Carnarvon to Montebello Islands and return


Day 59: Red Bluff to Carnarvon

Date:July 6, 2016, 5:45 a.m.
Our position:24 54.32 S, 113 37.93 E

5 July 16, a great sleep. We waited to 1st light before heading off so Ted could check out if there was surf but sadly with the swell rolling in from the north it was flat. The morning breeze steady at 14knt E pushed us along at a good rate…then around 11 the wind went bye-bye and our 55nm trip back into Carnarvon just got a whole lot longer!! We occupied ourselves with trawling, taking turns to either slow the boat/haul sails or wheel in the fish…hoping each time for a mackerel. But 6 tuna's later (returned to sea) we gave up and kept our lures in. It was a chilly day so we tucked ourselves up in the cosy cabin…thankful that we can watch nav. system and keep a fairly good look out from within and take turns to put our head out every now and then. We braved the chill to step out and watch Cape Cuvier pass by and also to enjoy a pod of small dolphins near Quobba. We pushed towards home with both motors going flat lick in an effort to beat the tide as we needed to be into the fascine by 5 to have enough water to get into our pen. Thankfully the rain stopped close to home and Ted and I were able to sit out front to watch the1mile jetty go by and reflected on our trip. We list lots of positives…we learnt heaps about sailing safely, we slowed down our crazy busy lives, we managed to read 13 books between us, we didn’t throw each other overboard, we saw/explored/enjoyed very beautiful places and managed to grow a herb garden on-board…our only negative was missing family and friends. At 4.30 we came around the leads and into the fascine which looked beautiful with soft skies reflecting in the shallows as we scooted into the marina. Ma and Pa surprised us on jetty ready to greet us, take our ropes and of course join us for an “arrival drink”... Roz had the champers chilled. Wow-wee...we are home after 2 months of fantastic sailing adventures and are singing off our log book. Thanks X

Add a comment

Day 58: Pt Maud to Red Bluff

Date:July 4, 2016, 6:24 a.m.
Our position:24 1.80 S, 113 26.66 E

4 July 16, having assumed we were stuck waiting out the weather until Wednesday we didn’t rush out of bed then a quick look see at breaky showed a very different forecast and indicated we needed to get going asap to take advantage of a 2 day NE pattern otherwise we would be likely stuck at Coral Bay for a week. Unfortunately our “work” stuff required us to be in phone/email range until 12 so Frank and Roz got going at 8.30 with us planning to follow as soon as we could. With the Red Bluff leg being 63nm it was going to be a big day/night sail. Thankfully 3 calls later we managed to postpone the work stuff and were under way by 10. We made great time once out into open waters and an average speed of 8knts turned our possible 12hr journey (5nm=1hr) into 8 hrs arriving into the Bluff 6pm alongside Frank and Roz. Not keen to risk the dingy in the beach break at night time meant and being totally knackered we celebrated Reid’s birthday with a toast from the boat rather that up at house party… so close but so far!! After a huge day sailing we were not long out of bed, probably our last sleep in our cabin bed for a while…I do confess to our bed at home being one of our “miss the most” along with our kids, family, friends and doggies.

Add a comment

Day 57: Chabjuwardoo Bay to Pt Maud (Coral Bay)

Date:July 3, 2016, 6:22 a.m.
Our position:23 6.93 S, 113 45.83 E

3 July 16, after a very rock’n roll night (tide v’s wind + swell) we pulled pick early and headed towards Pt Maud (11nm away). As it was raining Ted and I huddled in the cabin playing cards, keeping lookout through the front hatches until we hit bommie lookout area again. The drizzle didn’t let up all day requiring me to drag the heavy weather gear out of storage as taking turns in Teds light rain jacket wasn’t cutting the mustard. Managing to get internet as neared Coral Bay we set about sorting some work stuff out…”work” being that 2mth forgotten word reminding us we are close to home and our sailing adventure is almost over. We passed the afternoon with work emails, reading and prepping for another seafood chowder night…prefect for a cold rainy day. Unfortunately a rain squall at tea time meant Frank and Roz couldn’t join us and the chowder was put on hold. I continued with work emails while Ted cooked roast chicken and poured us a sparkly wine. With my nose deep in the laptop I didn’t notice the “chef” consumed a few too many bubbles while cooking until he wobbled up with a goofy smile to the table @ 9.30 with a dry chook and no vegetables for tea.

Add a comment

Day 56: Pt Cloates to Chabjuwardoo Bay

Date:July 2, 2016, 4:58 a.m.
Our position:22 57.24 S, 113 48.89 E

2 July 16, after breaky Ted and I packed ourselves into the dingy for a 17nm round trip to check out the remains of a Whaling Station at Norwegian Bay (north of Pt Cloates). There was a lot of the old plant still there which was interesting to look through and they must have definitely loved beer as there are mega piles of bottles everywhere…sad that they didn’t get made to clean up better. Arriving back to boat for lunch we discovered 2 swallows having a bird party in the boat…I had shut the door on leaving but the cheeky buggers found the open galley hatch. We eventually shooed them out but not before they managed to leave us many little poo surprises to remember them by. It was low tide for our 16nm trip to next anchorage so I was again up front on bommie watch…thankfully too as we avoided another big one not marked on the chart. The weather was gloomy with overcast sky and drizzle when we arrived at Chabjuwardoo Bay. It took 4 attempts before we secured a solid holding so Ted wanting a good night’s sleep put extra chain out. The chilly weather reminds us we are returning home mid-winter…our poor potbelly will be working overtime to help us cope.

Add a comment

Day 55: Yardie Creek to Pt Cloates

Date:July 1, 2016, 3:11 a.m.
Our position:22 43.13 S, 113 45.67 E

1 July 16, our day started with strong winds as we headed out 1st light. Despite my several layers of rugged up I still had the shivers as I stood up front to watch out for bommies. We moved back up into the entry channel to be closer to the surf so Ted could make a dash across if the wind died down. Luckily for him it did around 10ish and he got his 1st surf of the trip on a clean, uncrowded, 4ft break…yep Ted had a smile from ear to ear on his return. The day just got better and better and by mid arvo we were out in calm seas and ½ way to our next stop. Still on lookout for a Whale Shark we didn’t want to rush the trip which was lucky because the wind all but disappeared on us…not even enough to fill the spinnaker sail. Unlike the other day with crazy boat traffic, today was more crazy whale traffic. Ted spotted our 1st Whale Shark and as Murphies Law would have it we got a big first fish strike at same time…so yep in our rush to do all things we managed to the loose fish and sight of the Whale Shark very quickly. An overcast day made spotting the sharks near impossible as we could only look out for a small fin rather than their huge silhouette. Unbelievably I managed to spot a second Whale Shark but sadly with both motors going we scared it and it went deep before we got a good look. It ended up being a big day on the sea as we didn’t get into anchorage until 5…both definitely ready for a warm shower and a cosy night in.

Add a comment

Day 54: Yardie Creek

Date:June 30, 2016, 3:08 a.m.

30 June 16, A quiet morning for us as we snuggled down with books waiting for a 25knt southerly to blow past. By midday it had died down and Ted scooted off in the dingy to check out the surf… unfortunately to not be a death trap the wave required more tide and that wasn’t happening until late arvo…so back to chill’n it was.

Add a comment

Day 53: Tandabiddi to Yardie Creek

Date:June 29, 2016, 2:56 a.m.
Our position:22 22.92 S, 113 46.30 E

29 June 16, waking to especially beautiful weather we decided we would have a go slow day out on the water and abandon our rule “under 5knt=motors on”. We figured on this giving us more opportunity to spot Whale Sharks as well as fishing... there was also no need to rush to our next anchorage as it was only 25nm. While unfortunately no Whale Sharks were spotted we did get to hook and loose a Marlin, watch a Sailfish repeatedly fly out of the water, get followed and up close to 2 False Killer Whales and be surrounded all day by Humpbacks... we had to change course to avoid running over 2 that seem to want to play chicken. Ted had a bottom bounce fish on the back side of the reef but after pulling up nothing but blowfish he soon gave up and headed to the Yardie surf break for a look see...it was working with 9 crew on it. Ted promised himself a surf the next day as we needed to continue so we could navigate the entry channel and random bommies while we still had tide and light. Once in the channel we headed south to Sandy Pt so we could be tucked away from the forecasted strong southerly…that didn’t arrive. The spozie we put pick down was a lovely bay but unfortunately just inside the sanctuary area so no fishing for us. We went for a beach walk instead and Ted still feeling energetic decided to scrub the hull…when he finally got out of the water shivering he looked like Captain Black Beard. To avoid scrubbing the hull I chose to try and finish my chalk drawing…mindful I will be back to reality and work very soon. A specie sunset and lamb roast with Frank and Roz wound up a totally wicked day!!

Add a comment

Day 52: Exmouth to Tandabiddi

Date:June 28, 2016, 3:01 a.m.
Our position:21 53.95 S, 113 58.76 E

28 June 16; As Ted had a work call @ 7.30 so we didn’t rush away and instead after the call was all done we headed to the Novotel for breaky with Kev. It was still a bit breezy but at least we didn’t require the ugg’s. After eating way too much we waddled back to boat and soon were heading out the leads…a quarter to 10 was a bit late departing and with tide and wind pushing against us we gritted our teeth and made way into the slop until we were around the top of the Cape. The boat handled perfectly and Ted and I just held on as we took a few good waves over the bow…2 1/2 hrs later we were past Norwest reef, around the tip when finally the slop/winds settled. It was like turning a corner into a different day…with the seas now following and the breeze light on our butt we put up the spinnaker, goose winged it with the mainsail and turned off the motors. With the sun out and calm waters it was a beautiful day and Ted and I had a picnic lunch on the front tramps watching the whale and 101 boats go by. We got into Tandabiddi around 3 and as soon as the anchor was set we deployed the dingy to head out squidding and sightseeing. We only had the rods in 5 min when Ted landed a big squid and we were so busy trying not to get the boat inked we missed the even bigger one that followed him in…if we had realised these would be the only squid seen for the rest of the day we would have been more careful. Pizza and Cards for the evening…I was card champ again!!?

Add a comment

Day 51: Tent Island to Exmouth

Date:June 27, 2016, 2:08 a.m.
Our position:21 57.37 S, 114 8.44 E

27 June 16; we set off early while we still had enough tide to get out…it was getting super shallow, super-fast. As we have no idea where we will be on Election Day we had arranged for our postal vote to be sent to Exmouth and it needed to be collected asap. The predicted light 10-13 knt E wind ended up being a strong 20-27 knt that saw us needing to pull up half way and put in a 2nd reef. We were also being pushed around by the big seas, some with white caps…add freezing to the morning and I begged Ted to turn the boat around and take me back up north. Rocked, rolled, windblown and chilled we managed to get into Exmouth harbour at lunchtime. Kev the star lent us a car so we managed to vote (on the most ridiculous forms ever/over 1 m long) and do a fresh food shop… I even managed to wash/dry a load of laundry in the middle of it all. Our great mate Tim Fisher managed to join us on boat for a sundowner which was wicked…it had been way too long between beers.

Add a comment

Day 50: Tent Island (Exmouth Gulf)

Date:June 26, 2016, 2:07 a.m.

26 June 16; we woke to strong S winds so didn’t race out of bed…that and the fact it was bloody freezing. Ted and I are both getting very nervous about returning home in mid-winter…we are already needing 2-3 layers of clothes and the uggies don’t come off until lunch time. Thankfully the wind blue itself out by 1 and we were packed and off in the dingy to explore 10 min later. It was an awesome day on the water…the creeks full of bird life and then we came across more dugongs who seemed so unafraid of boats that they ignored us completely. We went around Simpson Island trawling without much luck…but we also weren’t the most patient fishermen as we wanted to keep looking around. The west side of the island was very beautiful with rock ledges and crystal clear water. Ted went in for a dive…groaned as he hit the freezing water, lasted about 5 minutes and then climbed up the nearest ledge to warm himself on the rocks…It took him about an hour to warm his feet and other bits. I managed to catch a nice sized Chinaman cod…it was chased in by a big Mangrove Jack and despite my frantic fishing afterwards I was unable to secure a swap. We returned to boat before sunset to prep for our eagerly awaited Chilli Mud Crab cook up. Thank you Onslow for the crabs and Dad for the recipe… they did not disappoint!!

Add a comment

Day 49: Tent Island (Exmouth Gulf)

Date:June 25, 2016, 2:06 a.m.

25 June 16; today it blew and blew and blew so we read and read and read. A great day of relaxing after our 9 hr sail yesterday.

Add a comment

Day 48: Onslow to Tent Island (Exmouth Gulf)

Date:June 24, 2016, 2:05 a.m.
Our position:22 5.52 S, 114 31.27 E

24 June 16; Early start was achieved…thank god as we had 53 nm to cover in the day. My thoughtful hubby left me asleep for the 1st couple of hours which was totally awesome. With the weather being a bit unpredictable lately we decided to skip an overnighter at Long Island and instead sail directly to Tent making the most of the predicted 15knt NE wind before the weekend gets woolly again. Unfortunately it ended up being a gloomy day, light showers and no huff n’ puff making for a very slow trip. With both motors powering away we maintained an average 6knts and arrived at Tent 9hrs later, luckily still with enough tide to get in over the shallows. The water was like glass and I sat on the back step to watch a dugong fed in the outgoing tide. A cold, drizzly kind of night that required our uggies…can’t believe we were in shorts a week ago.

Add a comment

Day 46-47: Onslow

Date:June 23, 2016, 12:10 a.m.

22-23 June 16; we are still hunkered down in Beadon Creek waiting for a weather window so we can head safely to Exmouth…Friday is looking good. Whilst overcast and raining the predicted strong winds haven’t been that bad and we are regularly checking weather reports for a miracle. We are filling our days with mud crabbing, games and reading. We went into town Wednesday to do the washing and to check out the local museum. The museum was great but unfortunately the caravan park laundry didn’t have a dryer so it was back to boat to hang it out on the side rails in-between rain showers. Wednesday night we got a scare as mid movie we felt our boat get too up close and personal with Frank and Roz’s boat …the horrible “bump” sound made us race on deck where we quickly realised the ripping tide and wind had moved both boats across the creek and way too close together. The spozie we are anchored in is not very big and when their boat became stuck in the mud we were still being pulled by the tide, stretching our chain length/swing and the wind had us doing whoopee’s. Our boats had collided lightly…luckily with no damage. We pulled our chain in to its barest minimum and put the fenders out…not much sleep had as we kept look out. We moved the boat out of the creek and back to the main beach Thursday arvo to avoid another “bump in the night” and ready for our departure to Exmouth the next day. We went into town for tea at the pub and realised what a small world it is as we all bumped into crew we knew. We escaped reasonably early…though a little wobbly as we had a 6am start planned.

Add a comment

Day 45: Onslow

Date:June 21, 2016, 8:35 a.m.
Our position:21 39.15 S, 115 7.91 E

21 June 16; hunkered down and raining = sleep in, banana pancakes and a book…well that lasted us until 10ish then we craved activity!! We dragged 4 crab pots out and set off up creek using the cod skeletons as bait then returning to boat we set about doing odd jobs as we waited for the crabs to climb on in. Ted installed new rod holders and replaced a rusty ballcock while I did the washing which had been soaking for a couple of days and needed finishing asap …I know I looked totally crazy hanging it out, bringing it in and rehanging it between showers but I didn’t want stinky clothes. After 2 rounds of unsuccessful pot pulls Ted told me the crabs hibernated in winter…this I had to of course google fact check. I ended up finding a fishing blog all about catching muddies which implied we were doing it wrong…so with new tips we headed back out and reset the pots landing ourselves a huge green mud crab. We didn’t want him to be lonely so in-between downpours we continued to check the pots and wrapped up the arvo with 3 big beasties. As we are heading to Exmouth soon we put the crabs on chill ready for a chilli crab night with crew there. The rain continued to bucket down arvo/night and I was forced to give up on the washing leaving it to hang soaking on the side rails…tomorrow we find a laundry mat.

Add a comment

Day 44: Port Weld to Onslow

Date:June 20, 2016, 8:32 a.m.
Our position:21 39.15 S, 115 7.91 E

20 June 16; we poked our head around the corner of Port Weld just before 7 with both motors on as the “power” wind we had yesterday had turned into a slight breeze. It was a slow 6knt trip as we manoeuvred through Mangrove Passage past the Marianne Group of islands and into Onslow late arvo. We had been hoping to skip Onslow and get ourselves to Serrurier Island for a couple of days diving/fishing but alas the weather god had other plans for us. With a cold front pushing through and strong winds predicted we decided to hunker down in Beadon Creek (Onslow) and let it pass. We parked up at the front beach raced in for a quick shop (potatoes & red wine) and then made our way up into the creek with black clouds looming overhead…low tide and me driving up the skinny channel added excitement to our day. We only just got the big girl in and when our alarms screamed 0.0 underneath I happily handed the helm back to Ted. It took a couple of tries but we finally found a deep enough hole and got the pick down minutes before the rains hit. Being able to sit back deck, beer in hand, and watch to weather roll in has us very thankful for the rear cockpit shades…now rain shields. The rains + outgoing tide brought the water to life with fish jumping everywhere. Ted couldn’t help himself and stood in the rain to try his luck…after an hour odd of no strikes he admitted defeat and came inside for a hot shower and a crumbed cod tea.

Add a comment

Day 43: Cape Preston to Port Weld

Date:June 19, 2016, 2:04 a.m.
Our position:21 23.47 S, 115 32.87 E

19 June 16; after a lovely calm night the winds picked up in the morning to supply us again with a perfect 15-18knt NE pushing us to our next stopover point. After yesterday we decided to be better prepped for strong wind gusts and put 2 reefs in the mainsail before heading out. The day before had us being overpowered when the wind reached gusts 25+ on beam which created autopilot steering issues …this we rectified by keeping the headsail in nice and tight and with the push/pull on sails seeming to keep us on course (we sail by trial and error). We had a wicked run across to Shoal Island as we had the wind behind us and were able to goosewing our sails and cruise along at a steady 7knts. We turned south after Shoal and this (plus winds lightening to 15) gave us the perfect opportunity to deploy the Spinnaker…my fav sail. As sailing newbies each time we get this tricky sail up it is a learning adventure…and today we did high fives + happy dance as she went up beautifully. Not only does the big sail look totally wicked it added 3 knots to our speed and the Endless Dream quickly became a tiny blimp on the horizon behind us. Having a great sail and making good time meant we were able to pull up early arvo at a creek north of Port Weld and go fishing. The tide had a massive 3 metre “slurp out” (Ted words) and the rushing waters created a short, sharp chop that made getting into the dingy challenging as it bounced up and down in a different sequence to the big boat. Ted was forced into performing a sugar glider manoeuvre as he launched himself onto the dingy and adverted ending up in the drink with our rod's...when I finally managed to stop laughing we carefully loaded the rest of gear and scooted into the creek while we could…this time clothed and covered in insect repellent. We trawled for a little in the main creek before heading to a small shoot off to the right of the entry…now named Cod Corner as within 10 minutes we had landed 3 beaut size cods for the tea & fridge. We continued fishing for a bit as cod after cod kept taking the bite (us playing catch/release) before heading back to boat for the 5nm trek to Port Weld…unsure of its naming as it is a small island/sand spit not a Port. We arrived, set pick and watched a beautiful sunset with wine in hand from our back step. The winds were non-existent for the evening and when the tide stopped ripping the boat never moved...making for an awesome sleep.

Add a comment

Day 42: Eagle Hawk Island to Cape Preston

Date:June 18, 2016, 1:59 a.m.
Our position:20 54.94 S, 116 10.90 E

18 June 16; we woke smiling to 16-18knt NE winds…just what we need to super power our 35nm trip to the Cape. With 1 reef in we flew across the water at an average 8 knots and at one stage when the winds picked up into the 20’s we were going over 11. Needless to say our anticipated 6 hr voyage took us only 3 ½ hrs. Cape Preston we discovered is definitely just a stopover point and not very pretty to look at. After our recent issues with skatie bottoms we now really appreciate good holding (something we take for granted back home) and Preston offered us lots of good ole mud to stick the pick in!! With strong winds still blowing we were left with no choice but to snuggle down on the couch with our books and wait it out. At 4 the winds had abated and we set off in the dingy to visit the Fortescue River…very optimistically with bait and rods. What we didn’t fully consider in our rush off boat was the rip roaring tides of the moment and with 2.5m of water vacating the area we were just a little cork to push around and there wasn’t enough water to cross the sand bank into the Fortescue. Never easily deterred we bounced…and I mean “bounced” our way to the nearby Potter Island for a beach/ mangrove walk before returning to boat, anti-itch cream (sand flies love me) and sundowners with Frank and Roz. We had a quiet night and I flogged Ted in cards again…

Add a comment

Day 41: Burrup Peninsular to Eagle Hawk Island

Date:June 17, 2016, 1:57 a.m.
Our position:20 39.06 S, 116 26.38 E

17 June 16; we got going early today so we could have a full tide to explore crystal creek (bottom Enderby Island) on our way to our nights anchorage. Skipper Ted decided we would take the long way round so he could buzz by the huge rig and its steering ships positioned at the top of West Lewis Island. This of course required us to again cross the busy port channels with huge ships/tankers passing before and behind us…this did not do much for my grey hair count. The rig up close was super impressive and amazed us in how it can stay afloat. Due to our little gawking detour when we got to Crystal Creek the tide had turned and we quickly had to get up stream before all the water had rushed out. Thankfully this we managed and were then able to then float out on the rushing water alongside a couple of turtles (Ted snorkelling alongside the dingy and me on paddle board). It was lunch by the time we were back on boat so we took some chill time before kicking the motors back into gear and heading to Eagle Hawk our exit point from the Dampier Islands. We trawled on the way across and I pulled in another monster Trevally…quickly set free after a photo. Our last attempt at anchoring at the island (east side) on our way in had not gone well…thankfully this time on the north west side we got a good holding straight up. We had enough time before sunset to walk the beach as well as check out the wrecked barge. I managed to slaughter Ted in cards before we called an early night as we had early start in the morning to begin our trek home to Carnarvon.

Add a comment

Day 40: Burrup Peninsular

Date:June 16, 2016, 1:15 p.m.

16 June 16; with a full day of exploring planned we packed the snacks, radio, water and sunburn cream and hit the dingy. We travelled up along the east side of the Burrup Peninsular before stopping at Dolphin Island for a bit of a fish …Ted thinks we have better chance of winning lotto than getting a fish up this way but it is still fun trying. The day was beautiful with just enough cloud cover to stop it being too hot and the water that sparkled. We made our way up Flying Foam passage (between the islands) checking out the spectacular rock formations…it would have made for hard living back in the day but definitely is specie for viewing now. We cut across to the western side of island group through the shallows at top of Gidley Island watching out for prop busters as well as turtles. The tide was running out fast so it was a tight squeeze out through the last bit of shallows before we headed south, back down the west side of Angle Island. Angle is now our fav. island…with amazing aboriginal art on east side then an awesome beach and sand bank wave we discovered on the west makes it an absolute must do!! We returned smiling but knackered to the boat late arvo just in time for a specie sundowner on a nearby beach. A GREAT DAY!

Add a comment

Day 39: East Lewis Island to Burrup Peninsular (west of Conzinc Island)

Date:June 15, 2016, 10:40 a.m.
Our position:20 32.60 S, 116 48.50 E

15 June 16; after a wicked sleep in we headed back across the busy port to Burrup and its surrounding Dampier Archipelago Islands. We had a lovely glass off day… but no wind meant no sails. We had to put the pedal to the metal about half way across to avoid bumping into a huge gas tanker making its way into port via the channel we had to cross. We managed to achieve an anchor hold within two attempts so after waiting 10 min to confirm no skating we set off in the dingy. Roz and Frank recalled finding aboriginal art work on nearby Angel Island many years back so testing their memory cells we travelled along the edge until they recognised the area and creek entry by it’s unique rock formations. My google research prior indicated approx 500,000 artworks can be found across the Burrup area…figure our chances of find some were pretty high. The creek we found was very special, the rock formations quite unique and the art bountiful. We could easily picture aboriginal family’s of times gone by enjoying their time by the various rock pools. We climbed through the gully admiring the many images scratched into the rock…in awe of the skill and the heritage. Returning to dingy late in the arvo we scoffed a belated lunch and then headed home. As is usual on this holiday our afternoon included a beer, nanna nap prior to tea prep…lamb roast!!

Add a comment

Day 38: Hamilton Harbour to East Lewis Island

Date:June 14, 2016, 3:46 a.m.
Our position:20 32.67 S, 116 48.42 E

14 June 16; Back on boat, fresh sheets and the sound of water lapping made for a long, restful sleep…that and the fact we were absolutely knackered from our trek to Bali. The weather that was reported to have been awful (winds, overcast & raining) while we were away had returned to clear skies and glass off ready for us to head out to sea again…we are definitely thinking we have pleased the weather god at some point?? Matt very graciously lent us his vehicle again so we headed into Karratha for fresh stores prior to leaving the harbour at 1pm. Our intent was to stay west of Coutenay Hd. on Malus Island but we weren’t able to get our anchor to hold. Ted jumped over and saw only flat rocky bottom so figuring our pick would continue to skate across it we sort out an alternative spot. After referring back to the suggested anchorage in the Cruisers Guide we headed to a bay on West Lewis Island but unfortunately after several anchor tries and throwing Ted overboard again we found the same type of bottom. As it was getting on in the afternoon and our arrival beers were waiting chilled we moved on quickly to try Boiler Rock and when we skated there too we frustratingly had to give up on the topside of the island group to head back south to East Lewis Island…ironically only 6nm from our leaving point. It was dark when we arrived and after a belated sundowner on The Endless Dream we returned to boat for a yummy tea and early night with our pick finally stuck fast in the MUD!!

1 Comments:

Mum: Sounds like you are falling back into the "Life on the Ocean" very easily :-) xxxxxx June 16, 2016, 1:18 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 24 to 37: From Boat to Bali and Back

Date:June 13, 2016, 1:34 a.m.

1st to 13th June; WOW WE, what an absolutely wicked, whirlwind trip had by both of us over last 13 days. After having bit of an explore of Dampier, Karratha, Roebourne and Cossack we cleaned, filled and prepped the boat making it safe to be left alone and also ready to go on our return. We caught up with Matt and Tam for a night out in Karratha before dragging our sore, sorry heads to the airport early Saturday to fly to Perth. We met up with Ma, Pa and the Kids at hotel Starcevich (Vick & Andrew's) and proceeded to commence into "Family Holiday Mode" immediately. As we are slow learners we again dragged sore heads to the airport to fly to Bali. It was awesome to be with our family again after a month away and also exciting to be heading overseas with our now adult kids...so different! We stayed in Seminyak and all had a great time together...highlights included beach diners, live music, paintball and cocktails + boys tattoo's. Kids flew back on the 10th while Ma, Pa, Ted and I moved across to Benoa to attend Robbie and Karen's wedding celebrations...and a celebration it definitely was!!! A crazy love and laughter filled event that included a guest pledge to party, fire dancers, an unlimited cocktail bar and cake cutting fireworks...put all that with getting to see 2 very special people tie the knot made for an incredible night. We flew back into Perth on the 12th, again overfilling the Starcevich household with Godden's and Parry's before we all headed our separate ways the next morning. Ted and I got back to Karratha and back on boat late arvo on the 13th and were definitely feeling ready for a "holiday" after our "holiday".

Add a comment

Day 23: Shoal Bay, West Intercourse Island to Dampier Port

Date:May 31, 2016, 3:49 a.m.
Our position:20 39.84 S, 116 41.85 E

31 May 16; I will not lie…I woke feeling like an iron ore barge had run me over during the night. The tide ripping past had kept us rock'n-roll'n as well as suppling a whole night of water slapping the underside of boat and dingy… this coupled with our prior 12 hour sail meant I felt 100 and the fact that Ted had slept through it all didn’t help my morning deposition. On the plus side we didn’t need to rush off so I got to rest up before we headed into port at 11ish. The trip in made for great viewing and Ted and I sat on front checking out the action as we cruised past massive ships and loading jetties of the salt, iron ore and gas. We managed to get ourselves nice anchorage just in front of the Dampier Yacht Club and after lunch and a nana nap headed in to introduce ourselves and put some washing on. While the washing washed we walked up to the main shopping centre for a look see...unfortunately the mining recession seems to have hit here as the centre was empty bar a small grocery/liquor shop. We of course supported the shop with a wine purchase because unbelievably the wine rack on board was empty?? When chilling in the early evening we got an awesome visit from the Dyson clan who it was wicked to catch up with again after so long and who have also graciously loaned us a vehicle and secured a mooring for us to leave the boat on when we fly to Bali (for special wedding) this Friday.

Add a comment

Day 22: Hermite Island to West Intercourse Island, Mermaid Strait

Date:May 30, 2016, 3:40 a.m.
Our position:20 41.23 S, 116 35.29 E

30 May 16; sadly, under a beautiful pink sunrise we watched the islands of the Monte’s shrink in the distance as sailed towards Cape Preston (37nm) our planned stopover to Dampier. We also said see ya to Don who was going to sail Escapee across in a couple of days. It was blowing a good 14knt southerly as we pushed at 6 knts into the 1m seas at our nose…the ups and downs on board made my choice of pancakes for breakfast quite comical. About an hour out from the islands we made the decision to adjust our course to head directly towards Dampier. This put the breeze at our butt and seas on our side…much more comfortable as well as upping our average speed to 8 knts. We now had 47nm to cover before dark so we kept our sails full and 1 motor on. In the arvo, with the Dampier Archipelago islands in sight, we had light SW winds and our speed had dropped to 6ish…just right for trawling!! It didn’t take too long to get a hit and Ted was soon reeling in a nice size Mackerel while I slowed the boat. After Ted had finished prep and clean-up on the back step we decided one more lure could go back in so I might have a go and also ensure we would have fish to share with family for upcoming visit. The sails were barely reset and us again underway when the lure was taken…and oh boy this time by a biggy. We were almost spooled before I got to grab the rod so Ted quickly slowed the boat and I just held on and wheeled in a little when the fish would allow. My arms must be getting stronger because I am sure I didn’t whinge as much as before and when landed this Mackerel at 1320mm measured bigger than my first fish. As poor Ted now had another to clean and fillet on the back step and we agreed no more trawling for the day and quickly got going again. It was about 4 when we got to a small island just south of Dampier called of Eagle Hawk and attempted to set up for the night. Unfortunately the rocky bottom meant the pick kept slipping and with a massive ship wreaked on the beach reminding us of the importance of safe anchorage both boats called it a fail and we set about finding somewhere better. It was decided the north side of west Intercourse Island was the best option…with not much breeze this meant we had 2 more hours of travel time. We arrived at 5, 12 hours after our Monte departure, understandably feeling knackered and in need of an early night. Using a tiny bit of my monster fish I had cooked up a couple of fish bakes on the way and sent Ted across to deliver “meals on boat” to Frank and Roz.

Add a comment

Day 21: Turtle Lagoon to Whisky Bay, Hermite Island

Date:May 29, 2016, 2:40 a.m.
Our position:20 28.30 S, 115 32.82 E

29 May 16; an average breaky today as our perishables have got a bit long in the tooth…definitely time for us to head into port. As we had to wait for another 2 meters of water before departure Ted and I settled into our books for a couple of hours. Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea was my read…a great book but has ensured catching a Marlin is now off my bucket list. I paddled around Turtle Lagoon scaring all the stingrays that were prowling its bottom…they were so well covered with sand it was like looking down at a floor of eyes. After bloating ourselves on left over Mariana we snuck over the sandbank and out into western waters at 12.30, heading south to Claret Bay at the bottom of Hermite Island. Our trek was uneventful as we had plenty of water underneath, no swell and no bommie surprises. Claret Bay was pretty but we decided to push on around the corner as the Bay would be a bit exposed to the southerly expected in the evening. Ted and I pulled up to fish at Hangover Head just south of Cherry Lagoon…yes we are laughing at these names too. I was first on and despite me doing everything wrong fishing wise I managed to land a lovely sized Norwest Snapper. Not to be out done Ted’s line went off and he managed outsized my fish within minutes. We managed to land one more before they went off the bite and 10 min later Mr Impatience had pulled pick to head to Whisky Bay for our night stop. A lovely little bay but as there were a few bommies scattered around Ted jumped over for a quick recon. He was back in the boat within seconds of hitting the water trying to grab his gun and throw a line in as it was buzzing fish life under us. At this point I had to highlight we were now in sanctuary area and I had already de-rigged the rods etc…I think I saw a tear!! We made the boat ship-shape for our next day’s sail…we both a little excited as we have missed sailing over the last week. Frank and Roz kindly offered us Fish and Veg for tea so with our dingy stowed away we decided to dual paddle board over to The Endless Dream. We opted for me to stand and paddle and Ted to kneel in front and despite my laughing upsetting our precarious balance we made it there dry. I did not get the option to paddle home…darkness, rolly-polly swell and red wine made Ted our safest bet.

Add a comment

Day 20: Chartreuse Bay to Turtle Lagoon

Date:May 28, 2016, 2:38 a.m.
Our position:20 26.49 S, 115 31.36 E

28 May 16; a chill morning for us…. We don’t have enough fuel in the dingy to venture too far and we can’t move the big boat until the tide nears its peak at lunchtime. Secretly I was glad for the rest as my body was feeling a little old and sore after my recent muddy fall and rocky hike…made me wonder to how Vic was going on her Kokoda trek? After much discussion (men team meeting) it was agreed all 3 boats would travel out to the western side of islands and around the bottom of Hermite Island in readiness for our run to Dampier planned this Monday. Our planned anchorage was just west of Turtle Lagoon…fingers crossed we had enough water to get in. Ted and I had checked out depth etc. in our previous exploration so Ted felt comfortable it would suit and me… well I’m always a nervous nelly so I just kept fingers crossed and eyes preened for sneaky bommies. Our trip went smoothly as we zig-zagged through the channels and we got a couple extra knts from the outgoing tide. It was a little snug at the end as we scooted over the last sandbank with just 90 under boat meaning we were only getting back out on next full tide at 1.30 tomorrow….yippee another sleep in!!! Tucked in along a west facing point we barely felt the 15-18 knt southerly and had a great arvo…me drawing and Ted out diving the nearby islands. Yep…that meant more fish and Cray for tea. I decided to do a seafood marinara (my first) as we still had prawns and cockles along with recently caught squid, pearl meat and fish. Thankfully a random 1 bar on the phone allowed me to quickly google a recipe and set to work…just joking as it was simple I put on some tunes, cracked a beer and pottered away in the galley. Sundowners started at 5 with Frank, Roz and Don joining us aboard and we chewed through my Marinara later in the evening…it was delicious.

Add a comment

Day 19: Chartreuse Bay, Alpha Island

Date:May 27, 2016, 4:08 a.m.
Our position:20 24.44 S, 115 31.49 E

27 May 16; Having checked out the southern islands the day before we were now super keen to go west but as lots of the area is uncharted we chose to leave the big girl safe in the bay and use the dingy. So at 8ish with a radio, water, crackers and reasonable15 knt SE blowing we headed out to western waters through Alpha and Bluebell Islands. We spent the morning weaving in and out of the multiple islands…a bit of diving, a bit of fishing and lots of exploring later we had sussed out a couple of possible pathways to bring the bigger boats through…ideally to anchor at Turtle Lagoon. Spotting a nice looking wave in the distant west Ted bounced us to the outer reef for a closer look…this then of course required us to bounce our way back in. As on our last fuel tank I was hoping we still had enough to get back as while bounce was uncomfortable rowing would be MUCH worse. Living on the edge Ted chose not to check the tank but keep exploring so next we went North circumnavigating Blue Bell then East across channel to Gardenia Island where we found a gorgeous little unnamed lagoon to spend a couple of hours in. This lagoon was very tucked away, ringed by mangroves and had multiple birds signing away. . Being totally prepared to fish “not” Ted had to use pearl meat from a shell he found earlier for bait to snag himself a monster whiting. It was a honker but unfortunately he must have put the word out as he was our only catch for the day. We returned to boat exhausted, roasted and in great need of an “arrival beer” at 3. Deciding a quiet night was to go we shared our exploration info with the others over a sundowner or 2 then headed back for the couch and a movie. Realising the wind had disappeared and the water had gone to glass we dragged our weary bodies from the couch, grabbed a pillow and spent the rest of the evening camped out on the front nets gazing at a spectacular night sky and its ocean reflection.

Add a comment

Day 18: Trimoullie Island- Chartreuse Bay, Alpha Island

Date:May 26, 2016, 4:07 a.m.
Our position:20 24.44 S, 115 31.49 E

26 May 16; an early southerly breeze meant Main Bay was not its usual perfect so around 9 we all set off to the western islands to find better protection. While the Escapee and Endless Dream tucked up against Campbell Island for the day we kept going south into Stephenson Channel…as Ted had a spot he wanted us to trek up to on Hermite Island. We parked the big girl in Brandy Bay and just encase an unlucky mud crab was out for a stroll we took the dingy and headed to the nearby mangroves. After what Ted reports as “much moaning” on my part we climb out of the twisted trees and knee deep mud having landed on my ass looking a little worse for wear. Ted…seemingly not satisfied with my damaged dignity then led the way over the dunes, around the bays, across the rocks and up to the islands highest point through thousands of needle bushes. Not the stealthiest of hikers I managed to scare the crap out of myself and the local wide life nearly falling into the needle bushes as the ½ wallaby- ½ Bilby looking creatures jumped out of nowhere at me. We reached the top at lunch time and boy was the view worth it…not the rusty remains of the Brit’s nuclear base camp… but the 360 degree view of the bays was stunning. By standing atop the dilapidated structure and holding the phone to the sky we managed to download a much needed 7 day wind forecast and synoptic chart and via an intermittent 1 bar phone service…so 1 hour later we were ready to hike back down. When back on boat and back to our “explore day” we decided to check out Faraday Channel on our way back to join the others. With the tides averaging a whopping 2.5 to 3 meter changeover we made sure we had enough water under us and I returned to the bommie spotter role. We passed lots of beautiful bays with Champagne Bay being the highlight (noted as stunning & must return to). I am starting to think the explorers/namers of these islands may have had a drinking problem…we have been to the Bays of Vodka, Brandy and Champagne and still have Claret, Whisky and Stout to visit. Joining the others late arvo we collectively decide to relocated back into the well protected Chartreuse Bay as uncertain winds for the evening. Ted and I are lucky enough to be visited by Mr and Mrs Bloody Huge Cod who we share our squid bait with.

Add a comment

Day 17: Trimoullie Island- Main Bay

Date:May 25, 2016, 9:35 a.m.
Our position:20 24.08 S, 115 34.08 E

25 May 16; we woke to another specky “variable winds” day…I love these type of days as it means glass off and stunning scenery. No winging from us now about not having any wind as we don’t sail when navigating the shallows. Ted and I took turns on the paddle board to check out the rocky outcrop of the Point and shallow reefs. We had about 20 squid swim by the boat and I finally managed to catch one without help though catching probably not an apt description as they just kept jumping on the line…despite me having super fun wheeling them in we had to stop as we already had enough. Ted distracted my squid blood lust by chucking me back in the dingy and heading out for another dive…this time around a small island in the bay. I honestly can’t remember a dive so filled with sea life...it was amazing, the reef was buzzing with every tropical fish I can think of. Around 11 we decided more exploring was called for so we pulled pick and continued to circumnavigate Trimoullie. We reached Vodka Bay where we hiked the big hill to an old observation bunker and walked the cliff edge so we were looking out over the other islands “spectacular”. We returned to boat for a yummy squid salad lunch and a chilled vodka in honour of Vodka Bay. The day continued to bless us with “WOW” as we steamed around the bottom through Wheatstone channel back to Main Beach where we stayed for the night. We put on a full lamb roast & veg and shared another fantastic night of good food and good company.

Add a comment

Day 16: Alpha Island to Trimoullie Island- Pitt Point

Date:May 24, 2016, 9:32 a.m.
Our position:20 23.32 S, 115 33.86 E

24 May 16; we woke to a magical day, the winds had disappeared and our 7.30 weather report (via short wave radio) confirmed variable winds under 10 knots for a few days…in short beautiful weather that would allow us to go anywhere. So after a paddle board and breaky we were out of the bay and back navigating through the shallows in convoy to Bunsen Channel (west side of Trimoullie Island) which would take us north along the island around the top and then south to Pitt Point our anchorage for the night. The day was glorious… like a postcard with blue skies and turquoise water. Ted and I pulled into Main Bay for a run, swim and fish while the others kept travelling. We got to have this special beach all to ourselves for the morning and left with a tasty big squid. We then headed up the island a bit further to a small lagoon called Louis William for lunch and another swim before trawling around the top of Trimoullie to anchor at Pitt Point. No fish caught but the day just got better and better with this stunning spot providing us a beautiful long white beach, tropical oasis snorkelling and swimming in crystal clear water. Ted caught …I should say wrestled a couple of Cray’s out…they are ginormous and watching him I wasn’t sure who was winning the battle until the end. We were feeling knackered at days end but both agreed it was a WOW day!!

Add a comment

Day 15: Chartreuse Bay, Alpha Island

Date:May 23, 2016, 9:27 a.m.
Our position:20 24.44 S, 115 31.49 E

23 May 16; with the southerly getting stronger we decided to stay tucked up behind Alpha Island until it passed over. The bay offers us really good protection from the wind and keeps calm waters so we are super comfortable with minimal rocking. The wind seems to be stronger in the mornings so it was a good excuse to get comfortable on the couch with our books. About mid-morning we got a visit from the bay’s residential cod affectingly called Kodak after the tourist incident. Ted had kept the Cray leftovers from yesterday ready and waiting. We tried with the tail first and whilst he came close to check it out he didn’t eat it until Ted had let it float off. Next we put out the massive head (the Cray had been the size of a small dog) with Ted holding the feelers…then OMG did he bite. He swallowed it whole and gave us a hell of a fright when he launched himself out of water to grab it…I went flying back up into the boat and totally muffed up the footage. Needless to say I am no longer swimming off the back of the boat. The winds settled down in the arvo so we set off to explore starting with the nuclear bomb site on Alpha Island where I swear I bumped into a mutant spider as I trekked through the bushes. There is still twisted metal strewn across the island and warning signs to stay no more than 1hr a day. From the top we got a specky 360 degree view of the Monte’s which had us itching to get out and visit them all. We also buzzed by the bottom of Blue Bell Island…after a little dive, fishing and dolphin visit we returned in time for our dinner reservation aboard Escapee. A great night had as Don cooked us all a mean feed but unfortunately ended with Frank dropping his camera into the drink as he transferred back to boat. As it was in a snap-lock bag we figured there was a chance for retrieval so we set out in the dingy scanning the area with the spotlight. Sadly no camera caught but Ted and I did catch 2 squid that kept chasing our spot light.

Add a comment

Day 14: Chartreuse Bay, Alpha Island

Date:May 22, 2016, 9:25 a.m.
Our position:20 24.55 S, 115 31.53 E

22 May 16; a chill day for us…a steady southerly wind made it a perfect washing day…that and I was out of clean undies. I set up my wash and rinse buckets at the back step and got to it and by the time I was done the boat looked like a floating clothes line. I am currently reading a book about the First Fleet’s journey so no way was I going to whinge about the effort needed to manually wash. With the tide rushing in Ted set off to explore while I did some reading/housekeeping. He rocked back at lunchtime with 5 squid so straight to the pan they went…talk about fresh produce? The tide settled down enough at 3 for a dive so Ted went back out to play while I prepped for our first Seafood Chowder. We had brought Cockles and Prawns with us and Teds fruitful arvo dive with Don we added Cray, pearl meat and Coral Trout…thanks Pa for the recipe…it was an absolute hit. There is a huge residential cod living in the bay and after 5 years of visiting here it seems to know the sound of Don’s boat and follows him like a puppy. When he dives they have the deal one Cray for you and one for me…He is longer than me and twice as wide. Tomorrow in the daylight we plan to feed him the Cray head so we can get a better look and a “above water” photo of him…rumour has it he totally de-skinned a guy’s arm when he put his hand in to take photo with a underwater camera. We plan to move to the east side of Trimoullie Island tomorrow which is said to be beautiful.

Add a comment

Day 13: Great Sandy to Chartreuse Bay, Alpha Island (Montebello Islands)

Date:May 21, 2016, 4 a.m.
Our position:20 26.22 S, 115 34.80 E

Entry to Monte’s via South Channel between Dot and Daisy Islands
21 May 16; as we have streamlined our start up (kettle on, mainsail up and anchor pulled) to 10 minutes the alarm buzzed us awake at 3.50am. We were under sail by 4am, pouring cuppas and plotting our trek to the Monte’s…then convinced Ted had it all in control I left my cuppa to cool and I crawled straight back into the bunk. I know “soft sailor” but there was no point 2 of us staring out into the blackness. I woke in time to see the sunrise along with Barrow Island and its massive infrastructure come into view. After breaky Ted took his turn to shut eyes and I sat in the cabin watching a movie while keeping an eye out to avoid big ships and gas platforms. At 11 as we were passing Barrow I checked our plotted course and realised we would be tracking through the restricted area of Varcidious Port. I pondered this for about 20 min and then decided to wake Ted to confirm a change of course was needed asap (adjust 10 degrees) so we would skirt the edge. At this point I discovered our naughty skipper had fully intended to cut across the area and we of course had to discuss this further ? ...I (a rule follower) could not ignore the very clear instructions on the map so Ted radioed Frank for back up only to find wise skipper Frank had plotted his track around the area in question. It was then Ted’s turn to ponder our next move as he could not stand the thought of adding another 7nm to our journey. About 20 min later…after much brain activity he decided to radio the Port Authority and request permission to pass through. A great idea as permission was granted as long as we stayed 500m clear of the gas platforms…also a great compromise that ensured no blood was spilt on boat. The rest of the trip went without event with gentle seas, winds and our motors pushing us towards the Monte’s arriving at lunch time. Don off Escapee, a long time visitor to the islands, was waiting to escort us in. So in convoy with Don the lead, us piggy in the middle and Frank and Roz at the rear we navigated on a rapidly outgoing tide into Chartreuse Bay through the various reefs and shallows of the islands. This bay offered us wicked protection from a strong evening southerly…and after we were all wined and dined aboard The Endless Dream we returned to boat for a restful and much anticipated rock-less sleep.

Add a comment

Day 12: Large Island to Great Sandy Island

Date:May 20, 2016, 9:20 a.m.
Our position:21 11.82 S, 115 38.58 E

20 May 16; with the wind blowing us one way and a ripping tide taking us the other we had us a rock’n night. Luckily we didn’t need to travel far (14nm) for the day so we took the opportunity to sleep in and have a morning cook up. A 13knt SSE wind gave us a nice little push off but only lasted about an hour as the day glassed off again. We arrived at Great Sandy at 11.45 to a beaut calm bay and put our pick down on the NE side as the weather report indicated a strong SW wind for the evening. We were welcomed by a school of Golden Trevally’s buzzing up and down the boat so my new rod got christened as one eager fish took the popper right at the back. I managed to land him (just) take a snap and send him back into the sea like we have for most fish caught. As we only ever need 1 for tea but both still want to fish we are finding all sorts of reasons for their freedom…too big, too small, too slimy, not yummy…or I feel like lamb tonight? With 1 bar on the phone I managed to google an octopus recipe (yesterday’s catch) and started its prep. I boiled them in red wine and balsamic for 20 min and then marinated in sauce (sweet chilli, soy and tomato). Whilst our chargrilled octopus was very tasty it was definitely the grossest meat I have ever touched. With an arvo to kill we scooted the island in the dingy and Ted went for a dive. So with a couple of Painted Crayfish and a coral trout we were back on the boat googling a recipe for pickled Cray. Needless to say we had a bountiful ocean tea, shared with Frank & Roz (The Endless Dream) who had sailed in that arvo from Onslow. With a surprising 2 bars on the phone we managed to wish happy birthday and cheerio to Vic who was to leave soon for her Kokoda trek...great to talk as 2 weeks in we are beginning to miss everyone. It was an early night as an early 4am start the next day…we have 47nm to get to Monte’s and need to make it there for the incoming tide.

Add a comment

Day 11: Onslow to Large Island

Date:May 19, 2016, 5 a.m.
Our position:21 17.92 S, 115 29.96 E

19 May 16; we had to keep pinching ourselves to make sure this amazing day was real. The ocean was like glass reflecting a sky full of fluffy white clouds and the only ripples across the water were being made by us. We didn’t even put up a token sail as we steamed trough Mangrove Passage taking in the view, dodging reefs, cyclone moorings and the various cargo barges scattered throughout the passage. The surrounding islands and reef must make for safe parking in a cyclone as in one spot we counted10 barges. It felt like this perfect day was put on just for us as we didn’t see anyone else out on the water. We arrived at Large Island (yep its true name) at 1.30 and I think someone may have been boasting as it looked tiny. Our arvo was a mellow one as we sat on the back step fishing and feeling very spoilt to be in this magical place. Ted had visited here before and said everything would look different when the tide went out…and it did. The islands all grew in size as the surrounding reefs became exposed and we set off to explore for the rest of the arvo. The rock pools were full of life and we were lucky enough to catch some baby octopi for tea. I know I say this every day but I am very sure today had the best sunset ever!!!

1 Comments:

Mum: Keep up the great updates and photos - looks awesome xxxx May 20, 2016, 5:54 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 10: Surrurier to Onslow

Date:May 18, 2016, 4 a.m.
Our position:21 38.01 S, 115 5.06 E

18 May 16; with the sun rising over the island we set off eastwards to Onslow. We had a little bit of breeze to start with and managed a comfortable 6knt but alas…like the last couple of days the wind died off early and we needed to motor most of the way. Seems crazy for us to not be looking forward to these “glass off” days but we could definitely do with a little more huff’n puff to get to the Monte’s quicker. It was an interesting track across ocean as we navigated through heaps of sea mushrooms (old gas well heads) and past the gas and salt mines that sit along the coast. We put our pick down just in front of boat ramp Beadon Bay at lunch time and headed into town with Frank and Roz for a pub lunch and a look around town. We were back on boat by 3 after walking off a side splitting lunch and picking up a few supplies. I pulled my chalks out to start a picture while Ted nana napped…I am finding it a little challenging to draw with the boat moving so the end result may not be keep worthy?? We got to have some good ole Cvon company as Waz Kempton joined us for a sundowner or too. We leave Frank a Roz to catch up with Onslow family tomorrow while we head off to the explore Mangrove Passage on our way up to the Mary Anne group of islands.

Add a comment

Day 9: Tent Island to Surrurier Island

Date:May 17, 2016, 9 a.m.
Our position:21 37.35 S, 114 41.19 E

17 May 16; a relaxing 8am start…no rushing as we had to retrieve from Wilderness a cooler bag that had jumped out of the vehicle on our way back to the dingy. It was another spectacular day on the ocean but unfortunately better suited to the power boat variety. What little we had in wind couldn’t keep the spinnaker filled so motor along we did…a slow trip across the gulf but a relaxing one. We didn’t get to the west side of Surrurier until 5 but it was definitely worth the wait as it is OMG beautiful. I had the paddle board off the front and ready to go before Ted had shut off the motors. The water was crystal clear, the shallow reef full of tropical fish and the beach long and white. We had a wicked afternoon exploring the bay and chilled to a WOW sunset and wine. Off to Onslow next!

Add a comment

Day 8: Exmouth to Tent Island (Wilderness Island)

Date:May 16, 2016, 2:15 a.m.
Our position:22 5.54 S, 114 31.27 E

16 May 16; an early 6.15 morning push off “literally” for us to get out of the marina as a 16knt southerly wind was holding us tight against the jetty. We needed a quick discussion on our exit strategy as Ted thought to put me at helm while he stood on the jetty and shoved us off…I thought no bloody way was that going to happen!!!! Firstly…we had a very beautiful boat snug in behind us and I did not want to accidently hit it. Secondly… I pictured Ted being left on jetty and me driving around in circles while we figured out how to get him back on board. It was agreed the best option was for me to push us off at least that way Ted could come back and pick me up if I didn’t make the jump aboard. I made the jump and we watched the sun rise as we steamed out the leads. We had a bit of rock’n roll to start with but ended up having a great sail and made it to the island (21 nm) in 3 1/2 hrs. We arrived to a delicious scone morning tea with Roz and Frank and then headed out to trawl with my new rod. Whilst no fish chose to jump on my line it was beautiful out on the water with the marine life and we were lucky enough to get up close to a very mellow dugong. Jim and Kim from Wilderness Island graciously invited us boaties to join them and their guests for a wood fire pizza tea so at 4 we tidied ourselves up and rode the dinghy in. Jim picked us up in the wilderness limo…Suzuki without doors and cool little trailer and escorted us up to the main camp. An really awesome place with a spectacular view across the Gulf…a huge thanks to Jim and Kim who put on a great night, we will definitely be back!! To check out this island go to www.wildernessisland.holiday.

Add a comment

Day 7: Exmouth Marina

Date:May 15, 2016, 7:52 a.m.
Our position:21 57.37 S, 114 8.44 E

15 May 16; RECOVERY DAY! No sailing... just yummy food, catch ups and good company.

Add a comment

Day 6: Tantabiddi to Exmouth Marina

Date:May 14, 2016, 3 a.m.
Our position:21 48.10 S, 114 3.92 E

Wicked calm night and even though we were parked up on the edge of the channel we barely felt a ripple. The morning sunrise was glorious as we steamed out and with minimal swell we were able to hug the back of the reef as we headed north to the tip of the Cape. Rounding the top and then heading south to Exmouth we packed the sails away as the wind was right on our nose. We steamed into the Marina at 11 and despite my usual parking panic we found an easy berth alongside the little T-Jetty. Teeka and Dec joined us and Ted promptly grabbed the keys and took off in the car to grab a surprise??? The sneaky bugger had planned a pressie for me when we were last in Exmouth and it needed picking up before 12. I am now the proud owner of my own custom made fishing rod…it so cool, it’s super light, in my fav colour and is labelled “Tina’s Stick”. I can’t wait to have a go!! The kids joined us for lunch before we packed our fancy clothes and headed to the hotel to get ready for Luke and Sara’s wedding at 3. With a shower, shave and ironed clothes we were ready to party and party we did. It was an awesome wedding, the new Mr & Mrs looked stunning, they had a fat time and the Cvon crew celebrated like only Cvon crew can. We had an interesting trip back to the boat and are very grateful for the lift home by Julie, Ilda and Dave as I would hate to think what might have happened if we walked back over the bridge… as it was I accidently knocked some dudes wheel barrow off the jetty and into the water (since rescued, rinsed and returned) and we all nearly fell in laughing. We have booked to stay 2 nights so we can recover, shop and chill with crew.

Add a comment

Day 5: Yardie Creek to Tantabiddi

Date:May 13, 2016, 4 a.m.
Our position:21 53.95 S, 113 58.76 E

13 May 16; pushed out early again today…despite my great dislike for these early starts the little bit of wind up for grabs is only showing it’s self in the mornings. The weather has been absolutely dreamy and if we weren’t trying to get our butts up north we would be chilling on one of the stunning beaches we have passed. We managed a steady 5 knot pace for the morning with it so gentle on the water I managed to give Ted a haircut without taking out his ears ?. There was boat traffic everywhere so we needed to keep constant eye looking forward...we enjoyed several cuppa’s sitting at the bow watching the world go by. The whale shark tours must be up and running as the spotter plane was buzzing around too. Fingers crossed we get the opportunity to jump overboard and dive with one soon. We got into Tantabiddi at lunch time so had a lovey arvo to chill, paddle board, call the kids and make a prawn curry for tea. We plan to head around Norwest Cape early to catch up with Teeka and Dec before the wedding… can’t wait to see Luke and Sara tie the knot and celebrate with Cvon crew!

Add a comment

Day 4: Pt. Cloates to Yardie Creek

Date:May 12, 2016, 5:15 a.m.
Our position:22 21.40 S, 113 44.90 E

12 May 16; it was a 6am start for us this morning as we had over 30 nm to cover to Yardie Creek. With coffee in hand I watched the sun peak over the Pt. Cloates lighthouse as we navigated out through the gap in the reef being pushed along by a mellow tail wind. We were blessed with another beautiful sunny day but unfortunately the wind swung early and for most part we needed to push into a north easterly wind. This kept our minds on the job as we “tick-tacked” northwards trying to keep at least 30 degrees on either side of the nose as we made our way windward. Activities at sail included vacuuming and washing the floors, reading and defrosting tea as we were having a fish free night. Whilst not the most exciting of activities I did manage to liven things up by accidently turning off our instruments and auto pilot with my overzealous vacuuming of the boat switch board. Skipper Ted may have had a little moment as we struggled to get the GPS to reconnect and he thought of navigating by compass for the next couple of months. It was a bit rock’n roll’n out deep so we brought our tack closer to the coast to avoid the fetch and with us then chugging along at 5knts we chucked the lure back in. One huge Tuna (set free) later I couldn’t lift my arms, feel my fingers and was already looking forward to an early night. After dodging the bommies in boat passage we were anchored up just south of Yardie Creek by 1.15pm ready for lunch and a nana nap. We set off in the dingy around 4pm to re-explore Yardie George and found it to be as beautiful as our previous visit 25 years ago… however we reminisced like oldies of the times before rules as the no swimming, no boating and no loud noise just left us with a walk. We finished off a wicked day with a beach swim, a sundowner and a yummy chicken roast.

Add a comment

Day 3: Pt. Maud to Pt. Cloates

Date:May 11, 2016, 1 a.m.
Our position:22 46.76 S, 113 45.87 E

11 May 16; Hooray today I got to sleep into 7.30. After fronting up to the helm yesterday 6am glassy eyed, pants inside out and boots on opposite feet to drive Ted agreed a later start was a good option…plus with a short sail and cruisy day planned there was no need to rush. As promised Ted pumped up paddle board and with glee I jumped out of bed, chucked on bathers only to find a 15knt wind blowing that would have me to the outer reef before he could pull anchor ? I settled with a cooked breakfast and hot coffee.
With seamanship rule in mind “if have safety thought then act on it” we set sail north through the inner reef passage with only a headsail out, a motor on and me up front as the spotter. Navigating Stanley Pool and Chabjuwardoo Bay toward Pt. Cloates we had our 1st butt clench moment when a massive bombie appeared suddenly at the bow…we also realised the error of choosing me, Blind Betty, to be spotter. Thankfully quick evasive action by Skipper Ted ensures we are afloat to sail another day. We arrived at Crayfish Reef south Pt. Cloates at 9am and with the pick secure we set ashore with Frank and Roz for 1st land walk in 3 days and a chilly swim. The day’s weather got better and better and by adding a long nanna nap, arvo beach stroll and beautiful sunset it just became my new favourite day.

1 Comments:

Tina Godden: Photo 1: Frank and Roz, Photo 4: Saw my first Nudibranch in action May 14, 2016, 12:42 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 2: Red Bluff to Pt Maud

Date:May 10, 2016, 9:14 a.m.
Our position:23 2.21 S, 113 49.18 E

10 th May 2016; Another early start for us as we sailed out of the Bluff in the dark. We were sad to leave but needed to get going if we wanted to reach Coral Bay by sundowner time. The morning winds had us flying along nicely with an adverage 9 Knts as we chased Frank and Roz down in The Endless Dream. Winds dropped off around lunch time and we were back to trauling speed. Teds turn to fish and he pulled in a nice tuna for Roz to make her yummy fish stew. We bypassed Coral Bay for anchorage at Maud's Landing. Haven't been here before it's a huge bay and looked specy with a arvo glass off. Paddle board not unpacked yet so missed a quick tour around...definitely unpack for tomorrow. It was a 11 hour trip so early night for us.

2 Comments:

Tina Godden: Arrival beer with Don on Escapee May 11, 2016, 12:08 a.m.


Barb: Wonderful. After our sail up from shark bay it's so nice to visualise you sailing off into the blue. May 11, 2016, 1:52 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 1: Carnarvon to Red Bluff, On the pick

Date:May 9, 2016, 9 a.m.
Our position:24 1.87 S, 113 26.62 E

9th May 16, we are finally off, out the leads and heading North on the 1st day of our 2 month adventure. Very glad to be heading North as this morning was bloody freezing. We dug through our luggage quickly to find the uggs and beanie we had thrown in as a last minute thought yesterday. The weather report has strong winds north so with a double reefed mainsail we turned right at the last chanel marker and set off towards Cape Cuvier. It ended up being a awesome day sail with mod winds the whole way and no swell. We had huge pod of dolphins race us south of Point Quobba as they came to us either side from miles away...totally wicked!! We then buzzed by the Blowholes and toasted the old shack with our cuppa's as she maybe demolished before our return :( Once we rounded the Point it was time to put the lure in as it was finally warm enough to get out of our woollies. Thank you Toni Hib, Ted's new birthday lure got a immediate hit and I landed the fish of my life. It ran like no tomorrow and as Ted slowed the boat I just held on for dear life. I was totally knackered by end of fight but my mackeral was 1300 long and too big for me to lift to get a photo...now need to look up 101 ways to cook fish. The day was so nice we sailed right past Cuvier and got to the Bluff at around 5pm. Ted and I have been sitting at Red Bluff for many years dreaming of one day sailing in so it was a very special mo and made even better with a visit from Bluff crew and a spectacular sunset. No surprises....it was fish for tea for all.

1 Comments:

Tina Godden: Bluff crew arrival party May 11, 2016, 12:09 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 1: On the move

Date:May 9, 2016, 3 a.m.
Our position:24 32.26 S, 113 23.90 E

11 am, we buzzed the Blowholes

1 Comments:

Tina Godden: Dolphins racing us to the Blows May 11, 2016, 12:10 a.m.

Add a comment

Day 1: Ready-Set-Go

Date:May 8, 2016, 10 p.m.
Our position:24 54.32 S, 113 37.93 E

Leaving Carnarvon

Add a comment