Sunday 29th August
It rained all night and is still raining. There is a strong wind warning for coastal waters from Cardwell to Bowen with 20-30 knot SE winds and 3 m seas, so we aren't going anywhere.
I set out in the rain to check the crab traps and this time we had better luck, 2 crabs in one trap (one undersized) and a fish which didn't look too inviting in the other. So finally it looks like a feed of mud crab. The traps went back out to see if we can get another.
Another check of the traps in the afternoon yielded another 2 crabs, unfortunately both female (one undersize), so they had to go back. I reset them in the hope we may get some more overnight.
It rained heavily for the rest of the afternoon and evening, the wind still blowing 20 knots + but we are in a very sheltered anchorage.
Monday 30th August
First task is to bail out the dinghy which has about 6 inches of water in it, and then it is off to check if we have any crabs. Unfortunately both traps are empty, so I brought them back to the boat.
The weather forecast is still grim, strong wind warning SE 20- 30 knots. However it is expected to be a bit lighter early, so we decide to leave Hinchinbrook and head to Orpheus Island. Only about 10nm of open water, and 8 nm of relative shelter in the channel. Given our experience coming in and the leads taking us over a shoal, we decided to trust the chart plotter and plotted a course that ignored the leads, as we had 0.4m less tide than on the way in and about 0.5m a least in wave troughs that could have had us bouncing on the bottom on the leads.
It was very rough coming out the entrance but we stuck to our course and never had less than 1.2m under the keel. He open water was really chopped up by the wind and we had a pretty bouncy and uncomfortable trip to Orpheus where we anchored in Little Pioneer Bay. One of the other Coastal Cruising Club members Sub Zero was also there.
The strong winds persisted and it was a very rolly and uncomfortable night. If the wind drops early tomorrow we will make a run for Casement Bay on great Palm Island where the anchorage should be more comfortable. It rained most of the night.
The high point of the day was the mud crab omelette we had for dinner.
Hanse 400e
Monday, August 30, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A brief visit to Port Hinchinbrook
Saturday 28th August
At 9 am we pulled up the anchor and headed for Port Hinchinbrook marina. We went through the entrance channel about 30 minutes before full tide, so had the maximum benefit of the tide. To my surprise we had nothing under the keel as we entered the marina and only 0.2 m in some sections just before the entrance. When we got inside the depths improved but were only deep enough to accommodate low tide under the berths themselves. Black & Tan registered 1.7m total depth on the way in (they draw 1.6m) so we must have been dragging through the silt.
Anyway, we tied up in our berth, checked the high tides for the next few days (which were going to be lower than the tide today) and made the decision to turn around and go back out whilst we still had the benefit of the high tide, as the next reasonable tide wasn't until Wed 1st September. After some hasty farewells to Ross and Marj we headed back out and motored down to Reis Point where we had anchored on Thursday night.
If conditions improve, we will head out of the channel tomorrow morning and anchor at Orpheous Island. The forecast does not look encouraging, so we may be here for a few days.
We put the crab traps out again, this time hoping for better fortune. Fishing didn't yield anything useful.
At 9 am we pulled up the anchor and headed for Port Hinchinbrook marina. We went through the entrance channel about 30 minutes before full tide, so had the maximum benefit of the tide. To my surprise we had nothing under the keel as we entered the marina and only 0.2 m in some sections just before the entrance. When we got inside the depths improved but were only deep enough to accommodate low tide under the berths themselves. Black & Tan registered 1.7m total depth on the way in (they draw 1.6m) so we must have been dragging through the silt.
Anyway, we tied up in our berth, checked the high tides for the next few days (which were going to be lower than the tide today) and made the decision to turn around and go back out whilst we still had the benefit of the high tide, as the next reasonable tide wasn't until Wed 1st September. After some hasty farewells to Ross and Marj we headed back out and motored down to Reis Point where we had anchored on Thursday night.
The entrance to Port Hinchinbrook
If conditions improve, we will head out of the channel tomorrow morning and anchor at Orpheous Island. The forecast does not look encouraging, so we may be here for a few days.
Peaceful afternoon at Reis Point
We put the crab traps out again, this time hoping for better fortune. Fishing didn't yield anything useful.
North to Scraggy Point
Friday 27th August
Up early and out to check the crab traps, unfortunately they were empty except for a fish which had been caught in the netting ( not edible). Ross and Marj managed to get 2 crabs (one undersized) in their trap, so at least we know they are here. After breakfast we headed further north up the channel to Scraggy Point which is almost opposite Cardwell.
The weather continues to be a bit ordinary and when we set the anchor, there was a lot of roll at the anchorage and Ross & Marj were keen to see if we could get into the Port Hinchinbrook Marina which was on the mainland just opposite from our anchorage.
Getting a berth wasn't a problem, but I thought I would just check on the depth going in before we committed. Once we established it was 0.4m plus the tide, we weren't going anywhere as the high tide had past and neither of us would have got in.
Up early and out to check the crab traps, unfortunately they were empty except for a fish which had been caught in the netting ( not edible). Ross and Marj managed to get 2 crabs (one undersized) in their trap, so at least we know they are here. After breakfast we headed further north up the channel to Scraggy Point which is almost opposite Cardwell.
Angel Wings on the way to Scraggy Point
The weather continues to be a bit ordinary and when we set the anchor, there was a lot of roll at the anchorage and Ross & Marj were keen to see if we could get into the Port Hinchinbrook Marina which was on the mainland just opposite from our anchorage.
Instead we decided to go ashore, as this is one of the few places on Hinchinbrook Island where there is a sandy beach where you can go ashore. The rest of it is lined with dense mangroves. It was a rough ride in in the dinghies as the wind was well developed and the thought of going back out to the boat in it was not that enticing. However, we had a good look around, a chance to stretch our legs, and by the time we were ready to return the wind had eased, so the trip back wasn't as bad as expected.
The beach at Scraggy Point (the sign on the left is a warning about crocodiles)
Looks like termites have been attacking the loo
We decided we would go the the marina tomorrow and hire a car and have a look around as the weather forecast for the next few days is 20-30knots from the SE, not what we are looking for as we have decided to return South from here as the weather further north has been atrocious ever since we have been up here 25 knots is a quiet day.
We both booked in and had drinks on Black & Tan to discuss our plans.
The anchorage turned out to be very comfortable overnight with the wind dropping right out till early morning, so a good night's sleep was had by all.
Hinchinbrook Channel
Thursday 26th August
Little Pioneer Bay turned out to be an excellent anchorage well protected from the SE breeze. We pulled up anchor at 7 am to motor over to the entrance to Hinchinbrook Channel planning to get through the shallow entrance on the high tide. The southerly change was starting to build and had already reached 18 knots by the time we reached the sugar loading facility off Lucinda which protrudes almost 6 km out from the shore.
Despite going in on a full tide, at times we only had 0.7 m under the keel. Navigating the early part of the channel was marked by channel markers and was a bit of a convoluted path before you got to some clear water. The fishing must be good at high tide as there are tinnies everywhere, although we didn't see anyone land a fish.
We motored about 8nm up into the channel and anchored in a channel between Haycock Island and Reis point. To our surprise, Black & Tan was also anchored there so we reconnected with Ross and Marj over a cup of coffee and will catch up for drinks tonight on Mica.
Once we were settled we put out the crab traps and tried our luck at fishing. Only caught some undersized fish and nothing in the crab traps on last check.
Little Pioneer Bay turned out to be an excellent anchorage well protected from the SE breeze. We pulled up anchor at 7 am to motor over to the entrance to Hinchinbrook Channel planning to get through the shallow entrance on the high tide. The southerly change was starting to build and had already reached 18 knots by the time we reached the sugar loading facility off Lucinda which protrudes almost 6 km out from the shore.
A bit bleak leaving Little Pioneer Bay
Despite going in on a full tide, at times we only had 0.7 m under the keel. Navigating the early part of the channel was marked by channel markers and was a bit of a convoluted path before you got to some clear water. The fishing must be good at high tide as there are tinnies everywhere, although we didn't see anyone land a fish.
We motored about 8nm up into the channel and anchored in a channel between Haycock Island and Reis point. To our surprise, Black & Tan was also anchored there so we reconnected with Ross and Marj over a cup of coffee and will catch up for drinks tonight on Mica.
Once we were settled we put out the crab traps and tried our luck at fishing. Only caught some undersized fish and nothing in the crab traps on last check.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Heading for the Palm Islands
Wednesday 25th August
We left the Magnetic Island Marina at 7 am, after a few enjoyable days, and a great spot to give Michelle & Cody a chance to see Magnetic Island from an onshore base.
Our destination is Orpheous Island, the most northern of the Palm Islands. There was little breeze, so it was a motor sail all the way, arriving at our anchorage in Little Pioneer Bay at around 2.30 pm.
We had a slight delay along the way when we hooked a sizeable spanish mackeral in Steamer Passage. As I finally got it close to the boat, it gave a final last minute surge, snapped the 40lb line and took off with the lure.
It is very still at the anchorage but we are expecting a 20-25 knot southerly change around daybreak.
Tomorrow we plan to go into the Hinchinbrook Channel (only around 11 nm from here) , hopefully before the full force of the change hits. We also need an early start to go though the southern entrance on the high tide.
We left the Magnetic Island Marina at 7 am, after a few enjoyable days, and a great spot to give Michelle & Cody a chance to see Magnetic Island from an onshore base.
Alma Bay on the east coast of Magnetic Island
Our destination is Orpheous Island, the most northern of the Palm Islands. There was little breeze, so it was a motor sail all the way, arriving at our anchorage in Little Pioneer Bay at around 2.30 pm.
We had a slight delay along the way when we hooked a sizeable spanish mackeral in Steamer Passage. As I finally got it close to the boat, it gave a final last minute surge, snapped the 40lb line and took off with the lure.
Havannah Island in the Palm Group
It is very still at the anchorage but we are expecting a 20-25 knot southerly change around daybreak.
Tomorrow we plan to go into the Hinchinbrook Channel (only around 11 nm from here) , hopefully before the full force of the change hits. We also need an early start to go though the southern entrance on the high tide.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Last Day at Magnetic Island
Tuesday 24th August
Today Michelle & Cody caught the 11.10am ferry to Townsville to give them time to catch their flight home. We are now back on our own, and will head further north tomorrow.
We decided it was time for another game of golf, so off we went to Magnetic Island Country Club, a nine hole course you basically go around twice. Last time I played this course ( a very long time ago), the greens were sand, and although they now have grass on them, it was so long since it had seen a mower, I think the sand greens were better.
Carole was not daunted by the lush grass on the greens and turned in a respectable 37 points, with Mike only managing 32 points. So she now moves to a 6 point lead in the Mica Cup.
For dinner we decided to try a French Restaurant in Nellie Bay, which had won many nawards for the best European restaurant on Magnetic Island ( not very highly contested I suspect). The food was very good, if not a bit on the expensive side.
Today Michelle & Cody caught the 11.10am ferry to Townsville to give them time to catch their flight home. We are now back on our own, and will head further north tomorrow.
Michelle & Cody about to catch the ferry
We decided it was time for another game of golf, so off we went to Magnetic Island Country Club, a nine hole course you basically go around twice. Last time I played this course ( a very long time ago), the greens were sand, and although they now have grass on them, it was so long since it had seen a mower, I think the sand greens were better.
Magnetic Island Country Club
Carole was not daunted by the lush grass on the greens and turned in a respectable 37 points, with Mike only managing 32 points. So she now moves to a 6 point lead in the Mica Cup.
For dinner we decided to try a French Restaurant in Nellie Bay, which had won many nawards for the best European restaurant on Magnetic Island ( not very highly contested I suspect). The food was very good, if not a bit on the expensive side.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Another Day at Magnetic
Monday 23rd August
Cooinda is departing this morning to do some snorkelling on the way around to Horseshoe Bay on the north of the island where they will anchor overnight, before turning south tomorrow to return to the Whitsundays. We will remain on the marina until Michelle and Cody leave and then plan to head north to the Palm Islands. We should catch up with Cooinda again in a few weeks back in the Whitsundays.
We decided to spend the day at Horseshoe Bay also and caught the mid morning bus around.
We were wandering around the beachfront and ran into Jurgen & Jill Chominsky, who were up for a holiday with their family and had rented an apartment on the beachfront. Jurgen is one of the regular Thursday sailing team in Sydney, so the team must be getting a bit thin at the moment.
Not long after, Rod, Lee and the team came ashore, having abandoned any thoughts of snorkelling off the boat on the east coast due to a lack of suitable anchorages. It must have been pretty bad, given some of the anchorages we have had so far.
Cody had a good time running around and playing in the sand. We had a picnic lunch, a beer or two with Jurgen, (Rod also knew Jurgen well from the old CSR days), and we eventually caught the 4pm bus back to Nellie Bay with the Cooinda team returning to their anchorage planning an early morning start tomorrow.
Dinner back on the boat was some spanish mackeral (which we had bought at Mr Mud Crab) and salad. Once again Cody was pretty worn out and didn't take long to fall asleep.
Cooinda is departing this morning to do some snorkelling on the way around to Horseshoe Bay on the north of the island where they will anchor overnight, before turning south tomorrow to return to the Whitsundays. We will remain on the marina until Michelle and Cody leave and then plan to head north to the Palm Islands. We should catch up with Cooinda again in a few weeks back in the Whitsundays.
We decided to spend the day at Horseshoe Bay also and caught the mid morning bus around.
We were wandering around the beachfront and ran into Jurgen & Jill Chominsky, who were up for a holiday with their family and had rented an apartment on the beachfront. Jurgen is one of the regular Thursday sailing team in Sydney, so the team must be getting a bit thin at the moment.
Not long after, Rod, Lee and the team came ashore, having abandoned any thoughts of snorkelling off the boat on the east coast due to a lack of suitable anchorages. It must have been pretty bad, given some of the anchorages we have had so far.
Rod, Mike & Jurgen at Horsehoe Bay
Cody had a good time running around and playing in the sand. We had a picnic lunch, a beer or two with Jurgen, (Rod also knew Jurgen well from the old CSR days), and we eventually caught the 4pm bus back to Nellie Bay with the Cooinda team returning to their anchorage planning an early morning start tomorrow.
Cody & Carole on the beach at Horseshoe Bay
A few locals trying to share our picnic
Dinner back on the boat was some spanish mackeral (which we had bought at Mr Mud Crab) and salad. Once again Cody was pretty worn out and didn't take long to fall asleep.
Back to Magnetic Island for a few days
Sunday 22nd August
Today we left the Townsville marina, at around 8am on the high tide, to return to Magnetic Island, to spend a few days at the marina there with Michelle & Cody. Cooinda were not far behind.
The trip only took an hour of motoring but the breeze was a bit more developed than forecast, so it was a bit bouncy on the way across, but not enough to make anyone sick.
After everyone was settled in to the marina we thought we would hire a couple of Mokes and tour the Island. Despite a number of hire car companies on the Island, every vehicle of any type was booked for the day, as people from Townsville flooded in on each ferry for the day. Plan B was to catch the Island bus service to Picnic Bay. Whilst we were waiting a maxi cab turned up at the rank near the bus stop, so we took it instead. We packed up some sausages and bread etc and planned to have a BBQ lunch at Picnic Bay.
We found a BBQ near the beach and settled in, had our BBQ and a walk around the beach. It also gave Cody plenty of space to run around. The BBQ and picnic facilities on the Island are excellent and spotlessly clean.
Later on we returned to the boat for a bit of a rest before dinner. Cody had a good sleep, having worn himself out running around at the beach.
Tonight we caught the bus to Arcadia to have dinner at the Tavern. It had a heavy backpacker presence, so the facilities were a bit basic, but food was well priced and filling.
Today we left the Townsville marina, at around 8am on the high tide, to return to Magnetic Island, to spend a few days at the marina there with Michelle & Cody. Cooinda were not far behind.
The trip only took an hour of motoring but the breeze was a bit more developed than forecast, so it was a bit bouncy on the way across, but not enough to make anyone sick.
After everyone was settled in to the marina we thought we would hire a couple of Mokes and tour the Island. Despite a number of hire car companies on the Island, every vehicle of any type was booked for the day, as people from Townsville flooded in on each ferry for the day. Plan B was to catch the Island bus service to Picnic Bay. Whilst we were waiting a maxi cab turned up at the rank near the bus stop, so we took it instead. We packed up some sausages and bread etc and planned to have a BBQ lunch at Picnic Bay.
Cody, Michelle & Rod at Picnic Bay
We found a BBQ near the beach and settled in, had our BBQ and a walk around the beach. It also gave Cody plenty of space to run around. The BBQ and picnic facilities on the Island are excellent and spotlessly clean.
Sausage sizzle at Picnic Bay
Later on we returned to the boat for a bit of a rest before dinner. Cody had a good sleep, having worn himself out running around at the beach.
Tonight we caught the bus to Arcadia to have dinner at the Tavern. It had a heavy backpacker presence, so the facilities were a bit basic, but food was well priced and filling.
A big day in Townsville
Saturday 21st August
Today we had to do a big shop at Woolworths to top up our supplies. As we don't have a car we decided we would share a maxi cab with Rod & Lee to bring all of our purchases back to the boats.
Belinda and Dean arrived just after 11 am, and our next priority was to go and vote. All of the interstate voting was at the Commonwealth Centre a fair walk from the marina. When we found it there was a huge crowd waiting to cast their vote and we waited for about an hour before we got our chance to vote. Cody was pretty unimpressed with the boredom of it all.
When we finally completed our voting we walked back through town to find somewhere to have lunch. We ended up at a pub on the river bank called Monsoons, where the food turned out to be surprisingly good. The calamari was right up there with the best we have had on our trip so far.
To walk off lunch we walked down along the Strand (a beachfront area near the marina which goes for kms and has great parks, restaurants and importantly for Cody, a water park). In no time Cody had his shirt off and was running around the water park with all of the other kids).
We decided we would have a seafood feast on Mica for dinner, so we headed off in search of a seafood retailer, not as easy as it sounds. Finally we ended up at a shop called “Mr Mud Crab” about 2.5 km from our marina. By the time we had purchased our selection ( oysters, prawns, mud crabs and some fish), we ended up with a polystyrene container filled with ice and seafood. The only problem was that we had to carry it back to the boat. Rod & I took turns to lug the package home.
The subsequent dinner made it all worthwhile. In between which we had the occasional look at the TV to see how the election results were panning out.
Today we had to do a big shop at Woolworths to top up our supplies. As we don't have a car we decided we would share a maxi cab with Rod & Lee to bring all of our purchases back to the boats.
Belinda and Dean arrived just after 11 am, and our next priority was to go and vote. All of the interstate voting was at the Commonwealth Centre a fair walk from the marina. When we found it there was a huge crowd waiting to cast their vote and we waited for about an hour before we got our chance to vote. Cody was pretty unimpressed with the boredom of it all.
When we finally completed our voting we walked back through town to find somewhere to have lunch. We ended up at a pub on the river bank called Monsoons, where the food turned out to be surprisingly good. The calamari was right up there with the best we have had on our trip so far.
Calamari at Monsoons
To walk off lunch we walked down along the Strand (a beachfront area near the marina which goes for kms and has great parks, restaurants and importantly for Cody, a water park). In no time Cody had his shirt off and was running around the water park with all of the other kids).
Cody on the water gun
Cody getting seriously wet at the water park
We decided we would have a seafood feast on Mica for dinner, so we headed off in search of a seafood retailer, not as easy as it sounds. Finally we ended up at a shop called “Mr Mud Crab” about 2.5 km from our marina. By the time we had purchased our selection ( oysters, prawns, mud crabs and some fish), we ended up with a polystyrene container filled with ice and seafood. The only problem was that we had to carry it back to the boat. Rod & I took turns to lug the package home.
The subsequent dinner made it all worthwhile. In between which we had the occasional look at the TV to see how the election results were panning out.
First course of our seafood extravaganza
Belinda attacking the next course
Michelle with the improvised claw cracker
Michelle & Cody Arrive
Friday 20th August
Michelle and Cody arrived late in the morning and settled in quickly. Rod and I had taken up an offer from Haydn to drive us to Dan Murphy's so we could stock up on beer, wine and bottled water and have a means of getting it back to the boat. We have been going through a lot of bottled water after filling up at Hamilton Island and finding the water so dosed with iodine that it is almost undrinkable. Hopefully a refill at Townsville will dilute it enough.
At 1pm Haydn picked Rod and I up to head for Townsville Golf Club for our game of golf. We had an enjoyable, but slow round, ending up only playing 16 holes, as we had to get back to the marina to have a shower and then all of us were invited to Hilda and Haydn's place for a BBQ dinner.
Cody was very tired as he hadn't slept all day, so kept us on our toes most of the time. Nevertheless we had a most enjoyable night out, and a great meal.
Michelle and Cody arrived late in the morning and settled in quickly. Rod and I had taken up an offer from Haydn to drive us to Dan Murphy's so we could stock up on beer, wine and bottled water and have a means of getting it back to the boat. We have been going through a lot of bottled water after filling up at Hamilton Island and finding the water so dosed with iodine that it is almost undrinkable. Hopefully a refill at Townsville will dilute it enough.
Cody settled in quickly
At 1pm Haydn picked Rod and I up to head for Townsville Golf Club for our game of golf. We had an enjoyable, but slow round, ending up only playing 16 holes, as we had to get back to the marina to have a shower and then all of us were invited to Hilda and Haydn's place for a BBQ dinner.
Mike & Haydn at Townsville Golf Club
Cody was very tired as he hadn't slept all day, so kept us on our toes most of the time. Nevertheless we had a most enjoyable night out, and a great meal.
Dinner at Hilda & Haydn's house
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Early start for Townsville
Thursday 19th August
Up bright and early at 6 am we headed off to Townsville at the top of the high tide. It was only an hours trip motoring and even at close to the top of the tide there was only 0.8m underneath the keel in the shallow section just before the marina entrance.
We were secure in our berth at around 7.30am, had breakfast and then formally booked in at the marina office.
After the customary visit to the laundry, topping up the fuel etc we went for a walk into town with Rod & Lee. Lee spotted a great deal for lunch at a local hotel, king prawns, salad and a glass of wine or a beer for $13.50. We all had the special which was great.
Rod had made contact with some old friends of both of us (Haydn and Hilda Delaney), from the days we lived in Melbourne, who now live in Townsville, They were invited down to the marina for drinks and dinner on Cooinda tonight.
It was great to catch up with Haydn and Hilda and as Haydn was our golfing partner in Melbourne years ago, it was quickly decided to play golf at his golf club in Townsville tomorrow. Rod hasn't played for years, but was up to the challenge.
Hilda and Haydn turned up at 6pm and we ended up ordering some Thai takeaway for dinner and eating on Cooinda.
Tomorrow Michelle and Cody arrive to spend a few days with us. On Saturday, Rod & Lee's daughter, Belinda and her partner also arrive so the group will expand considerably.
Up bright and early at 6 am we headed off to Townsville at the top of the high tide. It was only an hours trip motoring and even at close to the top of the tide there was only 0.8m underneath the keel in the shallow section just before the marina entrance.
We were secure in our berth at around 7.30am, had breakfast and then formally booked in at the marina office.
After the customary visit to the laundry, topping up the fuel etc we went for a walk into town with Rod & Lee. Lee spotted a great deal for lunch at a local hotel, king prawns, salad and a glass of wine or a beer for $13.50. We all had the special which was great.
Prawns for Lunch
Rod had made contact with some old friends of both of us (Haydn and Hilda Delaney), from the days we lived in Melbourne, who now live in Townsville, They were invited down to the marina for drinks and dinner on Cooinda tonight.
It was great to catch up with Haydn and Hilda and as Haydn was our golfing partner in Melbourne years ago, it was quickly decided to play golf at his golf club in Townsville tomorrow. Rod hasn't played for years, but was up to the challenge.
Hilda and Haydn turned up at 6pm and we ended up ordering some Thai takeaway for dinner and eating on Cooinda.
Tomorrow Michelle and Cody arrive to spend a few days with us. On Saturday, Rod & Lee's daughter, Belinda and her partner also arrive so the group will expand considerably.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
A restful break on Magnetic Island
Wednesday 18th August
Today is Carole's Birthday. We need a rest from rolling anchorages, so I called Magnetic Island Marina (only about 8 nm away) to see if we could get a berth for the night. They were hardly busy and in no time I had booked a berth for Cooinda and ourselves and preparations were made to get the anchor up and motor over to Nelly Bay, where the marina is located.
Just before we left, Amazon headed off towing his recovered dinghy.
We arrived around 10.30 am, could select any berth we wanted as the marina was less that half full, and we were very pleasantly surprised at the quality of the facility. It is located on the waterline of a Peppers Resort and not far from the Townsville / Magnetic Island ferry terminal. There was an IGA supermarket close by and a number of eating options. Other shopping was only about 1 km away on the road to Picnic Bay. We did a bit of shopping at the supermarket, booked in to the restaurant for dinner, to celebrate Carole's birthday, and wandered down the street to the 'main' shopping area. We had a light lunch, went to the fishing gear shop to replace some tackle and walked back to the marina.
As we had all afternoon to occupy, we decided to catch a bus to Horsehoe Bay on the north of the island. The bus ride was exciting to say the least. I think the driver was a retired formula one driver.
Horseshoe Bay represents the only viable overnight anchorage as an alternative to the marina. There were lots of yachts anchored and on moorings in a very scenic bay, with a nice beach. The anchorage would roll a bit under the conditionbs we had experience over the previous few days, but probably would be more comfortable. The beachfront is lined with shops, restaurants and a tavern, and it was very busy.
After a good walk around and a beer at the tavern, we caught the bus back to Nelly Bay. It was packed and some passengers trying to catch it down the track had to be left behind for the next bus, as there was no room.
After a brief rest, we showered, had champagne and nibbles on Mica and headed off to the restaurant (about 50 yards) for a most enjoyable dinner.
We didn't party on as the plan is to get up early and leave the marina at 6 am to motor to Townsville, as we need to go in on a high tide due to a very shallow entrance < 1m LWS.
Overall we were very impressed with Magnetic Island and will return there before heading south.
Today is Carole's Birthday. We need a rest from rolling anchorages, so I called Magnetic Island Marina (only about 8 nm away) to see if we could get a berth for the night. They were hardly busy and in no time I had booked a berth for Cooinda and ourselves and preparations were made to get the anchor up and motor over to Nelly Bay, where the marina is located.
Just before we left, Amazon headed off towing his recovered dinghy.
Amazon with recovered dinghy leaving Cape Cleveland
We arrived around 10.30 am, could select any berth we wanted as the marina was less that half full, and we were very pleasantly surprised at the quality of the facility. It is located on the waterline of a Peppers Resort and not far from the Townsville / Magnetic Island ferry terminal. There was an IGA supermarket close by and a number of eating options. Other shopping was only about 1 km away on the road to Picnic Bay. We did a bit of shopping at the supermarket, booked in to the restaurant for dinner, to celebrate Carole's birthday, and wandered down the street to the 'main' shopping area. We had a light lunch, went to the fishing gear shop to replace some tackle and walked back to the marina.
As we had all afternoon to occupy, we decided to catch a bus to Horsehoe Bay on the north of the island. The bus ride was exciting to say the least. I think the driver was a retired formula one driver.
Horseshoe Bay represents the only viable overnight anchorage as an alternative to the marina. There were lots of yachts anchored and on moorings in a very scenic bay, with a nice beach. The anchorage would roll a bit under the conditionbs we had experience over the previous few days, but probably would be more comfortable. The beachfront is lined with shops, restaurants and a tavern, and it was very busy.
Carole, Rod & Lee at Horsehoe Bay
Yachts anchored at Horsehoe Bay
After a good walk around and a beer at the tavern, we caught the bus back to Nelly Bay. It was packed and some passengers trying to catch it down the track had to be left behind for the next bus, as there was no room.
After a brief rest, we showered, had champagne and nibbles on Mica and headed off to the restaurant (about 50 yards) for a most enjoyable dinner.
We didn't party on as the plan is to get up early and leave the marina at 6 am to motor to Townsville, as we need to go in on a high tide due to a very shallow entrance < 1m LWS.
Overall we were very impressed with Magnetic Island and will return there before heading south.
Another Restless Night
Tuesday 17th August
After a less than comfortable night we set out to go further north at 8 am, planning to anchor overnight behind Cape Bowling Green. We set out in 20 knots + SE breeze with a reef in the mainsail, and we comfortably averaging 7 knots in a bumpy sea.
We gradually overtook Cooinda and arrived at Cape Bowling Green well ahead of them.
As we approached (at a bit after 2 pm),we were pretty unimpressed, as Cape Bowling Green is basically a large sand spit and the suggested anchorage is “protected” by a sand spit a couple of feet above sea level. The bay is very shallow and visibility in the water poor as it was quite murky. The only attractive thing about it was were saw 2 whales frolicking just off the Cape.
There was only one yacht anchored there when we arrived, and he was anchored on the ocean side right at the tip of the spit about 6 metres from the sand, obviously hoping the wind direction didn't change. It was still blowing around 20 knots and we decided not to stop there and continue on to Cape Cleveland. Cooinda had not yet turned in to approach Cape Bowling Green so continued on. It was an extra 20 nm but we would still get there before sunset and at least it looked like a secure anchorage but not the most comfortable you could find.
As we were approaching Cape Cleveland we received a call on the radio from another yacht “Amazon” who was most upset because he had lost his 3.6 m aluminium dinghy coming up the coast a few mile south of the Cape. As he could see us passing through the area where he thought he had lost it he asked us to keep a lookout. It seems that in the rough seas the towing ring had pullued out of the front of the dinghy.
We did not see the dinghy but did see Amazon sailing south looking for it. It a was about a 30 ft yacht being sailed single handed by an older guy and had so much stuff tied to the rails it was hard to see on board.
Rounding Cape Cleveland
We arrived at our anchorage at around 5.30pm, only to find it was so shallow, we ended up anchoring well out from the coast in a very rolling sea. The boat rolled and pitched all night. Carole found a reference in our cruising guide placed under a photograph not in the main text which described it as “survivable, if not pleasant”.
Later that evening Amazon appeared towing his dinghy. How he recovered it and towed it all the way back in the conditions is anyones guess. A little later the Coastguard arrived with a searchlight trying to locate him to ensure everything was OK.
Once again it was not a good night for sleep.
After a less than comfortable night we set out to go further north at 8 am, planning to anchor overnight behind Cape Bowling Green. We set out in 20 knots + SE breeze with a reef in the mainsail, and we comfortably averaging 7 knots in a bumpy sea.
We gradually overtook Cooinda and arrived at Cape Bowling Green well ahead of them.
As we approached (at a bit after 2 pm),we were pretty unimpressed, as Cape Bowling Green is basically a large sand spit and the suggested anchorage is “protected” by a sand spit a couple of feet above sea level. The bay is very shallow and visibility in the water poor as it was quite murky. The only attractive thing about it was were saw 2 whales frolicking just off the Cape.
There was only one yacht anchored there when we arrived, and he was anchored on the ocean side right at the tip of the spit about 6 metres from the sand, obviously hoping the wind direction didn't change. It was still blowing around 20 knots and we decided not to stop there and continue on to Cape Cleveland. Cooinda had not yet turned in to approach Cape Bowling Green so continued on. It was an extra 20 nm but we would still get there before sunset and at least it looked like a secure anchorage but not the most comfortable you could find.
As we were approaching Cape Cleveland we received a call on the radio from another yacht “Amazon” who was most upset because he had lost his 3.6 m aluminium dinghy coming up the coast a few mile south of the Cape. As he could see us passing through the area where he thought he had lost it he asked us to keep a lookout. It seems that in the rough seas the towing ring had pullued out of the front of the dinghy.
We did not see the dinghy but did see Amazon sailing south looking for it. It a was about a 30 ft yacht being sailed single handed by an older guy and had so much stuff tied to the rails it was hard to see on board.
We arrived at our anchorage at around 5.30pm, only to find it was so shallow, we ended up anchoring well out from the coast in a very rolling sea. The boat rolled and pitched all night. Carole found a reference in our cruising guide placed under a photograph not in the main text which described it as “survivable, if not pleasant”.
Later that evening Amazon appeared towing his dinghy. How he recovered it and towed it all the way back in the conditions is anyones guess. A little later the Coastguard arrived with a searchlight trying to locate him to ensure everything was OK.
Once again it was not a good night for sleep.
Further North to Cape Upstart
Monday 16th August
The wind abated overnight and we didn't sleep too badly. We pulled up the anchor at 8 am to set out for Cape Upstart. There was a light South to SW breeze, around 10 knots, so the sails went up and we hoped for a leisurely sail all the way. Unfortunately, after a few hours the breeze dropped and we motor sailed the rest of the way, and the breeze moved steadily around to the SE.
On the way to Cape Upstart we passed quite close to the Abbott Point Coal Loading facility, not quite as impressive as Hay Point but still a substantial facility.
Coal loader at Abbott Point
Just as we arrived at Cape Upstart, the wind freshened ESE up to 20 knots. Sad we didn't have it for our sail up.
Suffice to say, Cape Upstart is not a great anchorage if there is a lot of east in the breeze. You have to anchor in as close to the shore on the southern side, leaving enough water under you to cover low tide. You still end up a long way out due to the extent of shoaling in all of these anchorages.
There were a lot of holiday houses dotting the shoreline close to the many beaches. This is apparently a favourite holiday spot for the locals.
Anchorage at Cape Upstart
We had the anchor down at 4pm and stayed on board as it was too rough to put the dinghy in the water.
The wind abated overnight and we didn't sleep too badly. We pulled up the anchor at 8 am to set out for Cape Upstart. There was a light South to SW breeze, around 10 knots, so the sails went up and we hoped for a leisurely sail all the way. Unfortunately, after a few hours the breeze dropped and we motor sailed the rest of the way, and the breeze moved steadily around to the SE.
On the way to Cape Upstart we passed quite close to the Abbott Point Coal Loading facility, not quite as impressive as Hay Point but still a substantial facility.
Just as we arrived at Cape Upstart, the wind freshened ESE up to 20 knots. Sad we didn't have it for our sail up.
Suffice to say, Cape Upstart is not a great anchorage if there is a lot of east in the breeze. You have to anchor in as close to the shore on the southern side, leaving enough water under you to cover low tide. You still end up a long way out due to the extent of shoaling in all of these anchorages.
There were a lot of holiday houses dotting the shoreline close to the many beaches. This is apparently a favourite holiday spot for the locals.
We had the anchor down at 4pm and stayed on board as it was too rough to put the dinghy in the water.
Sail to Gloucester Passage
Sunday 15th August
We left Hamilton island marina at 9am heading north to The Gloucester Passage (between Gloucester Island and the mainland). We plan to arrive on the high tide as there is one shallow area in the passage that would be touch and go on a low tide.
There was virtually no breeze < 4 knots so we motored all in very calm water. We spotted a whale just off hook Passage that kept us entertained for a little while, in an otherwise uneventful trip.
Not much Wind so we motored all the way
As we approached the passage, the wind freshened from the SW and made our choice of anchorage a bit more difficult. The most protected anchorage was in the channel, but before the shallow area, and as we planned to leave the next morning on a low tide, that was not ideal. We were also concerned about the strong tidal flow through the channel, so opted for anchorage after the exit of the channel near a very tired resort, known as eco resort. There were campers on the beach near where we anchored.
There were some moorings supplied by the resort that could be used by visitors. Rod managed to snare one, and it was all chain, but nevertheless secured it. In the strong breeze we gave up, we either needed a longer boat hook or longer arms. We just anchored off behind the mooring area. Rod rang the resort to find out what the deal was with the moorings, but only managed to get a disconnected number. Another boat came in after us, and managed to get a mooring after trying for 30 mins, by putting someone in the dinghy to retrieve it.
It was too rough to put the dinghies overboard, so we each did our own thing and resolved to leave the following morning for Cape Upsart.
The Gloucester Channel was a bit of a disappointment given the write ups in the cruising guides. I think we will bypass it on the way back and go around the outside of Gloucester Island.
We left Hamilton island marina at 9am heading north to The Gloucester Passage (between Gloucester Island and the mainland). We plan to arrive on the high tide as there is one shallow area in the passage that would be touch and go on a low tide.
There was virtually no breeze < 4 knots so we motored all in very calm water. We spotted a whale just off hook Passage that kept us entertained for a little while, in an otherwise uneventful trip.
As we approached the passage, the wind freshened from the SW and made our choice of anchorage a bit more difficult. The most protected anchorage was in the channel, but before the shallow area, and as we planned to leave the next morning on a low tide, that was not ideal. We were also concerned about the strong tidal flow through the channel, so opted for anchorage after the exit of the channel near a very tired resort, known as eco resort. There were campers on the beach near where we anchored.
There were some moorings supplied by the resort that could be used by visitors. Rod managed to snare one, and it was all chain, but nevertheless secured it. In the strong breeze we gave up, we either needed a longer boat hook or longer arms. We just anchored off behind the mooring area. Rod rang the resort to find out what the deal was with the moorings, but only managed to get a disconnected number. Another boat came in after us, and managed to get a mooring after trying for 30 mins, by putting someone in the dinghy to retrieve it.
It was too rough to put the dinghies overboard, so we each did our own thing and resolved to leave the following morning for Cape Upsart.
The Gloucester Channel was a bit of a disappointment given the write ups in the cruising guides. I think we will bypass it on the way back and go around the outside of Gloucester Island.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Replenishing at Hamilton Island
Saturday 14th August
We left Cid Harbour at 10 am to head down to Hamilton Island. Black & Tan are heading up to the top of Hook Island and then off to Bowen and possibly Townsville, so we may meet up with them again further on.
We called in on the VHF just outside the harbour entrance to get our berth allocation and ended sitting around for about 20 minutes whilst the marina staff got there act together. The arrival of the racing fleet for Hamilton Island race week is now in full swing and the marina is very busy. Eventually we were allocated a berth right next to the new yacht club.
Our bert at Hamilton ( Mica 2nd from the left, Wild Oats far right)
After settling in we went up to the waterfront shops and had fish and chips. The cockatoos are still here and you have to be constantly on the lookout to stop them getting your food.
The afternoon was filled will refuelling, giving the boat a good hose down, filling the water tank etc. We met up with Rod & Lee at around 5.30pm for a drink at the new yacht club (very impressive architecture) and very expensive, just like everything on Hamilton Island.
Hamilton Island is buzzing with the boosted population related to race week. Restaurants are mostly booked out and the only dinner option turned out to be the tavern or Manta Ray Cafe, basically a pizza restaurant. We opted for the latter, and it was very busy. They messed up our order and we waited about 1.5 hrs for our main course, having made them aware we were not happy they gave us a bottle of wine to ease the pain.
Tomorrow we plan to head north for the Gloucester Passage on the way to Townsville.
We left Cid Harbour at 10 am to head down to Hamilton Island. Black & Tan are heading up to the top of Hook Island and then off to Bowen and possibly Townsville, so we may meet up with them again further on.
We called in on the VHF just outside the harbour entrance to get our berth allocation and ended sitting around for about 20 minutes whilst the marina staff got there act together. The arrival of the racing fleet for Hamilton Island race week is now in full swing and the marina is very busy. Eventually we were allocated a berth right next to the new yacht club.
After settling in we went up to the waterfront shops and had fish and chips. The cockatoos are still here and you have to be constantly on the lookout to stop them getting your food.
Hungry Cocky waiting to pounce on our fish & chips
The afternoon was filled will refuelling, giving the boat a good hose down, filling the water tank etc. We met up with Rod & Lee at around 5.30pm for a drink at the new yacht club (very impressive architecture) and very expensive, just like everything on Hamilton Island.
Rod returning from the Bar at Hamilton Island Yacht Club
Hamilton Island is buzzing with the boosted population related to race week. Restaurants are mostly booked out and the only dinner option turned out to be the tavern or Manta Ray Cafe, basically a pizza restaurant. We opted for the latter, and it was very busy. They messed up our order and we waited about 1.5 hrs for our main course, having made them aware we were not happy they gave us a bottle of wine to ease the pain.
Tomorrow we plan to head north for the Gloucester Passage on the way to Townsville.
Climbing Whitsunday Peak
Friday 13th August
We decided to spend the day and tonight at Cid Harbour and climb Whitsunday Peak this morning for a bit of exercise and to get what is supposed to be the best view in the Whitsundays.
We are having a baked dinner on Cooinda tonight and Carole offered to supply desert, so before we headed off she baked a Hummingbird cake in the gas oven.
We went ashore around 9.15 am, with a bit of freshness in the breeze and met up with Rod and Ross & Marj. Lee opted for a restful morning on the boat. On the way in to shore we saw a large turtle quite close to our dinghy and had more sightings on the way back. The tide was coming in so we dragged the dinghies well up the beach and tied them to some trees. Something appreciated by the local wildlife as we were to find out later.
The climb to the top of the peak was 2.5km, most of it uphill on a reasonably well defined track, and quite steep in parts. It took us about 1.5 hours, and the view from the top was well worth it. We saw a goanna, a few birds but not a lot of other wildlife. After a good look around and lots of photos, we headed back down the track and were at Sawmill Beach by 12.30pm.
As we headed around to our dinghies, we saw a goanna climbing into the dinghy next to Rod's, obviously in search of food. It didn't hang around once we got closer. On closer inspection it appeared that it had visited most of the dinghies, ours had a bit of stale bread in it and some sand where it had been and gone.
We had our baked dinner on Cooinda with Rod& Lee and Ross & Marj, which was appreciated by all.
Tomorrow we have booked in to Hamilton Island marina to take on water and a few supplies before heading off for Townsville on Sunday.
Michelle and Cody have booked to meet up with us in Townsville for 4 days from the 20th August.
We decided to spend the day and tonight at Cid Harbour and climb Whitsunday Peak this morning for a bit of exercise and to get what is supposed to be the best view in the Whitsundays.
We are having a baked dinner on Cooinda tonight and Carole offered to supply desert, so before we headed off she baked a Hummingbird cake in the gas oven.
We went ashore around 9.15 am, with a bit of freshness in the breeze and met up with Rod and Ross & Marj. Lee opted for a restful morning on the boat. On the way in to shore we saw a large turtle quite close to our dinghy and had more sightings on the way back. The tide was coming in so we dragged the dinghies well up the beach and tied them to some trees. Something appreciated by the local wildlife as we were to find out later.
The climb to the top of the peak was 2.5km, most of it uphill on a reasonably well defined track, and quite steep in parts. It took us about 1.5 hours, and the view from the top was well worth it. We saw a goanna, a few birds but not a lot of other wildlife. After a good look around and lots of photos, we headed back down the track and were at Sawmill Beach by 12.30pm.
The climb was hard work at times
View from Whitsunday peak summit looking towards Hamilton Island
As we headed around to our dinghies, we saw a goanna climbing into the dinghy next to Rod's, obviously in search of food. It didn't hang around once we got closer. On closer inspection it appeared that it had visited most of the dinghies, ours had a bit of stale bread in it and some sand where it had been and gone.
We had our baked dinner on Cooinda with Rod& Lee and Ross & Marj, which was appreciated by all.
Tomorrow we have booked in to Hamilton Island marina to take on water and a few supplies before heading off for Townsville on Sunday.
Michelle and Cody have booked to meet up with us in Townsville for 4 days from the 20th August.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Moving on to Cid harbour
Thursday 12th August
The southerly was still blowing 15-20knots as we left Shaw Island to head North to Cid Harbour. We motor sailed all the way with just a headsail up, pushing hard against a 3 knot current which had whipped the seas up quite a bit around the outside of Dent island.
We arrived at Cid Harbour around midday and the anchorage was already busy, a bit of a favourite with the bare boat charter boats. By late afternoon there were over 40 boats in the harbour.
After lunch we went ashore and took the trail to Dugong Beach, in quite sunny conditions with a much reduced breeze. The walk was around 1 km each way, and we decided we might be able to come back around the shoreline over the rocks. What started out to be a good idea quickly turned into some serious mountain climbing and it was some time before we discovered it was impassable an we had to go back the way we came and go back along the trail.
We were back on board a little after 4pm and Rod & Lee, and Ross & Marj (from Black & Tan) joined us for drinks. Rod & Lee stayed for a BBQ dinner on Mica.
Amazingly the southerly did not appear tonight and we had a good nights sleep.
The southerly was still blowing 15-20knots as we left Shaw Island to head North to Cid Harbour. We motor sailed all the way with just a headsail up, pushing hard against a 3 knot current which had whipped the seas up quite a bit around the outside of Dent island.
Cooinda in the wash off Dent Island
We arrived at Cid Harbour around midday and the anchorage was already busy, a bit of a favourite with the bare boat charter boats. By late afternoon there were over 40 boats in the harbour.
After lunch we went ashore and took the trail to Dugong Beach, in quite sunny conditions with a much reduced breeze. The walk was around 1 km each way, and we decided we might be able to come back around the shoreline over the rocks. What started out to be a good idea quickly turned into some serious mountain climbing and it was some time before we discovered it was impassable an we had to go back the way we came and go back along the trail.
Ashore at Sawmill Beach
Goanna at Dugong Beach
Maybe we should have stuck to the track !
We were back on board a little after 4pm and Rod & Lee, and Ross & Marj (from Black & Tan) joined us for drinks. Rod & Lee stayed for a BBQ dinner on Mica.
Amazingly the southerly did not appear tonight and we had a good nights sleep.
Seeking shelter at Shaw Island
Wednesday 11th August
The wind was still blowing hard this morning and it was still raining, but forecast to fine up this afternoon and the wind is expected to abate.
We are still getting used to the strange wind pattern up here at the moment where strong winds are almost always in the mornings, easing in the afternoon. First job this morning was to pump all of the rainwater out of the dinghy. It was about 100mm deep.
Around lunchtime the wind started dropping and by 2pm it was almost non existent, so we decided to go ashore. Rod came with us, as Lee was happy to relax on Cooinda.
We motored in to a beach where there is a narrow neck that allows you to walk to the other side of the island through a mangrove flat. The walkway has been marked by previous explorers using all types of blue coloured flotsam, hung from the vegetation. Old bottles, rope, thongs , buckets and anything else that could be found and is blue in colour has been used.
Trail Markers at Shaw island Track (note the blue thong)
The walk only took around 30 minutes and the beach we emerged at on the Southern side of Shaw Island, was rugged and rocky, suggesting the sea can get pretty angry at times from the South.
Beach on the Southern Side of Shaw Island
When we walked back, the tide had gone out a long way and we had to carry the dinghy a good 100m to get to water deep enough to float in, and then about another 50m of rowing before it was deep enough to use the outboard.
We had drinks on Cooinda at around 5.30pm and returned to our boat to ready ourselves for departure tomorrow, get the dinghy on board, and cook chicken satays on the BBQ for dinner.
Mica and Burning Point at Sunset
When we went to bed it was dead calm, but as regular as clockwork, at midnight in came the southerly blowing around 20-25 knots. Nevertheless we slept well.
The wind was still blowing hard this morning and it was still raining, but forecast to fine up this afternoon and the wind is expected to abate.
We are still getting used to the strange wind pattern up here at the moment where strong winds are almost always in the mornings, easing in the afternoon. First job this morning was to pump all of the rainwater out of the dinghy. It was about 100mm deep.
Around lunchtime the wind started dropping and by 2pm it was almost non existent, so we decided to go ashore. Rod came with us, as Lee was happy to relax on Cooinda.
We motored in to a beach where there is a narrow neck that allows you to walk to the other side of the island through a mangrove flat. The walkway has been marked by previous explorers using all types of blue coloured flotsam, hung from the vegetation. Old bottles, rope, thongs , buckets and anything else that could be found and is blue in colour has been used.
The walk only took around 30 minutes and the beach we emerged at on the Southern side of Shaw Island, was rugged and rocky, suggesting the sea can get pretty angry at times from the South.
When we walked back, the tide had gone out a long way and we had to carry the dinghy a good 100m to get to water deep enough to float in, and then about another 50m of rowing before it was deep enough to use the outboard.
We had drinks on Cooinda at around 5.30pm and returned to our boat to ready ourselves for departure tomorrow, get the dinghy on board, and cook chicken satays on the BBQ for dinner.
When we went to bed it was dead calm, but as regular as clockwork, at midnight in came the southerly blowing around 20-25 knots. Nevertheless we slept well.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Plantation Bay, Lindeman Island
Tuesday 10th August
After a sound nights sleep we awoke to the weather we have been waiting for. After breakfast we went ashore to have a look around.
We had morning tea on the beach, with Rod & Lee and our newfound friends from Black & Tan, and then set out for a walk along a well cleared track to the resort, about 2 km away. The scenery along the way was stunning and just what you expect in the Whitsundays. Temperature mid 20's, blue sky and water.
When we finally arrived at the resort we had a quick look around, and was a bit surprised how spread out and hilly it is. Access to the resort from the track was past the airstrip, I would catch the boat. !!!
The walk back to Plantation Bay was a bit more downhill, so easier than the walk up, and a swim was in order when we returned to our dinghies, although a number of stingrays were sighted just off the beach, so it was a quick swim.
The weather forecast is deteriorating and we expect a strong southerly change overnight and possibly a storm, so decide that after lunch we will move to a location that has better protection from strong winds from the south.
After lunch we motored over to Shaw Island and anchored in a bay protected by Burning Point to wait the change. It hit around midnight with winds around 25 knots and the suspected storm arrived also. We had a lot of rain, apparently 80-90mm (looked like more in the dinghy), but the anchorage was reasonably protected from swell, so we slept well.
After a sound nights sleep we awoke to the weather we have been waiting for. After breakfast we went ashore to have a look around.
We had morning tea on the beach, with Rod & Lee and our newfound friends from Black & Tan, and then set out for a walk along a well cleared track to the resort, about 2 km away. The scenery along the way was stunning and just what you expect in the Whitsundays. Temperature mid 20's, blue sky and water.
Morning tea at Plantation Bay
Mica in Plantation Bay
When we finally arrived at the resort we had a quick look around, and was a bit surprised how spread out and hilly it is. Access to the resort from the track was past the airstrip, I would catch the boat. !!!
The airstrip at Lindeman Resort
The walk back to Plantation Bay was a bit more downhill, so easier than the walk up, and a swim was in order when we returned to our dinghies, although a number of stingrays were sighted just off the beach, so it was a quick swim.
The weather forecast is deteriorating and we expect a strong southerly change overnight and possibly a storm, so decide that after lunch we will move to a location that has better protection from strong winds from the south.
After lunch we motored over to Shaw Island and anchored in a bay protected by Burning Point to wait the change. It hit around midnight with winds around 25 knots and the suspected storm arrived also. We had a lot of rain, apparently 80-90mm (looked like more in the dinghy), but the anchorage was reasonably protected from swell, so we slept well.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Heading North for a better anchorage
Monday 9th August
After a nights sleep that was like sleeping in a washing machine, we rose at 5.30am, having had enough of being tossed around. The wind had changed to the NE, not ideal for our anchorage and yesterdays plans of spending the morning ashore going for a walk quickly evaporated, as getting into the dinghy was a major exercise.
After breakfast we decided to move on to a more comfortable spot. It was impossible to get the dinghy on board in these conditions so we will tow it. The plan was to motor to Thomas Island, only 9 nm to the North and find better shelter there. On arrival every anchorage was exposed to the now 15 knot Noreaster, so we continued on to seek refuge at Shaw or Lindeman Island.
In the end, the best option was Plantation Bay off Lindeman Island where we dropped anchor around 11.30 am, on hour or so after the high tide. Once setlled the fishing lines were in the water and soon after we had an edible fish, (looks like a member of the bream family), like everything else we catch here identification is a real challenge.
Early in the afternoon, the tide had gone out considerably and we realisied we were ancored a little too close to the reef for comfort so pulled up the ancor and moved further out.
After drinks on Mica with Rod & Lee we looked forward to a good night's sleep in what was a sug anchorage undr the prevailing conditions. Tomorrow we look forward to going ashore and having a good walk and hopefully a swim.
After a nights sleep that was like sleeping in a washing machine, we rose at 5.30am, having had enough of being tossed around. The wind had changed to the NE, not ideal for our anchorage and yesterdays plans of spending the morning ashore going for a walk quickly evaporated, as getting into the dinghy was a major exercise.
After breakfast we decided to move on to a more comfortable spot. It was impossible to get the dinghy on board in these conditions so we will tow it. The plan was to motor to Thomas Island, only 9 nm to the North and find better shelter there. On arrival every anchorage was exposed to the now 15 knot Noreaster, so we continued on to seek refuge at Shaw or Lindeman Island.
Mica and Cooinda heading North
In the end, the best option was Plantation Bay off Lindeman Island where we dropped anchor around 11.30 am, on hour or so after the high tide. Once setlled the fishing lines were in the water and soon after we had an edible fish, (looks like a member of the bream family), like everything else we catch here identification is a real challenge.
Anchorage at Plantation Bay - Cooinda (left) Black & Tan (right)
After drinks on Mica with Rod & Lee we looked forward to a good night's sleep in what was a sug anchorage undr the prevailing conditions. Tomorrow we look forward to going ashore and having a good walk and hopefully a swim.
Fair Winds and a sail to Goldsmith Island
Sunday 8th August
We awoke to a sunny morning with around 10 knot SE breeze. Time to leave Mackay and head off to the Whitsundays. Our destination is Goldsmith Island, a sail of around 30 nm so no need to for an early start. Cooinda needed fuel, so they headed off to the fuel wharf about 8.45am and we headed out around 20 mins later, and waited in the outer harbour until they had everything sorted.
We left the harbour at around 9.30am, and after getting out into clear water, raised the mainsail and headed for Goldsmith. We had a steady 10-12 knot SE breeze and we sailed nearly all of the way, with a few gybes, as like always, the wind was mostly directly behind us.
We had our anchor down by 3 pm, dinghies in the water and went ashore to explore the island. Another yacht ( Black & Tan from Melbourne) which left the Mackay marina around the same time as us, also anchored in the same bay. They also went ashore and we had a good chat on the beach and they joined us for drinks on Cooinda later.
Here we are at Goldsmith
We spent an hour or so having a look around on the shore before returning to our boats, and then later meeting up for drinks on Cooinda.
By the time we got back to the boat a bit of swell was developing and the prospect of a good nights sleep diminished. As it turned out, it only got worse.
We awoke to a sunny morning with around 10 knot SE breeze. Time to leave Mackay and head off to the Whitsundays. Our destination is Goldsmith Island, a sail of around 30 nm so no need to for an early start. Cooinda needed fuel, so they headed off to the fuel wharf about 8.45am and we headed out around 20 mins later, and waited in the outer harbour until they had everything sorted.
We left the harbour at around 9.30am, and after getting out into clear water, raised the mainsail and headed for Goldsmith. We had a steady 10-12 knot SE breeze and we sailed nearly all of the way, with a few gybes, as like always, the wind was mostly directly behind us.
We had our anchor down by 3 pm, dinghies in the water and went ashore to explore the island. Another yacht ( Black & Tan from Melbourne) which left the Mackay marina around the same time as us, also anchored in the same bay. They also went ashore and we had a good chat on the beach and they joined us for drinks on Cooinda later.
They even had a public toilet
We spent an hour or so having a look around on the shore before returning to our boats, and then later meeting up for drinks on Cooinda.
Finding an ideal spot for the dinghy at low tide was a challenge
By the time we got back to the boat a bit of swell was developing and the prospect of a good nights sleep diminished. As it turned out, it only got worse.
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