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!!
1 comment:
Coolum Surf says clear sailing all the way home. We have all watch you trip with envy but I for one will be glad to see you back Am planning a big party for Monday 14/07/2008 no work just a party
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