide and found the entrance flat due to the westerly (10-15 knots) we had. The breeze stayed in the W or SW all day which made for some good reaches up the coastline. We hugged the coast as much as possible to avoid the current.

By lunchtime as we passed Trial Bay Gaol, we had the second reef in as the breeze was over 20 knots and by 1500 we had gone to the third reef as it hit 30 knots. Even with 3 reefs we were sitting on 8 knots most of the time and enjoying the sail in the slight seas.

We arrived at the Coffs Harbour marina after dark and tied up to our berth on the end of the row after covering 74 nm. The temperature dropped to 2.8 degrees overnight and we were thankful for the flannelette sheets we had bought in Port Macquarie. We decided to spend Thursday in Coffs as the breeze was light from the NE.

We did a few more jobs (there is always something to do) and went for a very interesting walk to the top of Mutton Bird Island. It was hot and sunny and we bought out our shorts for the first time in weeks!

Port Stephens to Port Macquarie

2011-06-21T20:41:00.004+10:00

Monday, 20 June 2011

Another front heading this way so we are up early with the plan to go to Forster Tuncurry, a trip of 46nm. The sailing was perfect all day, SW/W wind that averaged 15 knots in the morning and eased a little in the afternoon. It was so good we decided to keep going to Coffs Harbour as the weather reports for tomorrow became steadily worse during the day.

A pod of 3 whales entertained us for an hour as we cruised with them up the coast. They breeched numerous times and amused themselves by slapping their tails and fins. They weren't even deterred when we had to start our motors as the breeze eased about 1600 and went around to the N/NW. As usual my timing of photos was off.

After 8 hours of motoring, we decided Port Macquarie looked a good option so decided to cross the bar just after midnight. There was very little swell and about 10 knots of westerly so we thought conditions ideal. A couple of largish waves as we approached surprised us but we entered the river without issue and took up one of the marina moorings up the river.

We spent today here sitting out the weather and plan to head off again tomorrow if the forecast is suitable for the trip to Coffs.

Pittwater to Port Stephens

2011-06-21T20:33:00.003+10:00

Sunday, 19 June 2011

We finally left Pittwater in a moderate south wester and swell of about 3m. The 2 reefs we had put in based on the forecast were quickly removed and we had a good reach all the way to Port Stephens in company with a large monohull Corazon. They decided to push on to Coffs Harbour while we stuck with our plan to go into Port Stephens.

We were surprised to see the 1160 Champagne on Ice appear among the anchored ships off Lake Macquarie.

A great day's sail soured somewhat when it took an hour to set the anchor after an chain alignment issue with the windlass became apparent. We eventually spent a quiet night at Soldiers Point after covering 70 nm back towards home at last.

Storm Jib

2011-06-21T20:01:00.004+10:00

Warwick and Ruth from Ulysses asked about the storm jib. Our sail was made by John Penfold at UK Halsey Sydney and we are very happy with it. (John also has made all the sails for our 1160). It clips over the furled jib and it works fine on both the 1000 and 1160. We have used it in 30+ knots a couple of times with 2 reefs in the main and Warren was surprised that the boat still tacked easily and we pointed ok.

We have found it is best to set it all up before you leave as our one attempt to do it on the run was complicated when the furling jib became unfurled when the sheet was removed. We now take much more care when tying the jib up and have had no problems since. It uses the standard jib sheets which makes setting it up easy.

We would recommend one if you are doing a lot of sailing as it certainly saves flogging the standard jib. It is nice to know it is there if you need it!

Pittwater

2011-06-15T12:22:00.011+10:00

Wednesday 8 June to Wednesday 15 June 2011
We have been at Pittwater for a week now, and while the weather has not been kind, we have had a chance to visit some great spots and also get a few jobs done on the boat before we head further North.

The windy conditions were also ideal for trying out the storm jib which we kept off Next Phase. It worked well without any modification.

The main is currently with UK Halsey getting a change to the reefing system that was installed. We are using TyeTec blocks on the leech to prevent rope chafe. One of the blocks had a defect and UK is replacing them all with smaller ones which will work better.

Last Friday Lois and Kel caught the train back to Singleton from Brooklyn. This was very convenient and a good spot to stop and get bread, milk etc. We are getting spoiled with the public moorings available in NSW.

We were glad we are currently tied up at Royal Motor Yacht Club as it was very gusty yesterday and last night (40-45 knots). A bit better today and hopefully it will continue to improve. Warren saw a penguin swim past the boat today - I told you it was cold! The main issue for us now is the swell and seas predicted (3-4m swell and 2-3m seas). We'll see what develops over the next few days.

State of origin tonight so Warren's main concern is that we are somewhere with good TV reception.

PS. We spent another 3 nights here at the Basin and enjoyed a walk around Coasters Retreat.

Sydney to Pittwater

2011-06-08T16:13:00.001+10:00

Tuesday 7 June 2011
On Monday we provisioned the boat in readiness for the short trip to Pittwater on Tuesday morning. It had been windy (and COLD) for days and there was a small weather window before the next front came through with 30 knot westerlies predicted. We had a good sail to Pittwater, picked up our new Swift RIB and found a mooring at The Basin for the night. It is very comfortable here although it is getting colder!

Sydney

2011-06-08T15:52:00.003+10:00

Wednesday 1 June to Monday 6 June 2011
We had test sails on Wednesday and Friday afternoons with David Renouf from Seawind who was very helpful in setting up the boat.

Our friends Lois and Kel joined us Thursday evening and we took Phase2 out by ourselves for the first time on Saturday for lunch at the nearby Hen and Chicken Bay. We visited the spectacular Sydney light festival and Archibald exhibition with them on Sunday.

Our stay was extended to allow some additional electronics to be installed and Seawind time to fix a few issues prior to heading home. We are very happy with the boat and the quick rectification of identified issues.

One thing we discovered when testing the AIS was that you could see our track for the previous 24 hours on the website www.marinetraffic.com (provided the AIS is on at the time you search). While having lunch on Saturday, we got a call from our son Ben to say he saw on this website we had moved the boat!

Handover of Phase2

2011-06-06T21:20:00.003+10:00

Monday 30 May, 2011 to Tuesday 31 May 2011
We spent the day with Murray and Chad from Seawind going over Phase2 from stem to stern. Chad is the supervisor of the 1160 production line and knows the boats inside out. We took the opportunity to learn as much as we could from him. As Service Manager, Murray was making sure we covered all aspects on his very comprehensive checklist.

As it poured all day, we did not get our test sail but the rain did allow us extra time going through the boat. Still raining Tuesday so we spent the day moving stuff out of the office and filling the many cupboards and storage areas. Test sail set down for Wednesday.

Off to Sydney

2011-05-31T22:16:00.003+10:00

Sunday, 29 May 2011 Brisbane to Sydney
Well the time has finally come to head south to pick up our new Seawind 1160. We had a lot of gear to bring down so decided to try to get a one way campervan relocation. Warren had visions of a luxury Winnebago with all the mod cons but what we ended up with was a Hippie Camper.

While we were dubious about the vans capacity, we were pleasantly surprised by how much fitted in. With our essentials packed (storm jib, tools, ropes, EPIRB, clothes, towels, sheets etc), Warren started to add some of the nice to haves (DVDs, extra fuel containers, fishing gear). The van got us here in one piece and we didn't have to worry about getting booked speeding.

Unfortunately the heavens opened as we approached Sydney and heavy rain made the unloading on Monday at Birkenhead Point marina difficult. We stored everything in the Seawind office so we could do the handover in a clear boat.

Seawind 1160 Factory Visit

2011-04-24T15:55:00.004+10:00

We have just come back from our second visit to the Seawind factory in Wollongong to see how the new cat is coming along. It is on schedule for a 23 May launch and we are getting very excited.

I hope we have finally stopped finding things to add to the options list which is fairly extensive. We have also found out that one of our neighbours is getting the 1160 after ours.

We plan to take a month to bring the boat back from Sydney which should be much cruisier than the 5 days we had last time with Next Phase. We have just bought a Telstra prepaid dongle to attach to our spreader mounted antenna, so we hope to have good coverage up most of the eastern coast.

Easter weather has been great and it has been hard not having a boat although we have got plenty of jobs to complete before we leave for Sydney in 4 weeks. Made the bridle yesterday and still have to check and update the paper charts.

Next Phase for Next Phase

2010-12-13T19:24:00.002+10:00

Yes, Next Phase is sold and now cruising with her new owners, Lorna and Dave, around Moreton Bay before heading south to Coffs Harbour.

We have a lot of wonderful memories of our trips with Next Phase but we are now looking forward to getting our new boat in May - a Seawind 1160. We hope to spend more time on her as we venture further afield.

So the blog will be silent for a while as we await the new cat and ponder the hardest question of all - what to call her!

Trip Statistics

2010-12-13T18:43:00.002+10:00

Some figures to ponder.........

Total days away - 126 days (18 weeks)
Total miles travelled - 2431 nm
Days on the move - 85 days
Time on the move - 413 hrs
Sailing time - 52% (more like 70% if you take out the time to get into and out of anchorages)
Motor hours - 185hrs (port), 190hrs (starboard)
Fuel consumption - 1.9 litres per engine per hour
Average speed - 5.9 kn (this includes time dropping and raising the anchor)
Best sailing average - 8.2 kn from Mackay to Scawfell for 3 hours and 8.0 kn from Bundaberg to Pancake Creek under spinnaker for over 7 hours
Max Speed - 18.2 kn on the GPS
Max wind we sailed in - 34 kn
Nights in marinas - 25 nights
Gas refills - 6 (3 weeks per 4 kg bottle for cooking and hot water)

2010 Dunk Island Trip Summary

2010-10-18T21:03:00.009+10:00

Best place to visit: Yellow Patch
Best beach: Bona Bay (Whitehaven if there weren't so many charter boats)
Safest anchorage: Cid Harbour (Good in all weather and a great walk to the peak)
Best marina: Port Hinchinbrook (Pool and tennis court winners here)
Best sail: Spinnaker run to Pancake Creek with Peer Pressure
Worst sail: Orpheus to Magnetic Island (on the nose into a big swell)
Scariest sail: Big wind and swells off South Percy Island.
Biggest disappointment: Not getting to Lady Musgrave Island (next year!)
Best walk: Whitsunday Peak
Best kayak: From Pancake to Jenny Lind Creek
Best fishing: Yellow Patch and those mackeral while trolling
Friendliest people: Lots but the cruisers at Horseshoe Bay on Magnetic Island get the nod
Cheapest marina: Gladstone $31
Dearest marina: Hamilton Island $95
Best spot for lunch: Zoe Bay waterfall on Hinchinbrook
Longest sail: 14 hours and 83 nm Townsville to Cape Upstart (most on the breeze)
Best restaurant: Snappers at Tin Can Bay
Clearest water: Great Keppel Island
Best brush with nature: Hearing the whales singing the first time off Stonehaven
Worst nature experience: Those #%$#@# magpies at Gladstone
Best boat improvement: Chain counter and saloon shade sails

Overall what is it about cruising that makes us leave our warm comfy bed for months on end......it's the chance to spend time with good friends, meet new people, visit new places, get close to nature and the feeling of satisfaction when you overcome the challenges that cruising throws your way.

Home Sweet Home

2010-10-18T20:36:00.005+10:00

Thursday 7 October

Well eventually the north easterly breeze came in and and we set the spinnaker for the run into Raby Bay. Better late than never after much motoring most of the morning.

We were met by our usual welcoming party (my Mum and Dad) who also double as our farewelling party! I was spoiled as Mum brought a tasty Shepherd's Pie for our dinner so I didn't have to cook our first night home.

Warren gave the traditional 3 blasts on the foghorn to mark our arrival and before we knew it the trip was over. There was one embarassing post script when we received a call from the Water Police about 6pm. They were concerned for us as we hadn't logged off with VKQ447 (Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club). As we hadn't logged on with them we hadn't felt the need to log off however our details had been passed on by VMR Redcliffe. The Water Police were very nice and glad there was no problem. We have used the VMR/Coastguard network up and down the coast and these volunteers do a fantastic job.

Homeward Bound

2010-10-07T11:05:00.003+10:00

Tuesday 5 October, Pelican Bay to Mooloolaba

8 boats were at Pelican Bay waiting like us for for the chance to cross the bar. We left at 5.30am with little wind but a 2.5m swell. The "Mad Mile" lived up to its name with large confused seas and we encountered a few waves that were about 3m and very steep in the shallowest section as we approached waypoint 1. We were glad when we were finally through although we didn't see any breaking waves in the channel (plenty on the banks!).

The wind came in about 10.30 and we sailed from here to the Mooloolah River where the swell was also up as we entered. It is a bit off putting to see surfers riding the swells as you approach the entrance.

We anchored in the pond and then moved to the Yacht Club Marina on Wednesday night. We had a surf, wnadered around the shops and contemplated the end of our cruise. It was very hot and we appreciated the shades we had made for the boat before we left.

Thursday 7 October, Mooloolaba to Raby Bay

Another 5am start to make the most of the incoming tide into the bay. No wind so motoring but with lots of shipping traffic in and out we are kept on our toes. We are hopeful of a NE sea breeze so we get a spinnaker run in for the last leg to Raby Bay.

Fraser Island

2010-10-07T10:31:00.003+10:00

Tuesday 28 September, Bundaberg to Big Woody Island

Our planned departure from Bundaberg was delayed until 7am due to thick fog. We still had only about 100m visibility as we left. No wind so we were forced to motor. The fog lifted slightly at 9am before getting thicker again around 10am. We were keeping a constant watch on radar and AIS and also raised our radar reflector. We had 2 yachts and a power boat following us about 2 nm astern but only the power boat was visible on the radar. We had a close encounter with a yacht coming from Fraser but luckily he also had AIS which was very reassuring. The fog finally lifted at 11.30 just before we reached the Fairway Beacon.

Still no sign of wind and with an ebb tide we decided to anchor at Big Woody.

Wednesday 29 September, Big Woody Island to Garry's Anchorage

We timed our trip down the Straits to make the most of the tide. A light NW wind so we raised the spinnaker and carried it most of the way helped by one and a half knots of tide the whole way.

We spent 4 nights at Garry's as there was a strong wind warning with winds SE up to 30 knots. The anchorage is very protected however and we sat with no more than 15 knots most of the time. Met some Lagoon owners who were also waiting for the wind and seas to abate so they could cross the bar.

Sunday 3 October, Garry's to Tin Can Bay

With the SE breezes forecast to hang around for another 3 days we head to Tin Can Bay marina to fill up the fuel and have a look around. It has been 15 years since we came here with our trailable yacht for the Bay to Bays and things have not changed a lot. The dolphin feeding is very popular.

Dinner at Snappers restaurant at the marina was fantastic - we would highly recommend it if you are up this way. Met Rhys and Jennifer from Pittwater at the restaurant and we were lamenting the never ending south easterlies. However by the morning there was a revised forecast and we decided to cut short our stay at Tin Can Bay and head to Pelican Bay in preparation for a bar crossing on Tuesday morning.

Bundaberg

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Saturday 25 September, Pancake Creek to Bundaberg

We had been waiting in Pancake Creek for a break in the weather so we could sail out to Lady Musgrave Island. The best day seemed to be today but as we headed out at 6am it became clear that with heavy rain we weren't going to get the visibility we wanted to find our way into the anchorage. We had taken a tack out to sea so moved to Plan B which was on to Bundaberg. The breeze started easing around lunchtime so we started a motor to keep us moving. It died completely later in the day and we motored into the river to anchor just off the marina at 6pm.

Sunday 26 September, Monday 27 September, Bundaberg

We moved into the marina on Sunday morning and Warren got a surprise when cleaning the boat to have a snake decide that it looked like a better place to be than in the flooding Burnett River. If you have been following the blog you will know Warren is not a fan of snakes so it stayed on the boat only long enough to get the picture! The extended transom of the 1000XL really does make it easy to get on board.

Sunday afternoon we rode the bikes to Bargara along an excellent bike trail that follows the coast at first and then runs behind Mon Repos. About 12k to Bargara which has a big IGA and Woolies another 1k out of town.

Monday we took the marina courtesy bus into town to shop and look around. Midtown marina is well positioned but looking a bit tired. With access to Bargara and Burnett Heads by bike and the free bus into town, I think we will stick with Bundaberg Port marina.

Pancake Creek

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Sunday 19 September, Gladstone to Turkey Beach

We left Gladstone Marina at noon which was later than we planned so we had only a short time with the outgoing tide. This was fortunate in one way as with a 20k easterly breeze the waves were really standing up. While the seas got better with the incoming tide, our speed over ground suffered and we realised we weren't going to make Pancake Creek before the sun went down. We ducked into Gatcombe Head but decided it was too exposed and tight with 2 other yachts already anchored.

We went with the tide to Turkey Beach in the Rodd Peninsula for the night. The anchorage was good but rain in the morning stopped us going ashore to look around.

Monday 20 September, Turkey Beach to Pancake Creek

The good weather ended today with rain and squalls for the short trip to Pancake Creek. Another school mackeral on the line meant fresh fish again tonight. We anchored in the mouth and moved further into the creek when the tide came in later in the day.

Tuesday, 21 September to Friday 24 September, Pancake Creek

Only our second period of prolonged rain in 4 months and Pancake Creek is a nice place to sit. We dragged our anchor for the first time in this trip so moved further up the creek and reset the anchor. 21 boats here at one stage.

Highlight was kayaking around to Jenny Lind Creek. This was a 3 hour round trip and needs to be done right on high tide. You go up Chinaman's Creek and take the first branch to port after the power poles. You follow that and cross the salt pan to enter a stream that takes you into Jenny Lind Creek.

It wasn't easy to find but when we climbed a sandhill on the eastern shore the views were worth the effort.

We didn't have time to climb to the lighthouse but the track from the mouth is good and it is definitely on our list of things to do next trip. It looks much easier than the trek from the anchorage through the bush.

Someone suggested tying a ribbon to the mangroves so you can find your way home again as it can get confusing. The stream home is shown in the centre of the picture at right. It is not so easy to pick in the panned out picture below. We would mark the salt pan exit next time as we got a bit disorientated here going home.

Trolling lures

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A number of people have asked about the lures we are having success with this trip. We have tried a lot since we have had Next Phase. We started with the good ol' spoons and tried them for 1500 nm on our last trip with only 1 Mac Tuna to show for our efforts. We used to lose a lot of lures probably due to the spinning action of these lures causing trace wire breakage.

We then tried a range of different types until getting some good advice from the Cannonvale fishing tackle shop where we bought a Halco Trembler that caught our first mackeral. No photos as unfortunately we lost the lure going into Pancake Creek. He also recommended much heavier wire trace (120 lb) and swivels (400lb) to help prevent the lost lures. He also said as soon as there is the smallest kink in the wire to replace it. We bought a small lure as we don't really want to catch massive fish. We are cautious about ciguatera poisoning and also the freezer on the boat is just not big enough.

The lures that were recommended to us in Mackay were Halco Laser Pro 190DD. They are much bigger than we had been using but we have now had 2 mackeral and 2 tuna on these lures at right in the last 500 miles. They go deeper which is better for mackeral apparently and are designed to work at speeds of 5 to 9 knots which is ideal. You can buy these lures at lots of places including Big W (about $19).

PS Hi Warwick, We use venetian blind cord with a bike tube or plumbing gasket for shock absorption around the stern cleats (it's stored on a hand reel). Even the 1.2m tuna Warren caught he just pulled in by hand. We look forward to catching up with you and Ruth after you get your boat.

Yellowpatch

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Monday 13 September, Great Keppel to Yellowpatch

The great weather continues so we have to motor sail the 30nm to Yellowpatch on Curtis Island. We run on one motor which conserves fuel and lets us maintain a good trolling speed of around 5 knots. More success with the new lures sees a nice school mackeral on board (no blood on the deck Shawn!) as we approach the anchorage.

Lois and I bought the lures in Mackay after getting advice from a gentleman called Steve Palmer who saw us looking confused at all the options in Big W. It was a lucky meeting as it turns out he makes fishing DVDs and shows.

Tuesday 14 September to Friday 17 September, Yellowpatch

On our 2 stays at Cape Capricorn in the past we have looked longingly at Yellowpatch and promised to spend time here when we had more time. It is a beautiful spot with it's orange sand hill and clear waters.

After catching 4 sand crabs the first day, I thought I would never get Warren to leave. It took him a bit longer to find the fish but a 30cm whiting had him smiling.

Steve and Denise (One More) spent a night here and it was good to catch up. They were off to Lady Musgrave Island while the weather was good.

Saturday 18 September, Yellowpatch to Gladstone

We sail and motorsail the 32nm to Gladstone, entering the harbour through the North Entrance at low tide. No problems although we were concerned when we saw a trawler aground near Farmer Reef.

Gladstone Marina has been great. Staff are very friendly, the facilities are good, and it is the cheapest to date. Only negative has been the magpies that attacked relentlessly on our way to the shops.

Great Keppel Island

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Tuesday 7 September to Sunday 12 September

We spent a relaxing 6 days at Great Keppel Island alternating between Second Beach (top photo) and Fisherman's Beach depending on the wind direction. The water is as clear as anywhere we have been on the trip so far.

Fisherman's Beach is where most of the development is found although with the resort currently closed things are pretty quiet at the moment.

We spent one day circumnavigating the island and revisited Butterfish Bay where we camped for a week 30+ years ago when we were just married. We also kayaked up Leeke's Creek where we had stayed with our boys on our trailer sailer when they were young.

We also caught up with Ralph and Trish (Shadow Image) and also Bob and Julia (Kinta) who we met 2 years ago at Wathumba Creek on Fraser Island.

South to Yeppoon

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Saturday 4 September, Hunter Island to Island Head Creek

With a forecast of NE 15 - 20 knots for the next 2 days we decide to head south towards Yeppoon. We left Hunter about midday hoping to get a nice spinnaker run to Island Head Creek. Unfortuately the breeze stayed around 7 knots and we were forced to motor sail to make headway against the 3.5 knots of tide! The whales were everywhere and we were glad of the engines running which alerted them to our presence. We entered Island Head Creek on dark following our GPS track from the trip north.

Sunday 5 September, Island Head Creek to Yeppoon

The forecast 15-20 knot NE did not come in until lunchtime so more motorsailing as we had about 60 nm to cover today. We finally got the spinnaker set after lunch and headed towards Great Keppel Island. The breeze freshened as we approached the island and with a 20kn N to be followed by a 20kn S change during the night we opted to go into Rosslyn Bay for the night as there are no all weather anchorages on the island.

Highlight of the day was the Yellowfin Tuna that Warren caught south of Cape Manifold. We decided it was too big to keep so we released it after removing the lure.

Rain on Monday meant we stayed 2 nights at the marina and Lois and Kel headed home after helping us with the reprovisioning. We certainly enjoyed their company over the last 10 days - even if Kel could only laugh at the irony of releasing the biggest fish we have ever caught!

Middle Percy and Hunter Islands

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Thursday 2 September, Curlew to Middle Percy Island

Light SE breeze on the nose saw us motoring or motor sailing to Middle Percy Island. On the way into the anchorage we encountered a whale heading out - definitely our closest encounter yet.

Middle Percy is a must see place for yachties with an A frame hut and small shed filled with items from yachts that have visited the island since the 1950s.

Some are as simple as the yacht name written on a coconut with a felt pen while others are intricately engraved or painted woodwork.

We opted for a yellow flag which we hope will help us find it again when next we visit here. Not as unique as the artificial leg left by one crew!

Friday 3 September, Middle Percy to Hunter Island

We had never visited the Duke Islands so headed south in another nice easterly. I must say I was a bit disappointed with Hunter Island as we had heard such rave reports about it. There is a pastoral lease over the island and it is cleared with long grass and no sign of cattle. There are some nice beaches, a few fish and we had the anchorage, which was very protected, to ourselves.

Scawfell and Curlew Islands

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Monday 30 August, Mackay to Scawfell Island

With a strong SE still blowing we decided to reach across to Scawfell Island rather than try to bash south. We anchored the first night in the western arm of the bay and moved to the eastern arm for the second night where there was less swell.

Lois and Kel snorkelled on the reef and were surprised to find large clams here. Quite a few racing yachts stayed here on their way home from Hamilton Island Race Week.

Wednesday 1 September, Scawfell to Curlew Island

The extra night at Scawfell meant we had an easterly breeze for the 49 nm to Curlew. The trip was relieved by a pod of dolphins bow riding but no whale sightings. Lois and Kel's disappointmnet at this was short lived as we had a pod of whales breaching in the distance just after we anchored. Very impressive they were.

Port Newry and Brampton Island

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Wednesday 25 August, Goldsmith Island to Port Newry

We reached across the 17nm to Port Newry and anchored on the western side of Outer Newry Island. We had the bay to ourselves for 2 nights and it was wonderfully protected after our rolly stay at Goldsmith.

We walked across to the eastern side of the island which is strewn with large and small boulders.

We later took the dinghy over to Newry Island to see what remains of the resort that was built here in the 1930s. It is a beautiful grassy area maintained by the Seaforth Historical Society and National Parks.

The bar and tables of the old Beachcomber bar that was popular with yachties has been kept together with the remains of many old stone buildings.

The stones we had seen on the eastern side of Outer Newry Island had been put to good use as building materials.

Friday 27 August, Port Newry to Brampton Island

Another good reach back to Brampton Island so we hopefully will have a better angle of sail to Mackay tomorrow. We climbed to the top of the island for some spectacular views.

Saturday 28 August, Brampton Island to Mackay

A SSE breeze meant we had to tack to Mackay arriving just before the tall ship Young Endeavour and our friends Lois and Kel who are joining us for a week or so. They will travel with us down to Yeppoon where they have left their car. As they had hired a car to get to Mackay we were able to visit town to restock the supplies. Very windy so we stayed Sunday here also.

South to Goldsmith Island

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Thursday 18 August, Stonehaven to Airlie Beach

We had booked 2 nights at Abel Point marina so I could get a desperately needed hair cut and colour and so we could catch up with Alan and Kat (Talisker) and Jim and Diane (Chilli Cat) for dinner. Of course we also needed to vote. This was on top of the usual shopping, washing, cleaning etc. It was very hot and we had a swim at the lagoon in Airlie and checked out the new Port of Airlie marina development which is nearing completion.

Saturday 21 August, Airlie Beach to Long Island

Our plans to get to Thomas or Shaw Island were waylaid by the light south easterly and the spectacle of the passing Hamilton Island Race Week fleet. Above is the 50m superyacht Perseus who hadn't caught up with the news that Julia had taken over from Kevin (look closely at the MPS). I thought advertising was banned on election day!

We also saw Lulu whose charterers we had met at Stonehaven. We had offered to take some photos of their boat as they had commented on how hard it is to get any under sail. They gave us a CD of jazz (Gazjaz) that one of them had recorded however motored off that day so no sailing photos. We were pleased to see them today however and we emailed them some of Lulu going past. We enjoyed the CD which will remind us of this holiday.

Sunday 22 August, Long Island to Shaw Island

SE winds again so we decided that Burning Point on Shaw Island looked good after 5 hours tacking. Saw lots of whales.

Monday 23 August, Shaw Island to Goldsmith Island

Very light SE breeze early so we motored down to Goldsmith Island where we spent 2 nights. The anchorage was very rolly as a NE sea breeze came in during the afternoon. Next to no wind Tuesday so we decided to stay another night only to have a swell again come in after dark. 2 whales surfaced close to the boat on the way down and the smaller one breeched 100m away. Later 2 cruised by the anchorage going down the passage between Goldsmith and Locksmith Islands.

Back to the Whitsundays

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Sunday 15 August, Bona Bay to Double Bay East

Another beautiful though windless day as you can see from the photo of Gloucester Passage. We revert to motoring with one outboard while trolling, in the hope of another fish. We do about 5 knots this way which saves fuel and is a good trolling speed although the fish are elusive again.

Monday 18 August, Double Bay East to Stonehaven

We motored to Airlie Beach in the morning to check out the Bareboat Show as part of Airlie Beach Race Week. A fashion parade and lots of boats to look at filled in a few hours before we had our first good sail in a week to Stonehaven.

Tuesday 19 August, Bait Reef

The calm weather of the previous week prompted us to sail out to Bait Reef today. This is about 16nm NE of Hayman Island and is the closest outer reef to the Whitsundays. The forecast of 10-15 SE sounds good so we head off at 7 to be there about an hour before low tide at 11. Low tide is the best time for snorkelling and when the reef offers protection from the swell. 3 more whales sighted as we left The Narrows between Hayman and Hook Islands. We slowed for a while then had to keep moving. Unfortunately when we were about a mile away the whales started breaching and tail slapping. Even at this distance the splashes were spectacular.

We arrived at Bait Reef, negotiated the entrance and took up a mooring. We were lucky that a yacht was leaving as we arrived which helped confirm the correct path. The snorkeling was good although as the breeze was more like 15 - 20 knots there was some sediment in the water. Warren snorkelled around the Stepping Stones which are a set of coral pinnacles rising from a depth of 15 - 25 metres which you can see in the photo above. I kept watch in the tender and contented myself with the sights in shallower water.

Another good reach saw us moored back at Stonehaven by 4.30. It was any easy day sail there and back and with 4 hours at the reef it was well worth the trip.

We decided to spend today, Wednesday at Stonehaven to go for a kayak, finish my book and catch up on the blog. Luckily there were spare moorings all day and we didn't need to move. I am enjoying the Kobo eReader and about to finish all 117 chapters of The Count of Monte Cristo. A Russian yachty I met at Townsville marina recommended I read Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky next. He (the yachty not Fyodor) had spent 8 years circumnavigating in his 49 foot yacht. The interesting people you meet while doing the laundry!

Gloucester Island

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Thursday 12 August, Bowen to Sinclair Bay

We left early in the hope of catching another mackeral off the Don River but had to satisfy ourselves with seeing more whales on the way to Sinclair Bay (south of Montes resort).

Friday 13 August, Sinclair Bay to Bona Bay

Another beautiful sandy beach and calm anchorage although with the light winds of the last few days I am sure we could anchor just about anywhere.

We were pleased to see Celebration from the RQ cruising group also anchored here. We had sundowners ashore with them and a couple of locals on Saturday night.

Warren got a few whiting but couldn't land the large fish (mackeral??) chasing the bait fish in the bay.

PS. I have just read the comment on the last post and my apologies for getting a bit behind. Believe it or not it is hard sometimes to find the time to do the blog (and to have coverage with Optus)- but it is nice to know some people are reading it!

Continuing south

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Saturday 7 August, Orpheus Island to Magnetic Island

We decided to go ashore and look for the ruins of an old sheperd's cottage behind the beach and walk to the top of the ridge which has views over the coast to the east.

The walk is marked by a trail of ribbons tied to trees and is fairly easy to follow. It does pass through quite thick grass towards the end that had us worried about encountering more snakes. The view from the top was again worth the effort.

After the walk we headed off in an ESE breeze so we tacked in close to the islands (Fantome and Great Palm) to keep out of the swell as much as possible. This resulted in our first mackeral of the trip which was large enough to keep. We enjoyed it for dinner in Horseshoe Bay after arriving at 7pm after 52nm on the wind. It tasted great!

Sunday 8 August, Magnetic Island to Townsville

We cut short our visit to Magnetic Island as the forecast is for ENE breezes over the next few days which would help our passage south. We headed to the Breakwater marina for a pitstop for fuel, water and supplies. The scene at the fuel jetty was interesting.

Monday 9 August, Townsville to Cape Upstart

We headed off at 0700 for what was to be our longest day of the trip so far - 83nm. The breeze started in the SE before dying and then finally coming in from the ENE. This gave us a nice reach to finish the day anchoring at 9pm. Highlight was sighting 2 whales inside Cape Bowling Green. We had the music blasting as we reached at 8knots in the dark, hoping the whales would keep out of our way!

Tuesday 10 August, Cape Upstart to Bowen

The NE breeze was again light so we motor sailed much of the day to anchor in Queen's Bay, on the northern side of Bowen. A strong SW change was predicted and this anchorage proved to be well protected when the change came through at 11pm. We spent Wednesday here as well. Glorious sunset!

Zoe Bay

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Friday 6 August, Gayundah Creek to Orpheus Island

We motored out of the Hinchenbrook channel at 1030 in next to no breeze and decided the conditions were good to visit Zoe Bay on the eastern side of the island. This is not a very good anchorage and we had resigned ourselves to maybe not getting there this trip due to the weather. The breeze picked up on the way (8nm from the Lucinda jetty) and we anchored (after 3 attempts) in a very rolly bay in 15 knots of SE breeze. There was no one else anchored or at the campsite.

The bay is beautiful and we went ashore to walk to the waterfall. It was clear with plenty of water after the recent rains.

We continued up the track to the head of the falls via a good track that included a rope climb in one steeper part.

The view from the top was spectacular. We ate lunch next to the rock pools - definitely our best lunch spot yet. I'm afraid the pictures don't do the view justice.

After leaving Zoe Bay, we had a good sail to Orpheus Island where we picked up a mooring for the night.

Hinchenbrook revisited

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Tuesday 3 August to Thursday 5 August, Macushla, No. 7 Creek and Gayundah Creek

The sunny weather allowed us to appreciate the beauty of Hinchenbrook with it's wide, deep creeks and spectacular mountains. We anchored for a few hours at Macushla in Missionary Bay and walked the track to North Shepherd Bay. This took a couple of hours but the resulting views of the beach were worth the walk.

From here we made our way up No. 6 Creek and then across to No. 7 Creek (very imaginative naming up this way). We spent 2 nights here giving the fishing a go (a couple of big bream but not much else) and another walk along a boardwalk to Ramsay Bay. National Parks have a lot of facilities on Hinchenbrook for boaties and campers.

Thursday we motored around to Gayundah Creek where Warren was hoping to get some crabs. He wasn't disappointed catching 2 sandies and 1 big muddy to go with a big bream for dinner. Unfortuantely the muddy was empty!

Warren also caught 2 hammerhead sharks here which we released when we realised they weren't the big fish he has been waiting for. We heard the noise of crocs at night so this is definitely not the place to swim.

Homeward bound

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Saturday 31 July, Dunk Island to Goold Island

The trip home began in light SE winds and we tacked down to Goold Island. Nice anchorage – no fish but a beautiful sunset.

Sunday 1 August, Goold Island to Port Hinchenbrook Marina

We motored the 10 miles to the marina and entered at about half tide and had a minimum depth of 1.2m.

We met Marie (from my work) her fiancé Rob and Rob’s mum Janis for lunch. It was great to catch up with them, hear all their news and share our trip so far.

Monday 2 August, Port Hinchenbrook to Garden Island

We left after lunch and a swim in the marina complex pool. This was appreciated as we were very hot after riding our bikes the 4 kms into Cardwell to collect mail and do our shopping. Garden Island is small but picturesque and popular with the locals.

A dream realised

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Saturday 24 July, Townsville to Orpheus Island
We had a good run up to Orpheus Island in a 15 to 20 knot ESE breeze arriving there at 5pm where we picked up a mooring. We passed a number of islands including Rattlesnake Island where the RAAF practise their bombing. We had made sure there was nothing happening today before we left.

We also passed Fantome Island which was the site of a leprosarium. One of our friends and neighbour, Peter Ludlow, has written a very interesting book on the history of Peel Island that mentions the aboriginal patients being transferred to Fantome. A fire destroyed much of what was left on the island.

Sunday 25 July, Orpheus Island to Hinchinbrook Island

We have been looking forward to getting to Hinchinbrook after hearing of the spectacular beauty of the passage. Unfortunately it was raining as we entered the channel and we could see very little.

We sailed up to Haycock Island were we spent 3 nights in the worst weather of the trip (lots of rain). Good reading and a couple of DVDs helped pass the time. A highlight was catching up with Jackie and Steve off Free Spirit who were also here. Steve related the story of getting a fish hook in his foot on the way up. Unfortunately the hook was still attached to a 4 foot mackeral at the time (Ouch!!!). They ended up getting medical assistance at Palm Island to remove the hook and he is recovering well.

Wednesday 28 July, Haycock Island to Dunk Island

We decided to head further north today in the hope of escaping the rain. We motored initially to charge the batteries and so we could check out Gayundah Creek. We saw another Seawind here from Townsville (Boom 'n Bust) who said they had seen a croc swim by.

Once out of the channel we raised sails and by 1330 the spinnaker was up and the sun was out. We carried it all the way to Dunk where we anchored in Brammo Bay.
While we were waiting for our boat to be built, we had a few days at Dunk Island after one of our bike trips. We loved it and in 5 days put on the weight we had lost riding 550 kms in the previous week! While dining at the resort we would look out over the yachts moored in Brammo Bay and say that will be us one day. Well today was the day!

We spent 3 nights at Dunk. We hiked up Mt Kootooloo (280m) and had planned other bush walks until Warren nearly stepped on a rather large snake that crossed our path.

We got our exercise kayaking the next day. Hot showers on shore courtesy of National Parks were a treat.

Magnetic Island and Townsville

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Monday 19 July Cape Cleveland to Magnetic Island

With very little wind and a good forecast for the next few days we motored the 2 and a half hours to Magnetic Island. We anchored in Horseshoe Bay and went for a walk ashore. We were last here in the late 70's and while the units are much flasher, the place seems much the same. We were lucky to time our visit with the local cruisers Monday night BBQ on the beach. We had a great time and met lots of interesting and helpful cruising folk that we hope to see again in our travels.

Tuesday we accepted an invitation from Brian and Annette (Muscat 7 - Lightwave 38) to go around to 5 Beaches Bay for the day with a couple of other cruisers. This was a very relaxing day in perfect weather.

Wednesday 21 July Magnetic Island to Townsville

We were glad we had spent the time at Magnetic, but it was time to stock up in Townsville. Our 2 nights turned to 3 as we had a strong wind warning and a few unplanned jobs. We also had a few late (very late) nights following the Tour de France. Our bikes came in very handy as I visited friends at the TAFE one day and we went searching for to Bunnings and a bike shop on Friday (30k trip in the end). This was to get Warren's gears cleaned after the bike had an unplanned swim at Airlie!

We loved the Strand and the many old buildings around town. Overlooking the bay are many huge, spectacular houses. I thought my brother John, an architect in Hong Kong, would like this one. I wonder how deep the anchors of those supports need to be for this to survive a cyclone!

North to new cruising grounds

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Wednesday 14 July, Airlie Beach to Double Bay
After stocking up at the Cannonvale Coles, I visited the local campus of BRIT to catch up with Natalie while Warren got a haircut. We also found a great fishing shop at Cannonvale where we got some new gear and advice so we are looking forward to finally catching a mackeral.

We started our trek north into …..you guessed it – a northerly. So we motored the 10 nm to Double Bay East. Unfortunately we had no phone signal so I missed the estimates broadcast for DET. As you can imagine I was very disappointed. Stayed the night and caught several good sized bream. Only 2 other boats here which was nice after the crowded anchorages around most of the Whitsundays.

Thursday 15 July, Double Bay to Cape Gloucester

Another short but this time fast sail to Cape Gloucester in a fresh SE breeze. We anchored off the Eco resort and went for a walk along the beach to Monte’s resort. Both pretty low key but very popular it seems with the fishermen. We had a relaxing 2 nights here. The anchorage was good but got a bit rolly in the mornings with a SW (reminded me a bit of a night at the Sandhills in this regard).

I started a new book on my Kobo ereader that Ben got for me at Borders. It has 100 free classics and I am working my way through them. So far it is good – the battery lasts about 2 weeks, 5000 page turns, and it is easy on the eyes. You can adjust the print size and it bookmarks where you are up to. I’m reading Jane Austen’s Emma at the moment as I recently read the novel The Jane Austen Book Club.

Saturday 17 July, Cape Gloucester to Cape Upstart
Sailed the 52 nm to Cape Upstart along with a couple of other boats from Cape Gloucester. This was another good anchorage and although it is a national park there are about 300 houses. The land was sold before it was declared a park and you can only get here by boat. While we didn’t go ashore, some looked a lot bigger than beach shacks.

Sunday 18 July, Cape Upstart to Cape Cleveland

Another long day, 64 nm, the highlight of which was when 3 whales surfaced 50 metres off our port side. They were accompanied by a few dolphins who I like to imagine were making sure the whales didn’t get any closer. They did a few tail slaps and pectoral fin waves before disappearing south. No time to get the camera unfortunately. Another good anchorage and with a good forecast for the next few days which will deteriorate as the week progresses, we decide to go to Magnetic Island instead of Townsville while the weather is good.

Ben's Excellent Adventure - Part 2

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Thursday 8 July to Monday 12 July

The second half of Ben's time with us was a bit windier and so we headed over to Luncheon Bay and then a mooring in Butterfly Bay for the night. We have settled in to a nice routine of early nights (except when we play cards) and late starts. Ben is enjoying the change of pace and particularly the sunshine! From here we headed to Nara Inlet and walked up to see the rock art of the Ngaro people.

After a quiet night at Nara we went to Cid Harbour for the Ben's final 2 nights with us. I was keen to climb Whitsunday Peak - a challenging walk that took 2 and a half hours in total. We had heard there were 967 stone steps to negotiate and as we headed off and it is straight into the steps. Our heart rates rose rapidly, and having read the National Parks sign that said to allow 4 hours, I checked my watch to find we had been going 8 minutes! I decided not to count the steps and instead concentrate on the beautiful surroundings.

The view from the top was spectacular even with only moderate visability.

Monday we dropped Ben at Hamilton Island for the flight back to Melbourne while we headed back to Airlie to reprovision for our trip North to Hinchinbrook. The P&O liner Pacific Dawn greeted us as we rounded Pioneer Rocks on the way to Airlie Beach.

Ben's Excellent Adventure - Part 1

2010-07-08T08:11:00.005+10:00

Saturday 3 July to Wednesday 7 July
Ben arrived Saturday and we spent the night at Hamilton Island Marina. It is very windy, quite cool and isolated showers - not the weather Ben was looking for I'm afraid. Sunday we head to Gulnare Inlet on Whitsunday Island. It is quite shallow at the entrance however plenty of room inside and seems to have a lot of cruising yachts and few charterers. One fish for Warren and Ben and I happy to read in the overcast conditions.

The forecast is better for Monday, so we head around to Whitehaven Beach. The sun is out by lunchtime and we have 2 great days and nights here with walks on the beach, kayaking and relaxing in general.

On Wednesday we motored to Hill Inlet to climb up to the lookout for the view over the full stretch of beach. It's nice to see the variety of butterflys on every island.

On our way to Blue Pearl Bay to do some snorkelling, we saw a whale on the NE corner of Hook Island. We slowed down and saw 4 in total.

Low tide at Blue Pearl Bay gave us a close look at the reef and the fish. As we had a mooring we decided to spend the night here.

Whitsunday Cruising

2010-07-02T11:41:00.007+10:00

Saturday 26 June to Friday 2 July

After purchasing fuel, ice and supplies, topping up the water and doing the washing we headed off from Hamilton Island Marina for Whitehaven Beach under blue skis and a gentle breeze – where was this weather last week! After the 2 weeks on the go to get to the Whitsundays and then the non-stop action of the rally, it was nice to put down the anchor with no real plans for the next week.

We sailed or motored from Whitehaven to Hill Inlet, Tongue Bay, Macona Inlet (see pic), Butterfly Bay, Blue Pearl Bay and Stonehaven. We fished (2 keepers only), crabbed in Hill Inlet (no luck but we did find an anchor chain and line), kayaked, collected oysters and snorkelled. Life is tough in the Whitsundays. We saw lots of charter boats (big, small and massive), some cruisers and another Navy patrol boat (HMAS Bundaberg).

We saw turtles, dolphins and schools of brightly coloured reef fish while snorkelling at Blue Pearl Bay. Note the spectacular rock faces on the cliffs on the North side of Hayman Island.

We read, watched Patton (again although Warren says it is the first time this century!) and slept at least 8 hours a night. Altogether a great week and we are really starting to get into cruising mode. Our eldest son, Ben, joins us tomorrow for 9 days so we are looking forward to showing him the best of the Whitsundays. The weather has been great all week although it is windier today 15 – 20 knots and gusts up to 25 and more is predicted for tomorrow. Ben is hoping for warm weather after a cold spell in Melbourne.

We are currently anchored off the VMR ramp at Airlie Beach to stock up at Coles for the coming week. It is a short walk from here which is just as well as we probably will need several trips.

Seawind Rally - Part 2

2010-07-01T14:44:00.010+10:00

Tuesday 22 June, Cid Harbour to Hamilton
With the breeze still sitting in the 20 to 30 knot range we were glad of the short course today to Hamilton Island. As it was all on the wind, we still ended up taking over 3 hours and covering 20 nautical miles. Tonight was a cocktail party and trivia night at the new yacht club which is very impressive.

Wednesday 23 June, Hamilton to Cid Harbour
The beach party at Whitehaven had to be moved to Dugong beach at Cid Harbour today. We all had a great blast downwind and we finished a close second to One More. The BBQ on the beach was followed by sand modelling which was won by the artistic Leaper crew. Unfortunately our sand modelling skills were in line with our trivia skills!

Thursday 24 June, Cid Harbour to Nara Inlet

One More had spent last night at Macona Inlet and proudly showed off their catch before the start (3 Spangled Emperor). The breeze was not quite as strong as the last few days and Brent added a loop around North Molle Island before heading to the shelter of Nara Inlet.

The 20 Seawinds were quite a sight although it didn’t stop Solway Lass getting up close and personal.

Friday 25 June, Nara Inlet to Hamilton Island
While the breeze eased today, we had rain showers to add to the mix. The breeze started off 15 – 20, eased to nothing in the middle and then finished at 15 – 20.
The final night’s mystery dinner was at the golf club on Dent Island. We were ferried over and met on the red carpet by the Channel Whitsunday cameras and Brent looking very smart in his tux.

The venue was great, food good and entertainment had everyone up dancing. There was a fancy dress theme of "celebrities" and some crews really got into the spirit.
The effort of the XTSea crew from Gilligan's Island helped them secure overall rally winner.

The crew from One More made a great effort also.

Talisker won the coverted “Horns” for his consistency at the front of the fleet.

We would like to thank Brent and Renee for organising another great week – the weather caused a few changes to their plans but they were flexible and delivered a good time despite the challenges.

Seawind Rally - Part 1

2010-06-23T08:06:00.004+10:00

Saturday 19 June, Cid Harbour to Airlie Beach
Time to meet the other 19 boats participating in this year's Seawind Whitsundays Rally. Abel Point marina is host and the new facilities are much improved on those we experienced 2 years ago. It is closer to the shops for groceries and we had nice wide berths.

Tonight there was a skippers briefing followed by a meet the fleet party. Some owners have sailed their boats from home (Lake Macquarie, Brisbane, Yeppoon, Sydney) while others are using charter boats (their own or hired).

Sunday 20 June, Airlie Beach to Long Island

SE 20 - 25 knots. Gate start off Airlie than a reach to Pioneer Rocks. It was then on the wind all the way to Happy Bay. Peer Pressure had a great start and sailed well to win the race and earn the honour of wearing the "Viking horns" the first time. Well done, Len, Isla and Lee. We had a good start but went the wrong way and finished in the middle of the fleet.

Hawaiian Cocktail party followed by karaoke at the resort was great fun. The Seaquence crew of Megan and Kelly were a hit with YMCA that had everyone up on the floor and the Dream On crew again showed their unique style.

Monday 21 June, Long Island to Cid Harbour
Strong Wind Warning SE 20 - 30 knots. The forecast forced Seawing organiser Brent to move to plan C for today's sail. A beat to the planned stop at Lindeman was quickly canned, likewise South Molle Island so after a fleet vote it was settled on a quick reach across the channel to the very protected anchorage of Cid Harbour.

This race was started on the beach Le Mans style - the crew has to get out to the boat, off the mooring or anchor and get their sails up as quickly as possible. Tallisker had a great start and lead for most of the race until becalmed behind Cid Island and watched in dismay as Peer Pressure again took line honours and "the horns". Seaquence won the skippers hat for the overall rally leader at that point (helped by Next Phase support during karaoke I might add!)

South Percy to the Whitsundays

2010-06-22T16:26:00.005+10:00

Thursday 17 June, South Percy Island to Scawfell Island
The day didn’t start well with Peer Pressure finding their anchor chain wrapped around a coral bombie. Several anxious moments for Len as he pictured having to take to the chain with his bolt cutters so early in their cruise. They eventually unwound themselves and we all headed off in a very pleasant ESE breeze of 10 to 15 knots. Peer Pressure and Next Phase set spinnakers while One More had a motor ticking over as we needed to make good time to cover the 68 miles to Scawfell before dark. After the excitement of the last few days it was nice to relax.

The breeze died after lunch and we dropped the kite and started the motors. We were then joined by 6 dolphins who delighted us with a display of precision bow riding and acrobatics. Very special as we sat in the bow seats of our Seawind and enjoyed the show. I really think they were pleased to entertain us! So Quinn, we have seen dugongs, turtles, dolphins and whales but happily no sharks or crocs.

The breeze freshened again about half an hour later and the spinnaker was up for a quick finish to the day. The only issue was avoiding a rather large ship en route to Mackay that the AIS picked up on a collision course. A course alteration was required to ensure we passed well astern of it. It was off to join the other 57 ships anchored off Mackay.

We arrived at Refuge Bay on dusk with just enough light to appreciate the pine trees and rocks to the waterline of Scawfell Island so characteristic of the Whitsunday Islands.

Friday 18 June, Scawfell Island to Cid Harbour

Southerly of 10 to 15 knots sees the spinnakers up again for the final leg to the Whitsundays. One More made an early start as they wanted to get to Airlie Beach to meet some family members while we left at 6:30. This is a very beautiful part of the coastline with many islands that we hope to explore on the trip south. Saw a navy patrol boat heading south.

The breeze died again around lunchtime so we motored up the Whitsunday Passage to Cid Harbour. The forecast is that the glassy conditions will not last! We saw several more Seawinds including Hadja (1160) who are also participating in the rally.

Yeppoon to South Percy Island

2010-06-21T08:08:00.009+10:00

Sunday 13 June, Rosslyn Bay to Port Clinton
Another 6am start in a 10 – 15 knot southerly. We set the spinnaker at 8:15 and this gave us a smoother sail in the confused seas. We dropped it before we gybed to port to head towards Port Clinton where we anchored in the South Arm. We sailed on our anchor for quite a while until the tide changed. Movie night tonight. Warren has been collecting DVDs in anticipation of the trip. The TV with DVD combined uses a bit of power but it does stop us going to bed at 8:30 which is becoming a bit of a habit.

Monday 14 June, Port Clinton to Island Head Creek
There is a strong wind warning current for this region and winds of 20 – 30 knots forecast and 3m seas with a 1.5 to 2m swell. We head off at 6:45 to see what the conditions are like with South Percy as our planned destination. We had discussed with Peer Pressure the possibility of going to Island Head Creek if conditions were as forecast. We had 2 reefs in the main and even with this reduced sail area we were surfing down the swells.

We saw a log speed of 15.7kn (18.2 on the GPS). While exhilarating, discretion dictated we pull in to Island Head Creek before we did any damage. I am sure the boat could handle the trip to the Percys – it is usually the crew that is the problem. The early mark meant Warren could do some fishing and got a bream and rock cod for dinner.

Tuesday 15 June, Island Head Creek
Still a strong wind warning, 20-30 knot south easterlies and now we add rain to the mix. It wasn’t a hard decision to decide to spend the day here. Warren did a few jobs and I started a new book that I can’t put down. With the overcast conditions we have had to run the generator for about an hour and a half yesterday and today. Tomorrow the wind is forecast to ease during the day and we hope to continue our trip to the Percys.

Wednesday 16 June, Island Head Creek to South Percy Island
We leave at 7:10 hoping the conditions are easing as predicted. Wind is a steady 20-25 with gusts up to 30 as forecast. Peer Pressure and One More follow us out and we all settle down for the trip to the Percys. Seas are big and very confused again.

It is hard to get a photo that depicts the size. The wave behind Warren in the first photo is big but doesn't look it in this photo. The second photo gives a better idea of the wave size. The masts of Peer Pressure and One More are visible behind us in this shot. Double reef again and while we make good time it is not as exciting as Monday ……… for most of the trip. One More saw a whale cross their stern close by. So now as well as watching the waves and the wind gusts, we had the added concern of a whale appearing at any time. I am not sure what we could do if we were surfing down a swell when it happened. Luckily the whales seem smart enough to keep out of our way.

As we approached South Percy along its eastern shore we find the seas getting bigger, more on the beam and cresting occasionally. I had one heart in mouth moment when a wave broke on the beam sending water into the cockpit and sending the esky sliding across the saloon. I for one was glad to drop the anchor at South Percy. Looks nice but we don’t go ashore. I am getting to the end of this book!

Bundaberg to Yeppoon

2010-06-19T10:20:00.016+10:00

Tuesday 8 June, Bundaberg to Pancake Creek

If we thought the sail yesterday to Bundaberg was good, then today’s was sensational. We motored out of the marina at 6 in a light SW breeze which had built to 10-15 knots from the south by 7. We raised the spinnaker, with Len and Isla close behind and spent the next 7 and a half hours tacking downwind crossing gybes with Peer Pressure in a steady 15 – 20 knots (we weren’t racing of course but Peer Pressure won!).

We averaged 8 knots under the spinnaker with longs runs at 10-11 knots. We anchored in Pancake Creek at 3.30pm in the inner anchorage. I think we were all asleep by 8.30 and were looking forward to a day off on Wednesday.

Wednesday 9 June, Pancake Creek
We had a leisurely start to the day before we gave the fishing a try. Len has never been a fisherman so had a neighbour’s help to put together the gear he needed. Warren gave him a lesson in pumping yabbies and off we all went. We got a couple of whiting and a sweetlip and then went to check on Len who was fishing from his boat (perhaps better described as his line was in the water and Len was on the boat). As we were discussing the vagaries of fishing, I noticed a tug on his line. Len jumped to it and promptly pulled in a good sized tusk fish followed by another even bigger. This success put paid to our plan to walk to the lighthouse on Bustard Head. The track is very overgrown and we decided to leave that for another visit.

Several calls to Optus and we are promised it will all by fixed by Saturday. Didn’t I hear that last week (and the week before!)

Thursday 10 June, Pancake Creek to Cape Capricorn
This was the first real test of the AIS with a lot of ships anchored off Gladstone and a number going in and out. Note all the ships at anchor and Peer Pressure close behind Next Phase.

The wind was up and down a bit today and we had to motor for the last couple of hours to get to Cape Capricorn about 3pm. We climbed to the lighthouse just in time to see a spectacular sunset. We came across a very shy echidna that did a good impression of a spiky plant as we went past.

My mum told me about the steak and kidney pies in the photo. The brand is Fray Bentos and they come in a tin and don’t need refrigeration. Available at Coles and Woolies and good back up and very tasty. Now I sound like my brother John who, when travelling around Europe after uni, used to send us letters mosting filled with descriptions or drawings of the food he liked.

Friday 11 June, Cape Capricorn to Rosslyn Bay, Yeppoon
Our batteries have been worrying us for the last few days and we decided this morning to sail to Yeppoon to get them checked. We hired a car from the folk at Keppel Bay Marina and made the trip to Rocky. A new battery and $340 later we were back on the boat ready for the next 15 weeks of our trip. Peer Pressure motored into Yellow Patch at high tide with half a meter under the keel after just missing the entrance channel.

Saturday 12 June, Rosslyn Bay
Boat work day – washing, cleaning, shopping. You can’t escape these chores even on a boat. The marina has a courtesy car you can book for 2 hours to get to Yeppoon for shopping. This is the only marina I know that has this and it is a real treat. Peer Pressure arrived by 2 and we hit the shops to stock up on perishables. Octopuss (Seawind 1000) and One More (Seawind 1160) are in the marina as they are also heading north.

More calls to Optus (now they say next Tuesday or Wednesday). I really fail to see how they are staying in business – they haven’t got a clue what is going on.

Raby Bay to Bundaberg

2010-06-07T17:53:00.003+10:00

We finally got away at 1345 on Friday 4 June. We had a westerley breeze that got up over 25 knots soon after leaving. This gave us an opportunity to practise our reefing as we put in the second reef. Len and Isla were about an hour and a half behind. Breeze dropped out as we exited the bay so we started our motors to get to Mooloolaba by 10pm. Forecast for the Wide Bay Bar was looking a bit iffy (20-25 knots SW and 1.7 to 2.2m swell).

Saturday. We were up at 4.30 and on the way by 5.00. We had a SW 10-15 knots which died as we got to Double Island Point. Len and Isla saw the first whale of the trip here as we motored to Waypoint 1. The crossing was very good - very little wind and about 1.2 m swell. We motored on the Garry's Anchorage where we toasted our good luck with a rum and wine with Len and Isla. Lynne, the rum flask came in very handy.

Sunday. Sailed up to the northern end of the Straits and spent a very quiet night at Big Woody Island.

Monday. Off at 6.00 again for the sail to Bundy in perfect conditions. SW going around to SE, 15- 20 knots and we averaged 7 knots. No whales but 4 other cruisers also sailing north with us.

Optus still hasn't fixed our phone so this post is courtesy of Peer Pressure. I'll add some pics when we have our internet working.

4 June - Day 1 - Whitsundays and beyond 2010

2010-06-04T07:19:00.006+10:00

Day 1 of our trip and we have already had a change of plans. Actually it's day minus 1 as we had planned to leave tomorrow (Saturday). One of the interesting things about cruising is how much your life is ruled by the weather. At home our only concern is whether we need an umbrella or an extra jacket but weather rarely changes your plans totally. On the water, Huey (the wind God) makes many of our decisions. And today Huey is saying "Today is the day".

We have had a frantic last couple of days getting ready to leave in what looks like the best weather to cross the dreaded Wide Bay Bar tomorrow afternoon. We have been keeping a close watch on the various websites (including the surf at Coolum) and discussing daily with our friends Len and Isla who are making the trip alongside us in their Seawind Peer Pressure.

So we are off today. We are still waiting for Optus to sort out Warren's phone so we may not be able to give another update for a few days.

4-10 July 2008 Bundy to Brisbane

2008-07-16T20:56:00.011+10:00

With a SE-S wind predicted we decided to sail east across Hervey Bay to Wathumba Creek on the northern end of Fraser island. We anchored outside the creek the first night as it has a very shallow entrance. After checking it out on Saturday morning in the inflatable, we decided to enter on the high tide. We anchored in a small hole inside with 3 other cats but as the tide dropped it became clear we were going to sit on the bottom.

Sunday we left on the high tide and reached south to Moon Point before motoring to Yankee Jack Creek for the night. We listened with increasing interest to each weather forecast as we got closer to the Wide Bay Bar. Monday we motored to Garry's Anchorage and with a forecast of NE-NW and a decreasing swell for Tuesday, we decided this was the best time to cross. But Tuesday saw a SE 10-15 knots when we crossed with 1.5 to 2.0 m seas. The "mad mile" was aptly named but the bar was not breaking and although there were a couple of bigger sets, we crossed without incident and anchored at Double Island Point.

Wednesday's sail south to Mooloolaba gave our first whale encounters, 2 some distance away (one breaching and one slapping it's flipper) but the last surfaced only 50m in front. We quickly tacked and it swam alongside for quite a while before continuing it's trip north. We hand steered and kept a much more vigilant lookout after this. We anchored in the Mooloolah River with "Davoren".

Our final day's sail started in a strong SW that died by lunchtime. We motor sailed for a couple of hours before arriving at Raby Bay to the cheers of the awaiting crowd (Mum and Dad). Warren sounded the fog horn to signal the end of our trip and we tied up in our marina berth. Now the cleanup, return to work and planning for the next trip!

1-3 July 2008 Yeppoon to Bundaberg

2008-07-03T21:11:00.004+10:00

The weather has been very good the last 3 days with blue skies and light winds. This has lead to some motorsailing and motoring but is much better than the alternative of 20+ knot headwinds. We decided to pass through The Narrows - the shallow passage between Curtis Island and the mainland. The shallowest sections dry to about 2 m at low tide so it is important to work the tide.

As the higher tide is at night at the moment, we decided to travel this section on Tuesday night. We had met a Kiwi couple in Mackay who had done the night sail and they said they had no problems as the route is well marked. We motored from Yeppoon to Maria Inlet, anchored, had an early dinner and then started our trip down the Narrows at 1800 hrs. While a little stressful on a moonless night, we went through without incident and anchored in Graham Creek (left) about 2130 hrs.

An early start the next morning had us motorsailing through Gladstone harbour before the wind died and we then motored to Pancake Creek.

Today we sailed about halfway to Bundaberg before the wind died and we motorsailed to arrive at Bundaberg Port Marina at 1845 hrs. 72 nm in 12 hours! Tomorrow we start the final leg home through the Sandy Straits and the dreaded Wide Bay Bar. Suzanne, please check the Coolum Surf for me every morning! The wind is forecast to increase over the weekend so we plan to bide our time inside Fraser Island before we cross the bar. Life is tough sometimes!!

30 June 2008 – Port Clinton to Yeppoon

2008-07-01T09:49:00.004+10:00

E then S 10- 15 knots
South to Yeppoon today and with a predicted ESE breeze to go NE in the afternoon, we were looking forward to a reach and maybe even the chance of getting the spinnaker up. No such luck as the easterly left at 0900 to be replaced by a southerly. More tacking – although with blue skies and slight seas, it was good sail. We are now tied up at the Keppel Bay Marina getting ready for the next 350 or so miles south. If all goes to plan, the next update should be at the end of the week from Bundaberg.

29 June 2008 – Hexham to Port Clinton

2008-07-01T09:45:00.005+10:00

SE 15 – 20 knots, easing in the afternoon
Another 60 mile day to windward. Port Clinton is a huge harbour within the Shoalwater Bay Military Zone. The south arm of this area is the only anchorage open at the moment due to live firing exercises by the army. The picture was taken inside the harbour and shows 9 other yachts at the preferred anchorage. We had a very calm night and have put this on our list to revisit as there is a lot to explore.

27, 28 June 2008 Digby to Hexham Island

2008-07-01T09:42:00.003+10:00

SSE 15-20 knots
The winds are forecast to increase tomorrow so we decided to skip the Percy Islands and make straight for Hexham Island today. Although this means another long day, we do not need to move tomorrow if the winds are as strong as predicted. 62 miles to windward – what more can I say. Hexham is a good anchorage although a bit rolly and subject to bullets (large gusts of wind) that had us moving around on the anchor. We spent our day off fishing, reading and exploring. Warren’s fish cleaning attracted a couple of large sharks that had him deciding that the top of the back stairs was a better cleaning area. We kept all the fish scraps and disposed of them the next day well out to sea. Definitely no snorkelling at Hexham.

26 June 2008 – Mackay to Digby Island

2008-07-01T09:36:00.002+10:00

SSE 15–20 knots
The winds did ease a little, or so the weather bureau said, although as we bashed our way towards Digby Island it didn’t feel that way. The boat made good progress with a double reefed main although we took a lot of water over the topsides. Unfortunately 2 of our hatches are leaking and this has caused some issues for us to deal with when we get home. We arrived at Digby at 1600 hrs after covering 54 nautical miles to windward in about 9 hours. The anchorage was a bit rolly and stark. We were just happy to have stopped pounding!

25 June 2008 - Mackay

2008-06-25T21:30:00.001+10:00

SE 20 – 25 knots
Lois and Kel left this morning to fly back to Darwin and we decided to spend another night in the marina to prepare for the trip home and let the winds ease (we hope). Tomorrow will be a big day as the nearest anchorage is Digby Island (about 45 miles to the SE). No more updates until we get to Rosslyn Bay (Yeppoon) in a week or so.

24 June 2008 Keswick to Mackay

2008-06-25T21:29:00.002+10:00

SE 20 knots
After a rolly night at Keswick we motored past the large houses on the hill overlooking Egremont Passage. We are not sure what the attraction is but apparently there are plans to develop the island for 2000 people. Warren says they can have it – this was not his favourite anchorage. There was a BBQ at the marina tonight and we met quite a few interesting people – all heading north. They can’t understand why we would want to head south! Why are we again??

23 June 2008 Goldsmith to Keswick Island

2008-06-25T21:27:00.003+10:00

SE 15–25 knots
We decided to move on as we need to get closer to Mackay so headed off with a forecast of 15-20 knots. It didn’t take long for us to realise that we needed a couple of reefs in the main. It was hard going into the south easterly with a large swell. We decided to stop at Brampton for lunch to see if the wind and seas would abate with the change of the tide. Good protection and a pity we had to move on. We decided to head for Keswick Island over Scawfell Island as it is closer to Mackay.

21, 22 June 2008 - Goldsmith Island

2008-06-25T21:25:00.002+10:00

SE 20-30 knots
Our first visit to Goldsmith and it offers good protection from the strong winds in Roylen Bay. We spent 2 full days here reading, fishing (some bream and lots of lost gear to the sharks), exploring (more snakes) and relaxing. This is only the fourth time in 5 weeks that we have spent more than one night at an anchorage.

20 June 2008 - Thomas Is to Goldsmith Is

2008-06-25T21:21:00.002+10:00

Light SE breezes

Thomas Island is described as one of the best anchorages in the Whitsundays and it did not disappoint. We spent the morning exploring the beaches and hiked up a dry creek bed to try to get to the other side of the island.

Beautiful wildflowers but only a glimpse of the southern side. As the wind is predicted to increase tomorrow we decided to head to Goldsmith Island this afternoon instead of tomorrow.

19 June 2008 – To Thomas Island

2008-06-25T21:19:00.001+10:00

Light SE breezes
Left Whitehaven early to get through Solway Passage before the tide began to run too fast. Sailed to Lindeman Island while having breakfast and anchored at Gap Beach to climb Mt Oldfield for one of the best views of the Whitsundays. In a word – spectacular (and no snakes!). The picture at left is looking towards Shaw Island. After lunch, we had a gentle sail between Shaw and Lindeman then around to Thomas Island.

16 – 18 June 2008 – Snorkelling and more

2008-06-25T21:16:00.001+10:00

We left Hamilton Monday morning and sailed through Solway Passage to anchor at Whitehaven Beach. We enjoyed great Gympie steaks on the BBQ and caught up with Lois and Kel’s travels in Europe by barge, bike and train over the last 6 weeks. Tuesday we sailed north to Cateran Bay on Border Island to enjoy some great snorkelling. The water was clearer than we had seen to date with colourful coral and fish. We spent the night here on a mooring. Wednesday we checked out Dumbell and Esk Islands on the way to Chalkie’s Beach. More good snorkelling – this time off a sandy beach with lots of inquisitive fish. Spent the night at Whitehaven.

14 – 15 June 2008 – Crew changeover

2008-06-25T20:55:00.002+10:00

SE 20 – 25 knots
We hiked up the hill overlooking the anchorage at South Molle Island for a fantastic view of where we had sailed over the last week. Excitement on the descent as Warren nearly stood on a snake. We decided to try our new storm jib on the sail to Cid Harbour this morning. Len and Warren got it set and we were happy with the way it performed. Hopefully we won’t need this sail but it is nice to know it is there if required. We spent the night in Cid Harbour as Len and Isla fly home tomorrow from Hamilton and our friends Lois and Kel join us for 10 days. Seas were very rough as we motored to Hamilton on Sunday morning and Len and Isla had some anxious moments when we couldn’t get onto our berth immediately. They made their flight as Isla hitched a lift with one of the many golf buggies after they missed the airport bus. It’s nonstop excitement with us!

13 June 2008 Seawind Rally

2008-06-15T21:43:00.006+10:00

Last race from Stonehaven to South Molle Island. Still plenty of breeze around and a gate start to get the fleet away. Brent has done a great job organising the regatta with a good mix of sailing and socialising in fantastic locations around the Whitsundays.

Golf then the presentation and seafood buffet and a last chance to discuss the weeks sailing, exchange contact details and plan how we will get to the next rally. Our third place today saw us finish in first place overall for the rally - we were a happy if surprised crew. All boats were presented with a framed photo taken on the first day from a helicopter - a wonderful momento of the week.

Tomorrow some crews start the long trip home, some fly out to various parts of Australia and the world, and the lucky ones like us get to spend more time in this beautiful area.

12 June 2008 Seawind Rally

2008-06-15T21:16:00.003+10:00

Race 5 - Tongue Point to Butterfly Bay. Another great sail downwind in 15 - 25 knots. We picked up a mooring in Maureen's Cove on the northern side of Hook Island and went for a snorkel on the reef. There was plenty of good coral and fish however the visibility was not great. A quiet night before the last race tomorrow.

11 June 2008 Seawind Rally

2008-06-15T21:06:00.003+10:00

Race 4 - Shaw Island to Whitehaven Beach. Brent decided to mix things up today with a staggered start based on the boats finish times in the first 3 races. Our good results to date meant we started (and finished) second last. Luckily there was plenty of food at the BBQ lunch prior to the flipper races.

Whitehaven is a hive of activity with monohulls, multis, charter boats and seaplanes.

10 June 2008 Seawind Rally

2008-06-15T20:43:00.003+10:00

Race 3 saw the fleet head south to Shaw Island. 20-25 knots SE again with big seas and unfortunately a couple of boats suffered sail damage and had to retire. The crowd was entertained at happy hour on the beach by a dinghy race where the skipper had to row while blindfolded while their partner gave directions. Luckily they don't sail like this.

7-9 June 2008 Seawind Rally

2008-06-10T09:49:00.004+10:00

Great start to the rally so far. 17 Seawinds here and everyone keen to make new friends and enjoy the opportunity to hear about others adventures and places to visit. Saturday night saw a meet the fleet party at Shute Harbour followed by the first race on Sunday. The forecast 20 - 30 knot winds did not eventuate and we had a nice sail around Long Island to finish (in some chaos) at Happy Bay. The fickle winds and constantly changing places lead to many animated discussions at the Hawaian party that night. Royce was the best of the karaoke lineup and we all somehow found the energy to dance the night away.

Monday saw a Le Mans start where one person from each boat had to start on the beach. This is the first time I can recall a race where the prestart tactical discussion centred on the fastest way to get the dinghy on board and the sails up. It was also lady skippers day and with a steady 20 odd knots of breeze it was an exhilarating sail. Perrfection made it 2 in a row.

Hamilton Island Marina managed to fit us all in and Isla and I climbed to the top of the island for a spectacular view. We had another good night at Romano's restaurant including a trivia quiz.

1-6 June 2008 Whitsunday Cruising

2008-06-06T19:05:00.007+10:00

We are back at Airlie Beach after a week cruising the Whitsundays. The weather has been fantastic (sorry Ben!!) Blue skies, light breezes and some of the most beautiful anchorages. But the week didn't start like that. After Ben caught his flight back to Melbourne last Sunday, we motored back to Cid Harbour as it was still raining and visibility was not good (You may have heard about one poor boatie who ended up on the rocks near Hamilton).

Monday we headed around to Whitehaven Beach where the sun came out for the first time in a week.

On the way we passed these kayakers who were no doubt happy the weather had eased.
We had a paddle in our kayaks at Whitehaven and then headed to Tongue Bay for the evening. Just 3 other boats when we got there and very quiet.........until the charter boats started arriving.

By morning when Warren went to Hill Inlet for a fish there must have been 100 people on the beach. We spent Tuesday night here also and then Wednesday at nearby Esk Island (I couldn't handle another night of the backpackers).

I read while Warren fished and we both kayaked up Hill Inlet. Warren got his first mud crab and we caught enough dart and whiting for several meals.

Thursday we headed for Woodwark Bay (on the mainland north of Airlie Beach). We put our spinnaker up in the light winds. Another beautiful spot and no charter boats. We are now back at Airlie Beach getting organised for the Seawind Rally. Len and Isla join us tomorrow and we have already met a number of other sailors who are participating in the rally including 2 couples from the US. Looks like being great fun.

Saturday 31st May 2008 - Cid Harbour to Hamilton Island

2008-05-31T19:44:00.003+10:00

We awoke to a fog and light drizzle. So far no sunshine for Ben's visit - just like Christmas 2007. Luckily he is going home tomorrow and we expect perfect weather for the next 6 weeks. We relaxed and read enjoying the quiet surroundings. Highlight of the morning was seeing a huge (1m) turtle cruise by. We motored around to Hamilton Island Marina after lunch. An easy dock, beside our next purchase if we ever decide to get a powerboat. Ben and I rode our bikes around the island. This island is where golf buggies rule... they are everywhere! Notably sulpher crested cockatoos may even outnumber the golf buggies... well maybe not.

Friday 30th May 2008 – Shaw Island to Cid Harbour

2008-05-31T19:37:00.002+10:00

Departed 1100, Strong Wind Warning SE 20 – 25 knots
Overcast and windy. Timed our sail to catch the last of the ebb tide down the Whitsunday Passage. Cid Harbour is very protected and we anchored off Sawmill Beach. Went ashore and hiked around to Dugong Beach. Our first exercise for a couple of weeks. No dugongs but we did see a couple of turles. Warren still promising the chocolate cake which he baked for dessert.

Thursday 29th May 2008 – Mackay to Shaw Island

2008-05-31T19:35:00.001+10:00

Departed 0730, Strong Wind Warning SSE 20 – 25 knots
They are talking about a gale warning tomorrow so we have decided to head further north than originally planned as Ben is leaving Sunday from Hamilton Island. 2 reefs in the main but we still made good progress and arrived at Shaw Island about 1430. We have now officially reached the Whitsundays and we had a bottle of champagne (thanks to Suzanne and the ISAS Upgrade team) to celebrate. Warren promised to bake a chocolate cake but it didn’t appear.