Saaremaa Sails On

CDLMYC St Patrick's Outing Return from Newcastle.

2011-03-21T22:54:00.001+11:00

Back to Lake Macquarie
Sunday 20 March 2011

After a very stormy night which failed to interrupt our sleep the sky looked a bit daunting but we headed off at 0840 for Swansea and home to the lake. There were no dolphins to guide our path and once more it was a motor sail the whole way, cest la vie.

Petrouchka hangs off.

Life got a bit lumpy turning into the swell out of Newcastle Harbour but it soon settled down and we were motoring along again (not enough wind) alongside Indigo and hot in pursuit of the speedsters Leanne and Derek aboard Calysta. All to no avail they crossed Swansea Bar way ahead of the fleet and awaited the 1200 bridge opening while others caught up.

Stoked and The Wizard avoid a bow kiss.

The orderly mob proceed

what a lovely procession!!

It was a fair gathering at the bridge with Belami B, Calysta, Indigo, Isis, Pete's Dragon, Petrouchka, Saaremaa, Stoked, Sundowner and The Wizard all floating around plus 2 ring ins She's Apples II and Rock the Boat. It seemed a bit busy but with true gentlefolkly conduct all boats proceeded in an orderly fashion through 'The Gates of Safety' (aka the 'Jaws of Death' if you get squidged by them, not recommended!!!)

Welcome home Saaremaa!!

Come on Indigo back into the fold!

A quick float down the channel to the lake proper with the ingoing tide saw us met by the mother ship also known as The Wizard with Beth and Ray waving bye for now.
Lake Macquarie, no tide, no swell and a large waterway to explore and sail, wonderful, lets keep it a secret.

Floating down the channel.

The sky looks a bit ominous but its still a lovely float.

Not far now to the dropover and deep water.

Back to the mooring to tidy up and home for a sleep. ZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz!!

Stoked to be home, almost.

The Wizard awaits. (Thanks' mum and dad').

That's it until next time!!

CD LMYC St Patrick's Newcastle Cruise March 2011

2011-03-21T06:28:00.002+11:00

Up to Newcastle (with a little bit of blarney)
Sat 19March

After a night on the LMYC jetty and being woken by the pounding of the boat against the dock when a strong SW wind came in at 0100 hrs we moved to Saarema's preferred spot near the BBQ on the southern side for a bit of peace and quiet.

Calysta leads the charge through the 'Jaws of Freedom'

We left the dock at 0900 to give plenty of time for a 1000 bridge opening after Michael's brilliant work of 2 weeks previous where we had to motor at the full 3600 rpm to make through the bridge.
The kindly bridge operator of the day opened up a little late and allowed us to pass through. Thank you bridge man. No problems this time as Saaremaa, Calysta, Indigo, Isis, Belami B and Pete's Dragon passed though the Lake Gate (The Jaws to Freedom).

Indigo escaping to freedom.

Chomping along up the channel and over the lovely flat bar we rock and roll our way under motor sail to Newcastle.

Isis follows Belami B out and over the bar.

Out on the ocean that looks pretty flat.

Isis chomping along past the dodgy bit.

Dolphins came to play around each boat to escort us on our way. These were black on top and tan on the lower sides. Hmmm the 'Black and Tans' not a mob noted for their hospitality. Fortunately these were Aussie dolphins who were just out for a good time.

Not the best shot but spot the dolphin anyway.

A quick trip up to Newcastle had us logging off at 1230 and tying at Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club by 1300 hrs. NCYC generously provided free overnight berthing to us and we thank them for their generosity.

Pete's Dragon and Indigo enter Newcastle harbour.

Sundowner arrives ably assisted by Derek Calysta.

Petrouchka makes it too ably assisted by Derek Calysata and Ken Indigo.

After tying up it was time for what the CD mob do best 'nibblies' and drinks. Extreme competition existed between Stoked and Sundowner for best 'nibbly' venue. Saaremaa was not a contender for this title.

Linda flashing her tatts, bejabers and begorra!!

Incognito Libby sporting an extreme Irish look.

Dinner at NCYC proved to be a filling affair after an afternoon of nibbly stuffing but as usual the meals were excellent.

The feasting begins and continues below.


Who is this bad lad??? Bill surely not!!!.

The Queens and home to Lake Macquarie. (End of blog until next time)

2011-02-25T01:05:00.008+11:00

Tues 22 Feb 2011

Store Beach to Lake Macquarie

Queen Elizabeth, Really!!

We were up at 0430 for a cuppa and toast then it was off to the heads as still dark at 0530 the 151,000 tonne Queen Mary II with all lights blazing made a colourful entry into the harbour followed in similar manner by the 90,000 tonne Queen Elizabeth, my pitiful photos do not capture the moment very well. Police boats with blue flashing lights kept an exclusion zone which was a long way from us.

Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary II is in front and looks smaller, Really!!

Queen Elizabeth in daylight.

Queen Lizzie leaving town.

The Queens at dawn in Sydney Harbour.

Thanks to Ray Kiely for going down harbour and taking these photos of Q Lizzie And Q Mary2 at dawn and in daylight from Warialda.
Roaring along at 6 knots it was futile to go for a royal chase so we went back put up the mainsail and headed out to sea, homeward bound. Damn royals, they come so we go, but perhaps in a little less style and comfort.

North Head at sunrise.

It was soon daylight and lumpy bouncing out of the harbour but conditions settled down to a 3m southerly swell with tiddly waves as we changed course for Moon Islet and home.

Look Ma no hands!! Benny Boy has a go at steering.

Benny Boy the Monitor wind vane had several goes at steering but could not manage the conditions without heading to NZ. I guess I should have poled out the genoa however it did not happen.

MeanwhilePete's Dragon is charging along on headsail to manage a 1500 bridge (the speedsters).

We sailed most of the way to Moon Islet at 5-6 kts arriving at the Swansea Bridge just before 1600 hence no opening until 1700 then it was off to LMYC to tie up for the night, a shower, dinner and ZZZZzzzzzzzz.

That's all for this trip!!!!!!!

PS Our laptop chartplotting program OpenCPN worked like a dream and the laptop even managed to stay on the chart table the whole way in some lumpy seas. A miracle or just big nails holding it down???

A Walk Ashore Along Glebe Point Road

2011-02-25T00:29:00.000+11:00

Mon 21 Feb 2011

Rozelle Bay to Store Beach

Good Morning NSW Maritime and the super yachts.

It is a busy bay with Dragon Boat racers, rowers and kayakers using the waterway with lights on before dawn. Anchoring within the confines of the mooring marks the night before the southerly wind had moved us just outside hence the visit from Maritime was not unexpected as we were asked to re-anchor within the marks. Maritime Headquarters being just across the bay we thought it only judicious (and polite) to comply seeing as I was allowed to finish my cup of tea and toast.

Our Super Yacht friends and a lone paddler.

Seeing as we missed out on the chance of a super yacht berth the night before and were not invited over for coffee or tea this morning it was decided to do our own thing.

Rafting up beneath the Anzac Bridge

After anchoring closer in a trip ashore was planned for coffee and a stroll the length of Glebe Point Road passing places of my misspent youth its good to see that Glebe retains its unique flavour as a bit bohemian. Bargains are to be had in the op-shops ie a couple of Saaremaa sized wine glasses at $1 each.
I sware this road has got longer it feels like 5 kms but I know its not ( must be my age catching up).
Pete Weitzel an old friend came down to visit and stroll with us.

Kokomo the gentleman.

On leaving Kokomo followed us out in a gentlemanly way unlike the basket case the day before who flew past us making maximum wash to beat us to the swing bridge, one has to wonder!!

More royalty as we pass the Pacific Princess tied up at the 'Hungry Mile'.


Pacific Princess being 'watered'.

Pete's Dragon just squeezes under the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Pinchgut and a real sailing ship.

I think we will keep out of the way of Freshwater.


Pete's Dragon anchored at Store Beach

Warialda set for the night at Store Beach.

It was a blustery sail up Sydney Harbour to Storm Beach at Spring Cove where Warialda and the 'Tres Amigos' are already anchored for the night.

THE BIG SMOKE - Sydney

2011-02-24T23:28:00.000+11:00

Sun 20 Feb 2011

Gosford to Rozelle Bay, Sydney

Rip Bridge, here we go again.

Nearly there!

Duck or limbo??

Another hot and glorious day saw us heading for Sydney leaving at 1130 we motored up the channel, much prettier in the sunshine limboing under the Rip Bridge much more slowly against the tide. (Doesn't RIP mean 'rest in peace', interesting!!!!).

Motoring up the channel we noticed Pete's Dragon raise the head sail, a bold move we thought until it turned out it was to get off the mud. As Pete said thanks to Ray Hislop for the advice.

The dodgy green marks near the rocks in the channel were little problem, as little tide was flowing this time, a picnic.

Sun Princess leaving.

South Head

Motor sailing all the way to Sydney Sun Princess was leaving as we rounded North Head, (typical royals we come they go).

The' Coathanger'

Pete's Dragon is coming through - make way!!

Sundowning Annie, Pete and Kate.

Anzac Bridge at twilight.

Twilightier Anzac Bridge

Good night Sydney.

We met up with Pete's Dragon at Watsons Bay and headed down Sydney Harbour to Rozelle Bay for a comfortable and free overnight anchorage under the Anzac Bridge.

The cooler conditions were welcomed for a good nights sleep.

The Big Smoke - Gosford ( it seemed that way after a couple of weeks of 'wilderness')

2011-02-24T22:21:00.001+11:00

Sat 19 Feb 2011

Gosford Sailing Club

Our non party pontoon from the BBQ

A sunny and hot 33C day started with a walk up into the 'Big Smoke' for a few more basic supplies followed by a 'lol' around the boats until a BBQ onshore with Pete and Kate, 'Las Dragonistas'.

Throughout the day a lot of sailing activity occurred with kiddies that looked as young as 5 or 6years old sailing dinghies 2 up (they start them young here). Several larger vessels tied up on the outside of the pontoon readying for a point score race and there were other dinghy class races also occurring. A very busy day on the water at a very active sailing club.

Annie and I noted some interesting names of different Laser class boats including; The Torturers Apprentice,
Pointless, Public Enema No 1 amongst others. It could be fun or not as a T Apprentice but there is not much point in sailing the second one and I think I'll give the third a wide berth to avoid getting in the poo.

Saturday night it was all hopping at the club and still blinking hot so at 2300 party animals that we are we donned our gladrags and sort out the music and dancing in the air conditioned luxury until kick out time at midnight. Back to the heat to sleep!!!!!

Los Saaremaates and Las Dragonistas Central Coast Odyssey

2011-02-21T15:02:00.000+11:00

Friday 18 Feb 2011

The Central Coast Odyssey or Oddity

The face of Barrenjoey Head

The infamous Rip bridge looms speedily closer!

Waking early 0500 to be exact we noted that the fleet had abandoned us. Hence Pete's Dragon and Saaremaa were left as the lonely ones in the corner without any friends. As the intrepid individuals that we are we headed for Box Head and the entry channel to Brisbane Waters.

Motor sailing across Broken Bay we found the channel with an ingoing tide (planned surprisingly enough) and enjoyed the exciting ride around the first set of green markers (a bit dodgy here). The pleasure and excitement only grew as we passed under the Rip Bridge at 9.4 knots. It was a pity it was such a misery guts day as it would have been very pretty as the houses flashed by going up channel.


Saaremaa comfortably ensconced.

Avoiding running aground anywhere soon Brisbane Waters opened up to us.Heading up to Gosford we sort out the 2 courtesy moorings near the Gosford Sailing Club, one was occupied so we continued up to the harbour nearby was "Don't you know who I am?" Iguana Joes (sadly closed down). Gosford Sailing Club jetty looked welcoming so we tied and waited for the club to open. A very reasonable fee was involved for 2 pens for 2 nights.

Pete's Dragon also very comfortable. Iguana Joes white sails in the background.

As can be seen from the photos Saaremaa and Pete's Dragon were at separate ends of the finger (obviously to stop any wild party shenanigans going on).

The GSC people were very hospitable and the club is only a 15 min walk to town for supplies. Club member Stefan of Penzance an Adams 31 even drove Pete and I to the service station to fill our jerry cans with diesel, many thanks Stefan.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater IX (Last Day)

2011-02-21T10:42:00.000+11:00

Thurs 17Feb 2011

Lunch at Royal Motor Yacht Club Pittwater

Sundowner, Weatherorknot, Catatonic and Walkabout at sunrise.

Awaking to a tranquil sunrise and a beautiful day revellers that we are and with need to pace ourselves a lazy breakfast was enjoyed before we donned our glad rags for lunch.

Delivering John and Marion.

The final delivery.

All seated then lets go!

Dreamcatcher, Double fun and Walkabout were the three assigned vessels to ferry us to RMYC. Tony Austin our ferrymaster duly collected his charges and gave us the safety lesson, ie "Life jackets are in here if we need them." Then we set off.

Annie steps ashore.


Three CD beauties grace the dock.

Arrival and dock inspection showed that all seemed to be in order at RMYC dock and on further inspection the club itself was rather magnificent, (in some ways similar to CBSC, in that we have a dock and a clubhouse).

Lunch was enjoyed and then it was off again to our floating homes to spend the last night at Coasters Retreat.

Another fine luncheon group!

Passing Walkabout.

A visitor to Coasters, sorry the moorings are so small!

Maureen waves goodbye or hello.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater VIIIa

2011-02-19T17:49:00.002+11:00

Wed 16 Feb 2011 'Afternoon Shift'

A Trim Sail and Presentation Nibblies on the Shore at Towlers

Lots of heads, hats and backs of the CD crew abound.

After recovering from dinghy wars, without the aid of a defibrillator (is that correct Docs?) or heart starter for the rest of us, the afternoon promised a cat sail.
"Do you know my mate Pete?" took the CD cruisers aboard his 40ft cat Trim for an afternoon sail.

As can be seen from the photo Trim is fairly roomy on deck and zips along nicely in 10 - 15 kts of breeze.

Thanks to Pete for a great afternoon sail from all the CD cruisers.

"Has anyone met my mate Ray?" I must introduce you sometime.

Presentation Nibblies

Maureen Presents and Fred does the honours.

Maureen and Fred Stoked gathered the swashbucklers on shore at Towlers Bay for our last nibbly time and cruise presentations. Every child wins a prize in this event, Saaremaa surviving without incident this year, Catatonic received the 'kindness award' for sailing services to young backpackers, The Wizard pirate outfits also received an award whose name escapes me plus many other awards too numerous to mention.


Ray and Helen receive The Wanda Hitchcock Trophy from Fred.

The 'Wanda Hitchcock Trophy' for continuing to cruise in less than ideal circumstances was awarded to long term Pittwater Cruise participants Helen and Ray from Dreamcatcher. Ray was even wore his cruise T-shirt from 2000 on a few occasions. Very worthy recipients indeed.

Pete the Pirates Poet in full flight.

After presentation Pete from Pete's Dragon gave a pirates rendition of the cruise in what we believe to be 'Pirate Verse'. A rhymer to be sure with his Purple and Myrtle.

A NOT unruly mob

Ray and Helen with trophy.

Another full day is over.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater VIII

2011-02-17T21:47:00.000+11:00

Loading for battle with buckets and water guns.

Wed 16 Feb 2011

Towlers Bay dinghy race and battle

Race boats are assembling.

At 1100 a race was called and dinghies were set to row around the buoys. It became clear early on that foul play was afoot and the rule book went overboard along with any demeanor that true gentlefolk pirates would aspire to.
The 'Dawks' interfered early with 'Los Saaremaates' and very quickly were wet through. Meanwhile the 'Dragon' boat, Pete's Dragon, was playing for keeps and heading for the finish line.

Round 2 saw many a boat pushed and pulled around the course with Little Stoked being stuffed as it was alternately pushed and pulled.

Let the race begin.

A fine Oxford/Cambridge row was put in by the Little Dreamcatchers with Helen & Ray rowing their arms off. Cheating seemed to be the order of the day with many a boat taking on too much water which was splashed liberally around.

A champion rowing team Little Dreamcatcher.

Emptying the dinghy fleet became a necessity.

Still emptying and readying for battle.

Pirates v Navy was a push over for the naval brigade who all seemed to have better gotcha skills than we unkempt and unruly pirate mob.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater VII

2011-02-17T18:18:00.000+11:00

Tues 15 Feb 2011

Towlers Bay Ray's, Dreamcatcher, Wine Options

The dinghies are ashore, the circle is ready let the option begin!!

After a morning of more games and frivolity at Coasters the fleet moved around to Towlers Bay ready for onshore activities involving the demon drink (but there were no demons for us hardy pirates) only the scent of the grape.

The wine option is about to start sup your glasses.

Ray poured generously from the paper bag, a splendid drop that nobody managed to fathom, it being a new grape variety that most of us cannot spell let alone pronounce. The grape variety being Voignier and not the regular Hunter Semillon or Chardonnay that we are more familiar with. Education is a life long struggle. "Please sir can we have some more liquid education as my glass is empty?"

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater VI

2011-02-17T17:58:00.001+11:00

Instructions are given out. Why are Ray & Beth laughing???

Mon 14 Feb 2011

Coasters Retreat Treasure Hunt

Romantic Treasure Hunting on Valentines Day.

Waking to a slightly overcast but otherwise clear day The brigands assembled onshore for Beth & Ray's, The Wizard, treasure hunt. Armed with compass and a sheet of instructions of bearings with pacing the motley lot ranged all over Coasters but none neared the black stump (which did not exist, hence a tree root sufficed) closer than Ted & Trish, Halcyon, who gained the Treasure Trunk.

Heinz & Eva, Anya II, were unsuccessful even with a length of string: Tony & Cath, Double Fun, had no luck at all using true bearings rather than magnetic. All were within 50 paces or metres (not really close enough) which just goes to show that CD members of LMYC are not going to make a living as treasure hunters.

A steady hand is needed here at Genja.

Even the joey popped out its head to see all the fun.

Games and Shopping

Not a steady enough hand for James.

A mean bowl from Kate.

Games were played ashore in the afternoon while the shoppers went on the ferry across to Palm Beach to find bread, milk and newspapers. Hint on the ferry look old and ask for a single to get the concession.
Games ashore included genja, cubes, dominoes and bocci. Few if any champions were evident but John, Warialda, threw a mean stick in the cubes section.

Genja was enjoyed by an English couple Kiuma and James but alas no success for young James.

John goes for it, beware the stick!!

Kate, Pete's Dragon, chucked a lovely bocci ball as the court ranged around Coasters.

Dominoes was an interesting game where the rules seemed to change each hand until Debbie, Walkabout, finally read and worked out the rules.


The concentration at the dominoes was palpable.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater V

2011-02-17T10:24:00.002+11:00

Sun 13 Feb 2011

Coasters Retreat

The Pirates Barrrrr is now open.

Motor sailing around to Coasters Retreat with a little excursion to the lumpy ocean swell off Barrenjoey Head in the fresh breeze cleared our heads and recharged our batteries.

The odd concoction ready to sample.


Dinner is almost ready says Heinz.

Coasters is a top spot for the rainy weather due to the covered BBQ area with picnic tables thoughtfully provided by the NSW Parks & Wildlife people.
The Pirates Barrrr opened at 1730 and many a spendid concoction was available to sample and guess the ingredients of. Rum and whatever ..........!!!!!

Winners of the cocktails by popular vote were Marion & John, Catatonic, with a delight Catatonic Molotov which goes off when consumed.
Winner of the guess the ingredients was Anne, Saaremaa, who has extensive personal knowledge of many a drink (an unfair advantage really)!!

Tony's sum up of the drinks was an entertaining interlude before the more serious work of BBQing dinner.

Dinner at last!

The even more serious matter of eating dinner was next.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater IV

2011-02-17T09:42:00.002+11:00

Sat 12 Feb 2011

Refuge Bay

Refuge Bay RatCam

Morning tea ashore and the infamous rat races occurred early in the day before the rain settled in confining cruisers to their boats. Besides which the beach disappeared ar high tide anyway.

Libby's leading rat nears the finish line.

Heinz Brill, Anya II, otherwise known as King Rat took out the overall prize once again with his exquisite risk action. Meanwhile Libby Archer, Indigo, is know to be known as 'Heat Queen Rat' for winning her heat of the ladies section with superb wrist control and lightning speed. The 'Overall Queen Rat' is Linda, Sundowner, with her unique wiggle hip style adding to the spectacle during the ratoff.

John remounts the steed.

Bob saves his beer.

On leaving the shore John, Catatonic, and Bob, Warialda, need special mention for grace in dinghy not mounting, fortunately Bob did not dilute his beer during the dunking.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater III

2011-02-15T17:33:00.001+11:00

Thursday 10Feb 2011

Hallets Beach to Dangar Island Return

Arrival of the Mottley Crew on Dangar Island

Leaving Halletts Beach the fleet motored up to the north side of Dangar Island anchoring in preparation of a raid on the coffee shop where we promptly ran the place off their feet as they met coffee and cake needs of the rampant mob.

Coffee and caking on Dangar

Anticipation

A short walk up to the Bowling Club (not open so no chance of losing out on the pokies) was undertaken by a few of us fitter folk along with Ella the scotty dog from Once More Dear Friends.

Aah that's better a full belly.

The wind was in the right direction to unfurl some sail on the way back to Halletts. We Saaremaates were surprised to sea Dreamcatcher anchored in very close to shore where we like to go (as Sir Humphrey might say " a very courageous choice"). It was noted that later Helen & Ray upped anchor and moved Dreamcatcher further out in the bay.

The courage of Dreamcatcher at Halletts Beach

Helen takes a grog from an unruly pirate. Pirate John???

Leanne wench & Derek strongman pirat

The Pirates Feast ashore was a splendid affair with the long banquet table set up and food for thousands (well about 40 anyway).


Ross under the weather before the start.

Who have we here Pirates to be sure Ray & Beth

Harlot Pirates and Harlot Wenches abounded with swords breaking as the Sheffield Finest Steel (or plastic) gave up. Derek from Calysta managed to break both of their swords (he does not know his own strength).

Captain Ken Hook and Libby wench

After some feasting and de-thirsting a game of 'Bop the Parrot' ensued during which several tree shakers shook polly down but the only winner was Pete from Pete's Dragon.

Happy Pirates after a day of Patonga Pillage

Kate wench & Peter pirate

The Brigands of Warialda, beware world!!

The Feast over pirates are now ready for some serious de-thirsting.

Friday 11 Feb 2011

Hallets Beach to Refuge Bay via Patonga

At 1100 the fleet left Halletts sailing for Patonga, Saaremaa quickly giving up the sail and motoring most of the way. Fish and chips with a cleansing ale or bottle of plonk were welcome for lunch before the sail to Refuge Bay in rising SE winds. Patonga Beach is no place to ride out southerly!!
The calm conditions in Refuge Bay where moorings abound (even if they are not your own) were conducive to a swim and nibblies on the beach. It was not a formal do and hence Michael dressed in full black budgie smugglers while Anne sported her elegant Red Cross swimmers. Others were less formally attired we note.

Cruising Division LMYC, Pittwater II

2011-02-13T15:42:00.000+11:00

Tuesday 8th Feb 2011

Coasters Retreat to Yeomans Bay via Lion Island

Indigo & Halcyon round Lion Island.

Saaremaa creeps up close.

Lion Island to port.

After Stoked Maureen's delightful morning sked the fleet set sail on a lovely sunny morning for a cruise to the overnight anchorage at Yeoman's Bay. A light NE wind was blowing filling the sails for our sail around Lion Island and up Cowan Creek.

Indigo, Halcyon and Saaremaa rounded the Island a little later than most but ahd a good sail all the same.
The wind died near Refuge Bay so motoring became the order of the day up to Yeoman's. Bugger! Arriving late means moorings are gone the anchor goes down.

The Swashbucklers Feast

Yeoman's Bay

Do you give in Annie? AAArrrrgggghhhh!!!

Anne & Michael had already arranged the draw for the Shared Swashbucklers Feast and delivered the grog to the host boats. (There were some reports of the grog not being of the highest quality but we assure all that they were all bottled last Tuesday).

Marauding Pirates were noted in the bay later in the evening and this pirate got a little damp from hoses that were obviously accidentally set off.

Wed 9th Feb 2011

Yeoman's Bay to Halletts Beach via Cottage Point

Leaving a rocky friend in Yeoman's Bay behind.

Another lovely morning to start with and a motor around to Cottage Point kiosk for a coffe and some supplies with a little walk ahore up to Cottage Point Restaurant. After a quick perousal of the menu it was quickly decided that prices were very effective in keeping the riff-raff out and so we riffed and raffed our way back to the boat.

Hallets Beach beckoned in the now overcast and dreary day so off we went anchoring close inshore as is our want.

Thurs 10 Feb 2011

Halletts Beach around Dangar Island return.

Off to Pittwater

2011-02-07T16:46:00.002+11:00

Friday 4 February 2011
Saaremaa has entered the 21st century finally now that we have a good laptop navigation program 'Open CPN'and the laptop fixed to the chart table

Saaremaa enters the 21st century with a laptop chart plotting program. (only 11 years late)

Loading the boat on the Croudace Bay jetty was a warm affair that after several beers and several hours was completed. With Muhu the inflatable aboard and water tanks filled we headed off to Lake Macquarie Yacht Club for dinner and several more beers in the 38C heat. A steamy night with little breeze was spent on board.

The hot & Steamy LMYC jetty

Saturday 5 February

The wind came up hot and strong from the NW by 0700hrs and after helping Catatonic leave the work berth with some difficulties we left the dock at 0800. We being Warialda, Indigo, Pete's Dragon, Catatonic and Saaremaa.

Saaremaa & Indigo flying south to Pittwater.

Warialda was first through the bridge and off to Pittwater as the rest of our little group were still raising the mainsail. The Swansea bar was flat and the ocean had a small swell with little wave and the wind was blowing 20-25 knotsfrom the NW. Trucking along at 6-7 knots we little boats had a great sail down to Pittwater. The 30+knots as we neared Broken Bay gave some interesting turns of speed of 7.5 knots and hard wheel work to prevent rounding up aboard Saaremaa.

Pete's Dragon flying along with us.

After entering Pittwater and sailing down to Towlers Bay with Indigo alongside it was great to pick up a mooring and jump into the water for a cooling swim (what SHARKSSS!!!!).

Indigo passes Barrenjoey Head.

It was great to meet up with Anne & Jim Cate from Insatiable II after last seeing them at Great Keppel Island back in August 2010.

Sunday 6 Feb
A forecast strong southerley change by lunch encouraged us to leave Towlers Bay for the more protected Coasters Retreat along with the rest of the cruising division fleet. here we picked up another mooring and continued to sweat out the day until welcome relief of a drop of rain and cool breezes.

Catatonic safeley tucked up at coasters Retreat.

Sundowner lazes away the morning at coasters Retreat.

A BBQ ashore with other LMYC Cruising Division boats included Anya II, Isis, Once More Dear Griends, Weatherorknot, Dreamcatcher, Catatonic, Warialda, Sundowner, The Wizard, Stoked, Double Fun, Indigo, Flagship, Pete's Dragon, Halcyon and Saaremaa (15 boats).

Heinz roulette, NOT reccommended for faint hearted.

Happy Birthday to Heinz Brill, Anya II, who is 25 or thereabouts again today.

A much cooler night was conducive to a good solid sleep helped along with a drop wine and Heinz's cognac.

Maureen ROOLS the 'Crazy Whist'.

Monday 7 Feb

Cool and overcast but dry made perfect conditions for crazy whist cards onshore. The pieces of 8 were won by Bob from Warialda who may have some difficulty putting them in the poker machines to win a furthe fortune. Crazy Whist is a mad game when you get a winning hand and have to pass it on and sometimes you are not even alowed to speak. Maureen from Stoked is a tough card game leader so beware me hearties.


Tamed dinghies.

Saaremaa All Engined Up

2011-02-02T06:45:00.000+11:00

Its been a time since the blog update what with Christmas, New Year, Parkes Elvis Festival, a visit from Alan & Jess, Basil going walkabout and all so its time to continue ready for the Pittwater Cruise with Lake Macquarie Yacht Club Cruising Division.

Saaremaa received an early Xmas present when the new Nanni 29hp engine was commissioned on 3 Nov 2010.

Put me down below I refuse to work in the cockpit!

Its a lovely sparkling blue, smoother, quieter and with more prop power. A new prop shaft removed all the vibration hence this should stop killing gearboxes on a regular basis. A new 3 blade prop gives more push and stopping grunt.

The new prop was coated with 'pellerclean' so it will be interesting to see if it works.


Aah that's more cosy

A great job performed by Bruce Theodore of Coastwide Marine.

The new and shiny beast now has nearly 20 hrs on the clock and so its time to change the oil before the Pittwater Cruise.

One interesting fact about the quietness of the new engine means we can now hear the radio when down below. This must be what its like on a real boat???

Its goodbye to the old engine which was always very reliable at starting and running. It was just a pity about the bent prop shaft that caused all the grief for so long to the gearboxes. Michael will not miss the many happy hours spent in the back of the engine bay.

Basil (now nicked) and the prop.

As for the naughty person/persons who pinched Basil, my car @#$$$****!!!! but lets not go there.
Boris has taken over.

The Skippers View of our First Extended Trip

2010-09-24T09:43:00.006+10:00

Fri 24 Sept 2010

Essentials for Cruising
*Compatible crew (Annie is great company, even managing to put with Capt Michael Bligh for 3 months).
*Mandatory safety gear.
*Reliable autopilot (longtime helming is a major chore).
*Electric anchor winch preferably able to be used from the cockpit.
*All chain anchor rode, 50m minimum length.
*A spare anchor, preferably 2 spares with rode already connected (chain & rope).
*Jack lines and harnesses for going forward.
*Good refrigeration, not only can the beer and wine be kept cool but fresh food lasts longer.
*A method of charging batteries other than the engine, ie solar panels, wind generator or both.
*Jerry cans for spare fuel.
*Manuals to operate and fix systems.
*Backup GPS.
*Essential spare parts for the engine (in our case a spare gearbox was very useful).
*A lightweight O/B motor for the tender (not a 27 kg beast unless you are very strong).
*Spray dodger and bimini for protection from the elements.
*Charts and pilot guides (NSW, Alan Lucas; Qld, Alan Lucas, Beacon to Beacon, Curtis Coast, 100 Magic Miles).
*Boat licence (mandatory in Queensland for any vessel with greater than a 4 HP motor).
*Holding tank for sewage
*Some form of inside shower.
*Insect screens to keep out mossies and sand flies (itchy bitey scratchy without them).
*Small fan heater for use in marinas when it is really cold.
*Sense of humour for those trying times and a non grumpy skipper, (sorry for being a grump at times Anne).

Extras that would be nice to have
*Davits to raise the dinghy at night or on inshore waters.
*Wheels for the dinghy saves the back when the tide is out (we have them now we are home).
*A wind vane if you can get it to work.
*Chart plotter or laptop with nav program.
*Radar for night sailing.
*I am sure there are a lot more but that is all I can think of for now.

Statistics
Distance to Rosslyn Bay (our furthest point north) as the crow flies 600 nautical miles.
Distance covered by Saaremaa was 1600 nautical miles.

Length of cruise in days 91, of which 50 were in 8 different marinas, 28 were on anchor, 6 at jetties, 5 on moorings and 2 at sea.

Marinas varied in price from $27.50 at Gladstone to $50 per night at Port Macquarie for our 35ft vessel. The average price was $35 per night.

The engine was used for 260 hours of motor sailing and burned 470 L of diesel costing $630.

Lake Macquarie Yacht Club to Croudace Bay Mooring (Final leg of the voyage)

2010-09-23T03:58:00.000+10:00

Wed 22 Sept 2010

Up late at 0730, a luxurious lay in on the expansive V- berth and Mick skipper slept like a log snoring for Australia no doubt, (sorry Belmont residents). Annie crew jumped ship at LMYC to head for home and a comfy sleep but missing the joys of on board life (the sounds, creaks and rocking) was not able to fully attain this desire, (we may have to install a home boating simulator system).

Saaremaa at LMYC all spick and span with 'Mukluk' behind

It was a lovely sunny and calm day and Saaremaa was washed to remove the salt spray from the ocean and cleaned inside. Water from our normally dusty bilge was sponged out and and the bilge dried. The water must be from all the wet stuff coming over the anchor winch and entering through the hausepipe, (sealing with a plastic beg obviously was not effective enough so next time plasticine will be employed as a seal, this hint is from Kerrie & Martin of 'Jannali').

Croudace Bay Saaremaa's Home

Most of the extraneous cruising gear was taken home especially Brutus motor, the fridge emptied, clothes removed and then Saaremaa headed for the mooring in Croudace Bay at 1500. Motoring along with no swell or waves was like being back on a duck pond (and very nice too), the gearbox that seemed to be on the blink was OK and working well. As the bay came in sight Saaremaa's 'bed' (no not the seabed or lake bed) awaited. The mooring was relatively clean after a 3 month absence (a mooring fairy must have cleaned it) and by 1600 all was secure. The anti seagull nets were broken out and Saaremaa was left tucked up in bed (well almost) for a long earned snoooooozzzzzzzzzzz!!

Port Stephens to Lake Macquarie (The Home Run)

2010-09-21T23:14:00.000+10:00

Tuesday 21 Sept 2010

Rounding Cape Horn, or maybe Point Stephens Lighthouse

Its flat at 'The Cape' today

Another and the last 0500 rising, for a time, a quick cuppa as the boat is readied and its off at 0605. We dropped the courtesy mooring in Shoal Bay after a slightly rolly but not hummocky night, (for those in need of a hummocky night the Capricorn Coast is the place to be at Hummocky Island), and started motoring. Oh wonderful!! The gearbox starts its old trick of slipping above 1400 rpm until warm. By the time we reached the heads all was well (or at least wellish) as we were able to do 2000+ rpm without the gears slipping.

Saaremaa disturbing the birds

The day started off overcast (sorry no great sunrise picture) and the sea fairly benign with a 1m SE swell and no chop. Wind was very light and with full mainsail we were motor sailing at 5.5 knots. Raelene steered for most of the day. Around noon the sun was shining and the water was glassy with no wind and light swell. No whales were sighted and the welcoming dolphins took a while to turn up but did not stay long. Although Saaremaa did manage to disturb a flock of shearwaters using the ocean as a duck pond.

They are big aren't they??

We sailed through the anchored bulk carriers and only had to concern ourselves with one headed for Newcastle (shades of Gladstone again), but the vessel passed us 0.5 nm to port.

The scenic Moon Islet

Passing the very scenic Moon Islet (at least it looks scenic when home is very close). The Swansea VMR station was also a welcoming site.

Swansea VMR a welcome sight

Arrival at Swansea bar occurred at 1300 just after LT 0.45m at 1245 so the current was still running out as Annie steered us up the channel under full main with gearbox still behaving itself, we picked up a mooring and waited for a 1400 bridge.

A nice flat Swansea bar

Green means go through the jaws of ............!!

On our lonesome we held up the traffic but had no time to stop and sell calendars to the motorists (that's besides having no calendars anyway, but its the thought that counts).
The bridge opened to either welcome us in or grab us in a pincer movement. Fortunately the former was the case as we did not want to make the evening news tonight.

We motored up to the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club and there were thousands (tens actually) lining the dock to welcome us home but we could not see the PM in the crowd, such a disappointment Julia!! Kevin was there for Jessica after all. It turns out that the 'thousands' were attending a wake in the marquee BBQ area and not waiting for us after all. Well, well, such disappointment!!!

The jaws close and we are safely in the lake and home.

'Mukluk' a Fisher 32 motorsailer was on the dock in the same position as when we had left 3 months earlier in June. Not a long stayer apparently just a regular.

We unloaded the boat Annie crew jumped ship to sleep at home leaving the skipper to tend to Saaremaa. A lonesome dinner was had in the LMYC bistro and then it was back to tend to the home afloat.

Forster/Tuncurry to Port Stephens

2010-09-20T23:25:00.000+10:00

Mon 20 Sept 2010

Bye Forster/Tuncurry

Up at 0530 (a lovely sleep in), anchors away by 0715 and across the flat bar at 0730 ( a bit different to yesterday). The sea was relatively flat and the sky overcast as we headed for Cape Hawke and then on to Seal Rocks with the wind from the SW at 10 knots. Under full sail and motoring we were averaging 5.5 knots.

Passing Broughton Islands

The seas got up a bit, lumpy became the order of the day, so Raelene gave up the ghost and we hand steered in the fresh conditions. Just after we changed course at Seal Rocks the wind veered to the SE to aid our passage and we were soon scooting along at 6.5 knots headed for Port Stephens Heads on a SW course.

Whales were having a great time breaching and tail flapping about 200m from the boat apart from the young whale who must have been keen on checking us out as it surfaced 30-40m from Saaremaa's aft quarter. Fortunately it did not breach and jump on us.

Welcoming Tomaree & Yacaba Heads

The sunny weather came in and as we barrelled along back into familiar waters we passed through the welcoming Tomaree & Yacaba heads. Logging off with VMR Pt Stephens we picked up a courtesy mooring in Shoal Bay at 1600.

'Cremotime' again

Time for a few sun downers and then Michael prepared the crematorium to burn the steaks for our last BBQ before home. Shoal Bay looks lovely in the sunshine if a bit rocky but nothing like the wonderful Hummocky Island of the Capricorn Coast.

Yet another sunset over Port Stephens Head

Headed home to the lake tomorrow morning means up at the wonderful 0500 again!!

Laurieton to Forster

2010-09-19T21:48:00.002+10:00

19 Sept 2010

Yesterday morning in Laurieton

After a leisurely rise at 0530 we left the LUSC jetty at 0745. Motoring down the river we waved to the Marine Rescue people and were seen off by several foraging dolphins that had entered the river. The mainsail was raised and we approached the bar to see waves breaking right across the entrance due to the large swell. We did a 360 turn to let it settle a bit and then went for it. A bit of a roller coaster ride but no breaking waves in the 4m swell, unfortunately Michael did not have the camera going this time to record the event, (I was concentrating for a change)!!

Bye, bye pelican

Bye, bye Perpendicular Point

There was little wind and it was on the nose at SSW 10 knots for most of the passage until at 1400 the sea was glassy and the swell had dropped. Very English looking weather, overcast all day but no rain so no pictures taken.

We arrived at Gail McBurnie's favourite port, Forster/Tuncurry, crossing the flat bar on a rising tide at 1550 and were anchored opposite the fish co-op in Tuncurry by 1610. Anne set about a cook up and another gourmet meal was enjoyed aboard Saaremaa.

We were sorry to miss the people from Saaremaa Island who called around twice to visit us in Laurieton. On Saturday we were at the movies and on Sunday we were on the ocean. Please feel free to contact us via the blog if you would like some information regarding our yacht and its name.

Happy 61st To Alan Norwood

Coffs Harbour to Camden Haven (Laurieton)

2010-09-18T23:12:00.001+10:00

Wed 15 to Fri 17 Sept 2010

Not so tropical now

The wind and sea conditions looked good for the trip south to Port Macquarie and after lunch out with Anne's 'old' but younger friend Janet (sins of youth will not be mentioned here) it was decided that we'll be up at 0400 to leave by 0500 and first light on Thursday morning. However Michael's brainwave at midnight after sleeping for 2 hours and then laying awake for a half hour contemplating getting up at 0400 was, why not go now. What a, good idea, but as it turned out not the best.

Seabirds feeding frenzy

The cap says it all

We left the berth, entered the outer harbour and raised the main with 2nd reef already set in the pitch darkness managing to avoid hitting rocks or the anchored yacht then crossed out of the harbour using the lead lights at 0130. The sea was a bit swelly 2-3m from the south with a light SW breeze but by 0400 the wind was building and the swell had increased to over 3m, Saaremaa was taking white water over the bow, Anne was down below laying down to avoid nausea. By 0500 wind was 25-30 knot from the SW and the chop was making the sea quite uncomfortable and we were making 3.5 knots heading for Trial Bay to anchor up and await a favourable bar crossing into the Macleay River. As Anne has said 'whatever does not kill you makes you strong', however Michael was not game to speak these words about the conditions, valuing his manhood.

Not a knackered sailor

As the sun came up things were looking a bit better but the wind and chop were still knocking the boat around until 0700 when things calmed down, Anne surfaced and we decided to press on to Port Macquarie.

Perpendicular Point

The whales and bird life entertained us as the miles passed when we decided, as it was still only 1300, to bypass Pt Macquarie and head for Camden Haven 12nm south. Crossing a flat bar on a flooding tide just on HT gave a smooth passage as we motored up the river to the Laurieton United Services Club Jetty. With fenders all set for a starboard tie up Michael managed to stuff it up even though Kerrie and Martin from a Victorian Yacht 'Jannali' were there to help tie up. Going around and approaching against the tide made life so much easier with a port side tie up. (This tide business can be so tiresome at times)!! We were all tied up safe and sound by 1600.

LUSC jetty Saaremaa & Jannali

The LUSC jetty is described in Alan Lucas guide 'Cruising the NSW Coast' as rickety but it has since been refurbished and will fit two 45 ft vessels along it. The jetty is a free service to visiting boaties for 5 days with a key to the amenities having a $50 refundable deposit, a definite bargain for any boaties! Pelicans hang around the pontoon jetty near the fish cleaning table hoping to catch the odd mouthful.

Los Saaremaates at North Brother

Provisioning is well catered for with the shopping district a short walk away. Meals at the club are pretty good and reasonably priced, the town itself has a great location and the people are very friendly. A highly recommended port of call. BY 1930 Anne had already gone to bed and Michael clocked off at 2030, 2 knackered sailors, (Anne has the hat to prove it)!

Anne & Alan Willows

On Friday morning we walked up to town to get some bread and Anne's SMH calling in at the Historical Society Museum where the gentleman overseeing the place invited us to come along in his car to the top of North Brother for the views. His name is Alan Willows and he is a retired horticulturist with an encyclopedic knowledge of plants. He has lived in the area since the early 1950's and generously showed us around and invited us back to his home where he has more species of orchids growing around the wilderness garden, of which he knew all the names, than we have seen before.

Camden Haven entrance

Martin & Kerrie on 'Jannali'

Martin & Kerrie from 'Jannali' ,a Victorian yacht, were taken up to North Brother by another local who was delivery skipper and into his latter years. Laurieton is a very friendly and scenic place with a surprising number of eateries for a relatively small town.

On Saturday we went to the local cinema that is showing 'The Girl Who Played With Fire' an adaptation of Stieg Larsson's book. It's unusual to see first run movies in little country towns especially when it is not released nationally until 23Sept. The cinema is a real gem, a sort of mini State Theatre, that has an extremely varied program.

Wiggly Pig

The 'Wiggly Tail Butchery' and the 'Pied Piper' children's clothing store are a couple of interestingly named shops in town!!

The local Dragon boat crew

Dragon boat racing is a popular sport and we saw the crew of the local boat out for a regular morning paddle. the crew appeared to be varied in age from 30's to 60's hence there is some hope for Michael yet.

Only 102nm to Swansea and its off to Foster/Tuncurry in the morning on a fairly flat sea with light winds. Soon be home but a pity about the bridge, maybe we are not wanted back in the lake?? Oh well!

Laurieton Sunrise

Runaway Bay (Gold Coast) to Coffs Harbour

2010-09-15T18:16:00.000+10:00

Sat 11 to Tues 14 Sept 2010

Runaway Bay sunrise

Saaremaa resting at sunrise

Firing up the crematorium

The Gold Coast is 316nm south of Rosslyn Bay and 322 nm north of Swansea channel according to the GPS and as the crow flies, hence we are halfway home more or less.

The weekend was spent around Runaway Bay with a little side trip by foot up to Paradise Point for coffee on Saturday morning. Life in Paradise was just too hard to take, in the sunshine, along the coffee bar strip and just chilling out watching the passing parade!! Michael fired up the crematorium and burned snake, oops steak that was enjoyed aboard. Not a lot was happening aboard Saaremaa other than checking the weather, entering the way points in the backup GPS and planning for maybe Byron Bay, Yamba or, perish the thought, overnight to Coffs.

The one compensation for sailing overnight is you do not have to get up at 0500 for an early start

Annie celebrates another safe arrival

Bye, bye gold coast

Coffs Harbour was the chosen destination after much forethought and the fact that there is no bar. The BoM forecast was not the most encouraging with up to 30 knot winds and 3m seas predicted around dawn Tuesday in Byron waters. However the BoM wind map, Willy Weather, Buoy Weather and Tide Forecast all gave encouraging inshore conditions.

Cape Byron at dusk

Annie before the long night

We left Runaway Bay at 0900 logged on with the Seaway Tower crossed the bar at 0945 heading south towards home. A flat bar and sea with a light NE wind had us making 6 kts even with 2 reefs in the mainsail (caution rules aboard Saaremaa) and the engine on of course. It has been said that Saaremaa means motorsailer and after this trip it may well be the case. Our speed climbed to 7 then 8+ knots (maxing at 8.7 kts for a time) until 1500 as the fortuitous current pushed us on. Our ETA of 1600 Tuesday at Coffs was a bit conservative seeing as we were all tied up and done by 0950 (we work on averaging 5 kts which is 30 hours by our reckoning as in when we went north in July). The motor was on for the entire 25 hour trip and we occasionally had the genoa joining in the fun but wind and seas were light the whole way.

Michael before the long night

Michael After the long night

We saw a lot of whales blowing, breaching, tail and arm (maybe flipper) flapping and waving. At one time Saaremaa had to slow to allow a couple of whales to cross our bow (right of whale, 50 ton beats our 7 ton). A few dolphins toyed with us during the night but did not stay long. At 0300 a big ship was coming straight for us, at 8nm distance it looked like an island on the radar until after shifting 20 degrees to starboard and a little later the lights could be clearly distinguished. It did not take long before the ship passed us by to port as it must have been making 20+ knots.

South Solitary Island with a rock arch and lighthouse

Our settling on 2 hour watches and the much warmer and calmer conditions meant that Raelene could steer full time, Benny Boy could rest on his back perch and Tina Turtle hung around the cabin. We were less buggered upon arrival due to the calm conditions and the faster time. When South Solitary lighthouse appeared with its light flashing just before dawn we knew that Coffs was not far off.

Giving Saaremaa a 50L tot of diesel

Saaremaa was a bit thirsty after the long motor sail and had used 50L of fuel so she was given a good drink.

A strange rig on this aluminium yacht

There is an interesting looking aluminium ketch in the harbour with the strangest looking rig we have seen on a sailing vessel and we can't quite work out how the mainsail goes up.

An ocean sunrise

It is only 182 nm to Swansea so we are not too far from home ( a couple of nights on the ocean and we are there)! On Thursday the plan is to head out early for Port Macquarie about 70 nm south so its back to the old up early, early again but this time leaving at 0500.

Mooloolaba to Gold Coast

2010-09-11T21:17:00.000+10:00

Thurs 9 to Fri 10 Sept 2010

Thursday morning up at 0500 again? No just kidding instead a lay in until 0700, more luxury. Anne went to get her SMH paper and then had a haircut while the worker skipper got the boat ready for sea. (Michael is available to cut hair at any time just call him up as long as its a no.4 you are after). Sadly Anne does not think a no.4 is quite her style but Michael thinks it may look good, if not it would at least save some money. Anyway moving right along.

A whale spout if you look closely!

The forecast was good for a trip outside Moreton Island overnight and direct to the Gold coast seaway with 15-20 and then 20-25 knot NE winds. We worked on 5 kts to arrive at the Seaway entrance at 0600 Friday morning. The forecast started off well and with 2 reefs in the main we left at 1230 Thursday with Michael managing to leave the berth without major calamity. Hauling up the mainsail, down the channel we passed a small trimaran stuck against a nav' beacon but were past him before we could do anything and with a motor boat nearby thought he would be OK (hope so or Michael's a ratbag).

On entering the bay the waves were a bit bumpy (wind against tide) but no breakers and we headed out happy to have the 2nd reef in because it was 20kts not 15. Setting course for the top of Moreton Island we unfurled some genoa and were broad reaching at 6-7 knots just what we were not expecting as we needed 5kts to reach the Seaway at 0600. When you get a great sail go with it we believe as they are few and far between. This was the place we had our first decent sail on the way north.

More whale stuff with good eyesight and a magnifying glass.

Whales were seen near a whale watch boat and in our photos you can just make out the blows (with a magnifying glass). The video shows it a lot better and we will bore people with this later. As the sea built and the wind went to 25+ knots with a strong wind warning issued for 30+kts & 3m seas we chickened out on the outside passage and headed down the NE Channel to Peel Island in the dark. Averaging 7 knots with the wind and tide plus utilising the way points from 'Beacon to Beacon' we arrived at our destination and anchored in Horseshoe Bay at 2230 somewhat stuffed. After a chicken sandwich and glass of turps it was sleep time.

Sunrise over Moreton Island at Horshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay behind us and the ketch from the sunrise photo

Friday at 0500 the alarm went off (false alarm Michael read the tides!), a sleep in until 0630 with another lovely sunrise. There were 10 boats in the anchorage when we left at 0800 sailing with the genoa up at 6-7 knots across the Lake Macquarie like bit of Moreton Bay. Annie was steering in her new gloves and relishing the fresh conditions as we headed for Canaipa Passage with the tide in our favour.

Helming Annie in her new gloves.

RQYS annex Canaipa Point

Passing the RQYS annex at Canaipa Point we trundled on towards Runaway Bay on the flood tide at 6kts. Passing a delightful steel boat that could be a Michael Project (I don't think so!!)

Not a project for Michael

We continued on to what may be called millionaires row on Russel Island with big jetties and big houses. 'Rhum Punch' looked comfy on her mooring as we passed by.

'Rhum Punch' we will have some of that!

The tide is quite high here.

A drowned forest along the passage.

This offending red beacon should be to our starboard side Michael!! Oops!

Michael nearly misses the port beacon being busy photographing the fishing camp while steering, depth 1.6m until back in the channel.

Safely around both red beacons with no mishaps. Phew!!!

Jumpinpin is the change over point for the tides and we got down to 5.3 kts until picking up the ebb tide flowing south and then back up to 6+ kts.

Another near calamity for the eagles nest shot. Phew again!!!

The Queensland Maritime people are wildlife friendly as can be seen by the eagle nest being allowed to stay while another red beacon was installed (Michael nearly runs aground taking this picture, depth 1.5m).

At 1300 we arrived at Runaway Bay, it was raining after being overcast for most of the day, and we were given our former berth of A15 plus as valued customers (we think) the discount price of $30/night. After a shower and tying up the boat early dinner and then zonk ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Mooloolaba and surrounds

2010-09-09T08:16:00.000+10:00

Mon 6 to Wed 8 Sept 2010

Cool Annie

Not up at 0500 today instead a lay in until 0700 what luxury! Monday was still a little overcast from the day before but the rain had stopped so after breakfast we wandered into town along the beach amongst the fitness aficionados, never before have we seen so many runners, canoe paddlers and speed walkers in one place, (perhaps there is a fitness fetish in Mooloolaba).

Young Endeavour

Anne gained her Sydney Morning Herald fix after we found the last copy in the 3rd newsagents we went to.

Twilight Young Endeavour

Sunset over Mooloolaba Bay

After a quick shop we sauntered back to the marina and noticed that the sail training ship 'Young Endeavour' was anchored in the bay rolling from side to side as it was beam on to the light swell. Most uncomfortable for those on board no doubt.' Young Endeavour' was a Bicentennial gift from the British Government, as we recall.

Harbour entrance

On a visit to the local chandlery to buy a clip to stow the anchor more securely Michael discovered a set of dinghy wheels for sale (these would have been very useful over the past few weeks, however??) and promptly snaffled them up, at $150 a bit 'spensive for Mr tightwad Michael but no doubt good for the back and hence cheap at the price. Annie received the wheels as another romantic, but late birthday present.

Paddlers

The sun came out and shone by mid afternoon and our wet weather gear was now drying out, the boat washed clean after the downpour and all was looking lovely again. A walk up to the breakwater saw lots of people around unlike 24 hours earlier when we saw nobody as we entered the harbour.

Not a Ferrari

On Tuesday we hired a car, 1000 cc of pure power in the form of a Daihatsu Sirion (bit tinny but it went OK) and charged off to the hinterland. Its an amazing feeling this travelling at 45 knots with no sails.

Renovations invited

The towns of Maleny and Montville are quite pretty although the English Pub, the Connemara Irish (and for some unknown reason also Scottish) shop, plus the Clock Shop are all a bit twee.

The drive along the ridge with views to Mooloolaba and Moreton Island is spectacular. Several wineries exist in the area however we did not find one open, probably just as well!

Lunch for Los Saaremaates

We stopped at Flaxton Gardens an ex winery in Flaxton for an excellent lunch with spectacular views out over the 6 rows of vines left over from earlier days to the coast. At $26 for a set 2 course lunch with 3 choices of entree and main it was good value and "Very tasty my dear" as says Mr Titmus in 'Paradise Lost'.

A view and a half

Noosa Heads

We returned to Mooloolaba via Noosa and then wondered why we bothered apart from the Heads at Noosa proper. We are sure its a lovely place if you like canal estates and shopping, enough said.

Tina Turtle the new crew

The newest member of our crew is Tina Turtle who joins us as the only non tacky thing we could find in the Steve Irwin shop. That is if a cuddly furry turtle is non tacky??? She just hangs around the saloon in Saaremaa.

Wednesday was a washing and lazy day with dinner at the Surf Club an excellent roast carvery deal, we're stuffed full.

Thursday is looking good for an overnighter to the Gold Coast outside of Moreton & North Stradbroke Islands leaving at 1300 with ETA o6oo Friday we'll see.

Gary's Anchorage to Mooloolaba

2010-09-07T23:09:00.002+10:00

Sun 5 Sept 2010

Wide Bay Bar looking benign.

Up yet again at 0500, tea, toast, mainsail up, anchors away and we are trundling out of the anchorage at 0545 heading for Wide Bay Bar. There were a few spots of rain so the wet weather gear was ready but other than a bleak looking sky things were OK as we motor sailed down Wide Bay Harbour with the tide at 6 to 7 knots.

It may look pretty flat here but it was not.

The bar looked pretty flat as we approached waypoint 3 but soon looked rather lumpy as we were making 7 to 8 knots heading for waypoint 2 with wind against tide. The still picture does not show it but the video Michael took as he steered the bucking bronco Saaremaa through the choppy swell says it all. we started our bar crossing at 0800 and reported to Coast Guard Tin Can Bay that we were safely at waypoint 1 and across the bar at 0830 (Swansea is a doddle by comparison, its so quick to cross).

The wind was in our favour and we started to sail for Mooloolaba with the head sail poled out and goose winged. It took Michael ages to achieve this and then the wind veered from NE to NW so the pole came down again (is it not always the way?).

This is a shy Mooloolaba whale going down.

This Urangan whale is coming up. It blows every 20 minutes.

The seas and the wind eased so it was back to motor sailing again and we were making around 6 knots to arrive at Mooloolaba before dusk. Dolphins were greeting us and a couple of whales even put in an appearance, see pictures (yes they are genuine fibreglass whales not fake ones). Benny Boy sat the day out (he's saving himself for another time) while Raelene put in another sterling effort steering us all day.

A little drop of rain to wash the decks and us!

The weather remained overcast with wind from the NW until a change to the SE at 1400 and then at 1600 it started to bucket down with rain. What a difference a day makes (there could be a song in that) only 24 little hours. On a close reach Saaremaa's boom is superbly positioned over the cockpit to allow copious amounts of water running off the sail onto those below needing a shower or not (any visiting crew will not be charged for this extra service!)

Here we are at the Sunshine Coast with Old Woman Island just visible.

In the delightful photo of our arrival at the Sunshine Coast one can almost make out some buildings just beyond Old Woman Island. The sun seemed somewhat obscured and as we turned into the wind to drop the mainsail the rock and rolly swell gave us immense pleasure stowing the gear. Somehow the anchor ended up swinging off the roller due to the main halyard tripping the circuit breaker to on and the anchor down switch getting a brief knock. No damage done and the anchor was put safely back on the roller (it now has an extra clip to stop it moving forward until released).

The entrance to the harbour as we would like it. We were just a day too early.

The harbour entrance we could just make out as Anne steered for it following the leads in. Our berth was a tight turn in, with fortunately a slack tide but wind on the aft quarter pushing us towards a 40 foot Beneteau, Michael managed his usual "cockup" (excuse the French) but did not hit the Beneteau. In the pouring rain there were few (actually none) helpers around, how very unusual!!! Once safely tied up Anne logged off with Coast Guard Mooloolaba reporting that we were safe but damp.

After a shower and dinner we both nodded off in the saloon, being slightly stuffed or knackered even, then went to bed listening to the rain. Anne did not set the alarm for 0500, such a shame!! ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz

Burnett Heads to Garry's Anchorage

2010-09-07T01:31:00.000+10:00

Sat 4 Sept 2010

Burnett Heads to Garry's Anchorage (Great Sandy Straits)

Burnett Heads sunrise

Up at 0500 again, a bite of toast and a cup of tea, then its up with the main and anchors away to meet

Saaremaa into the rising sun

another spectacular rising sun. At 0600 we left the other 2 boats in the anchorage and headed down the channel into the rising sun passing 'Shogun' a very butch looking racing yacht on its way in (maaaddd!!).

Butch 'Shogun'

10 birds a roosting on a port marker

The birds were enjoying a fine roosting on the channel markers as we passed by completely unperturbed by our presence. After leaving the shipping channel a little early on our way north previously we erred on the side of caution and went a little further before turning right and off to the Great Sandy Straits, destination Kingfisher Bay or Ungowa.

Benny Boy earning his keep

The wind was blowing NE at 15kts so we cut the motor and gave Benny Boy (the Monitor wind vane) a chance to strut his stuff. Benny Boy had a go for about an hour and did a good job but had to move over when the wind died and the motor went on. Raelene (autopilot) took over and Benny Boy watched how it should be done.

Annie with Fraser Island in the background

The seas were calm and in bright sunshine we chugged along at 5.5 - 6 kts until we reached the Fairway buoy and the flood tide picking up speed. Raelene steered all the way down past Kingfisher Bay to the Mary River entrance way point where we were now doing 7 kts.


Boonlye Point

Our mainsail was still up and lacking boldness or courage we turned into the breeze and dropped it before proceeding on through the windy narrow and supposedly shallow parts of the Great Sandy Straits. The realisation that we had fortuitously flooked the flood tide and timing for Sheridan Flats (apparently the shallowest part but we had 5m of water depth) and Boonlye Point (where the tide floods the opposite way) made us press on for Garry's Anchorage which we reached as the sun started to set, quite spectacularly. We came in through the N entrance to Garry's past several boats and anchored up close to our previous position of a few weeks before at 1740.

Annie silhouette

We did 69 nautical miles from Burnett Heads in just under 12 hours ie just under 6kts average which is pretty good for Saaremaa. A feat that we feel was as 'Stoked' Maureen might describe "Heroic"!!
Just as an aside "How are you Fred & Maureen, still rumbling in the jungle?"

Sunset over north entrance to Garry's Anchorage

We saw no whales in Hervey Bay (the whale watch boats must have a bunch of tame whales that come out when called) however we saw turtles and one huge one at Boonlye Point laying on his/her (difficult to tell gender from the boat) rubbing paws errr flippers together.

1770 to Burnett Heads (Bundaberg)

2010-09-03T22:35:00.001+10:00

Fri 3 Sept 2010

A 'goat boat' at the entrance to Round hill Creek

Up early again with anchors away (as in weighing the anchor) occurring at 0600 as Annie motored out of the creek and Michael raised the mainsail. We were making 5 knots when three fishing boats roared past us at considerable speed with a couple going either side at the same time, such considerate people. At Round Hill Head there was already a goat boat paddler and 2 fishermen on the rocks. Some people are very keen on their water activities, including us we guess.

Round Hill Head

Captain Cool or just Michael

The sun was rising as we left the creek and the headland looked particularly pretty in the morning sun. The sea was calm with a low swell and it was cool but not beany weather cold. We were motor sailing at 5.4 knots for the next hour and then settled down to a regular 5.8 knots for the morning. Raelene steered most of the way but had a hiccup and a rest for an hour between 0900 & 1000 (lack of sleep we think) but then managed the rest of the day untroubled.

Annie and the glassy sea

The sea was glassy at times with no wind at all and very little swell it was so still that dolphins were leaving rings on the surface when they dived. Besides a couple of pods of dolphins we saw a couple of large turtles swimming along but no whales.

Whiling away the time

We had SE winds at 5knots until the forecast NE 10-15kts turned up at 1330 and then it was ENE 10knots. Aaah! the vagaries of the wind. When the wind did kick in a bit we were doing 6 -7 kts but still motor sailing.

Still whiling away the passage time

Mr Universe or Michael during the first stages of Mooloolaba Madness

Around 1100 we had a period of madness when we thought it might be possible to go outside of Fraser Island straight to Mooloolaba. Anne changed course for the top of Breaksea Spit however after 20 mins when Michael had finished plotting the route and calculated the distance ie 209nm and 42 hours at 5kts sanity returned and Anne steered back towards Burnett Heads.

We entered the Burnett river and anchored at 1500 close to our previous spot 3 weeks earlier. Anne logged off with Marine Rescue Round Hill unlike the evening earlier when we did not log off with Coast Guard Gladstone and they rang Anne's mobile to check on us. Although we had logged off with VMR Round Hill, here there is no tracking sheet following you. The obligation is to log on and log off with each VMR or Coast Guard separately.

Mooloolaba Madness returned again as Michael contemplated a shorter route (192nm & 38hrs at 5kts) around Fraser Island by crossing Breaksea Spit in a channel just north of Sandy Cape (it looks alright on the chart). On asking advice from VMR Bundaberg it was recommended to go north of the spit around the lightship On calculating again sanity returned. Great Sandy Straights here we come again.

Pilot boat and the bad cat "Cat with 2 masts clear the channel"

'Bad Cat' as Anne calls it

Over the radio was a message that the 'Sam Eagle' bulk carrier would be leaving the sugar terminal shortly so all vessels should clear the channel. Entertainment in the Burnett river was provided by the Bundaberg Pilot boat directing "The cat with two masts keep clear of the channel" and he was not too polite with the direction (it did not seem to work as the cat still proceeded on to the Bundaberg Port Marina. Also heard was"White trawler clear the channel", and still not particularly polite about it. This message was also ignored because very shortly the trawler rounded the bend at about 10knots and proceeded down the channel to open waters.
The cat with 2 masts was an unusual design with a mast on each pontoon, a different take on a ketch or yawl that's for sure. Probably owned by Dr Two Sticks Two Hulls!!

Tug 'Ballina' & bulk carrier 'Sam Eagle'

The bulk carrier soon came into view with a tug in company while the pilot boat charged down the river keeping the way clear. It was surprising how large a vessel enters the Port of Bundaberg.

Michael proceeded to cremate our steaks as the sun sank while Anne prepared the chips and salad. Another gourmet dinner washed down with turps and kero. No lovely sunset to finish today's blog as Michael was busy getting the coals ready and forgot.

Gladstone to 1770

2010-09-02T23:11:00.000+10:00

Thurs 2 Sept 2010

The beauty of concrete

Up early, again!!, a quick shower ready to go then Michael checked the bilge. Oh ho!! where did this water come from in our normally dusty bilge? Never mind about that for now (tastes not too salty so maybe a bladder leak) we dry it up and get going to catch the ebb tide.

Palm tree tropical ambiance

We left at 0640 contacting Gladstone Harbour Control and then trundled down the shipping lane (on the edge of course) past all the dodgem beasts tied up and loading so we were safe from them. As we passed the concrete silos we noticed the tropical ambiance of 3 palm trees incongruously placed on the dock (aah! its truly a tropical paradise when even the concrete surrounds are beautified).

Five tugs a glinting

Five tugs were glinting in the morning sun awaiting a days work as we passed two monsters tied up at what we guess is the alumina loading or unloading wharf. The black hulled ship registered in London looked to be in a better state of repair than the grey ship registered in Monrovia, (not really a strange situation for a flag of convenience ship).

Two ships a docking

One lonely crane

The lonely crane looked a bit out of it with no work to do and as there was plenty of room we went in towards it to put up the mainsail ready for the expected NE winds (you'll be lucky, and we were not, we seem to be blessed with the SE although there was some extra east in the wind later).

A monster looms

Adonis looming larger

Nice bow wave

Dodgem boat began soon as the bulk carrier 'Adonis' loomed and grew bigger but we were by now outside of the shipping channel to avoid a scene. These are very big beasts up close and personal but not so personal as to see the colour of the pilot's eyes.

A cracking stern

Continuing on out of the control area we radioed our exit to Harbour Control and then headed for Bustard Head. The sea was pretty calm with a 1m swell and the sun shone brilliantly all day but the wind remained at 5knots from the ESE. We were cruising along at 5+ knots and the motor was running smoothly (apart from the noise and vibration) all day (aah! there is nothing like a good motor sail which we are quickly becoming experts at). With the amount of motor sailing we have done so far, with no doubt a lot more to come, we might as well chop the mast off and become a motor boat, except having the mainsail up does keep things quite steady so maybe we'll keep the stick!!

On the way we saw several large turtles and lots of what must be bilge oil from the ships producing long ribbons of yellow droplets but no whales or dolphins. Alternatively the ribbons or slicks could be algal blooms but it is strange that it only occurs around the areas with lots large ships.

Clews Point entrance to Round Hill Creek 1770

On arrival at 1770 we asked if there were any special instructions about entering Round Hill Creek but other than a green buoy being upside down all was normal 'just follow the buoys' was the advice. We anchored at 1510 opposite the pub outside of the channel but could not go ashore for a beer without a swim as we were too slack to lower Muhu.

1770

1770 is a lovely spot but we will be leaving early again tomorrow to catch the forecast NE breeze to carry us down to Burnett Heads and Bundaberg.

1770

The fastcat 'Spirit of 1770' came in during our sundowners on her way back from Lady Musgrave Island. Lady Musgrave is a lovely spot but a bit off our route so its no go this time around.

Pork

Michael's crematorium was in fine form as he charcoaled the pork and another gourmet dinner was had aboard Saaremaa washed down with a lovely glass of kero and a flute of turps (ie red kero and white turps).

Other boats in the anchorage added to the charm of the place.

A sunset finishes off another lovely day.

Rosslyn Bay via The Narrows to Gladstone

2010-09-01T22:06:00.001+10:00

Wed 1 Sept 2010

Bye Bye Rosslyn Bay

Leaving Rosslyn Bay at 0645 other cruisers waved us off as we passed by, how very social of them.

Bye Kerry

Bye Megan & Bruce

We headed for Cape Capricorn but the forecast NE wind did not eventuate so after 2 hours of slogging to windward at 3 knots with sail and motor we gave up the Cape Cap quest. The re-evaluation soon saw us heading for Sea Hill Peak, the entrance to The Narrows and we were then doing 6kts. Amazing how the swell knocks back the boat speed and having a beam reach benefits one's speed!! On checking the tides we thought we could pass through the Narrows without stopping and we did.

It was interesting to hear the yacht 'Murraweena' from RPAYC logging on with Keppel Sands Coast Guard and giving their destination as Broken Bay. The Coast Guard had to ask where Broken Bay was since it is not a regularly used destination around these parts. We resisted the urge to give our destination as Lake Macquarie and sail straight through.

Cattle Crossing in The Narrows (or shallows)

The water got a bit shallow around the cattle crossing with 1.7m of water. Apparently it dries to 2m here at low tide so its not a good place to run aground. As we entered the shallows the tide had already begun to turn and we were down to 5.3 kts with the engine working quite hard but as we passed out of the shallows the ebb was helping and we soon reached 6 to 7 kts again.

Coal Terminal

On Reaching Laird Point, at the edge of the Harbour Control Anne radioed in and we were informed that there were no ship movements so that was one worry we did not have (ie 100,000 tonne dodgem boat).
Anne then radioed Gladstone Marina to see if they would still be open at 1730 and the lady kindly waited for us to arrive. Michael entered the berth without any great dramas (getting better all the time); there's a song in that somewhere, 'Los Beatles' perhaps? We know its not Elvis and he has not made an appearance since Pittwater in February.

Sundown over The Port

Passing the coal loading terminal and 2 bulk carriers tied up we were close to the marina as the sun dipped in the west.

Dinner at the yacht club was most enjoyable as the 2 members otherwise known as 'Los Saaremaates' wandered up and back. A restaurant/cafe at the marina would save the tired old legs but both closed some time ago when the rents were more than doubled by the Harbour Authority.

Tomorrow its up early, we have to get the ebb tide, and then off to 1770 with once again NE winds forecast, we will see!!!

Rosslyn Bay

2010-08-31T22:39:00.002+10:00

Sun 29 to Tues 31 August 2010

The hole in the wall

Leaving Great Keppel Island at 0940 we were tied up and in a pen by 1130 after sailing with headsail only at 5-6 knots in winds of 20+ kts and a 2m swell. Annies expert helming kept the boat comfortable as the swell tried to do otherwise. Crewman Mick was reduced to trimming sails for optimum speed until taking over the wheel to negotiate the marina. A successful entry through the hole in the wall and then to the berth was made with no dramas or bashing of the dock (wonders will never cease!).

The protective rock

Our berth was 2 down from Penny & harry's 'Free Spirit' safely tucked up in her pen. Harry must have 6th sense, as Anne recieved a phone call from the marina office about collecting something from Harry. Thinking that he probably wants us to bring a generator or something back (such uncharitable thoughts we have) Anne was surprised when Crystal gave her a bottle of wine from Harry (the 6th sense is from knowing that Anne had run out of white and was now into Michael's red, thanks Harry!!).
Keppel Bay Marina bills itself as the friendly marina and we would certainly agree with that. The restaurant at the marina does very good breakfast and lunch but the dinner menu is not only pretentious but a bit pricey!

On Monday after defrosting the 'fridge' (which did start working again after its Friday 13 spasm) we Yeppooned in the courtesy car (what a civilised Marina!) and stocked up at the butchers, Woolies and surprise, the grog shop. The car was really flying at 30+ knots and that was against the wind. On return to the marina we restocked the boat ready for the sail towards home.

Lazy Bones says goodbye.

After a few drinks at the yacht club we dined at the motel restaurant (excellent steak) with Bert And Lana from 'Lazy Bones' a very comfy Riviera powerboat from Sylvania Waters. A pleasant evening and fine meal was had by all.

By Tuesday it was time to get Muhu and Brutus back on board and tied down ready for the ocean. The afternoon was consumed by fixing a seal on the engine water pump (Mick the Mechanic may have triumphed again, but time will tell).

Kerry from Tangara kindly bought us some bread during his big day out in the courtesy car and Megan and Bruce from Winkali arrived from The Narrows. On the sailing circuit one tends to run into a number of the boats encountered elsewhere ( its not surprising really).

Its off to the south tomorrow winds permitting.

Great Keppel Island - Leekes Beach

2010-08-28T18:26:00.000+10:00

Fri 27-Sat 28 August 2010

Mastflagorama

Kerry from Tangara visits

Our whinging must have worked and the weather people gave us some great weather again, sunny and calm.
Saaremaa was feeling a lot better too after all that fresh water washing the decks. With the better weather there was a bit more movement of boaters in the anchorage.

Kerry from 'Tangara' a Duncanson 37 came over to see what the flagshow was all about on Saaremaa and another veesel passing asked "Whose birthday is it?"

Flags Ahoy

Since this is our furthest point north for the trip Saaremaa was dressed with flags for the occasion.
The fore flags are from the top: Australian Red Ensign, Union Jack, Polish National Flag, Estonian National Flag, Jolly Roger, Boxing Kangaroo and The Eureka Flag.
The Union Jack is for Michael's Pommy heritage whilst the Polish and Estonian flags are for Anne's parents nationalities.

Aft signal flags are Starboard TOJKEBDHAQTOJKE, Port TOJKEBDHAQBDHAQ, so no message as such, just a pretty flag string.

Up the creek with paddles

After our flag fun and coffee we took a trip up the creek and there we were with a paddle (each actually). The crabbing and fishing is said to be good but we were not to find this out since we are not expert at either.

A few eerie mangrove roots and the odd ray plus our old 'friends' the sand flies inhabit this creek. Plus we also ran into Kerry from Tangara.

Kerry from Tangara

Eerie roots of mangroves

Leekes Creek entrance

Stranger on the shore. (there could be a song in that!)

Fore!!

A trip by Muhu & Brutus to middle Island gave us a walk on the beach and Michael a chance to play 'Keppel Golf'' with a palm frond and coconut. No sharks or tigers allowed.

Flow through.

Only 5 boats anchored overnight, it must be Michael's cockpit crematorium driving them away, (pork chops this time, a pity we have run out of spuds).

Follow through!

After another moviefest of 'Mama Mia' followed by 'Yes Minister' we were ready for bed and a good snozz.

We woke to another idyllic day (thank you weather people again) so trotted off to the top of the island to a snorkelling spot.

The wind was making it a bit cool so we hung around for a time untill it eased off and after the local charter cat had left with their daytrippers. Jacqueline Anne and Jacque Michael Cousteau donned their gear and proceeded to scare the fish.

Another top day is finished with a lovely sunset.

Great Keppel Island

2010-08-26T18:48:00.002+10:00

Tues 24 to Thurs 26 Aug 2010

Ah!! The Tropics

Awaking to overcast and misery conditions with the wind from the SW we decided to move from this southern beach anchorage we being the last of 2 boats along with 'Insatiable II' a USA registered yacht but Austalian built glassed wooden yacht. We motored around to Leekes Beach on the North side of the island and dropped anchor along with 'Insatiable II'.

The little tree we passed on shore was having a great time too!!!

A windswept friend having a good time.

'Insatiable II' of Ann & Jim Cate

The wind dropped altogether and the swell rolled in from the NE rolling us uncomfortably all day until late afternoon. With a forecast of 20+ kts from the SW we were reluctant to move around to the western shore so put up with the roly poly. We were invited aboard 'Insatiable II" where we had coffee and a long chat with Ann & Jim Cate who have been cruising for 12 yrs around Australian waters. Their yacht was a newish 46 footer with beautiful woodwork down below. The rolling even on a 46ft boat was still uncomfortable but it looked worse on Saaremaa across the way. Ann & Jim were an interesting couple with a wealth of cruising knowledge.

Yacht Envy at sunset

A large navy blue 60+ ft sloop with 4 spreaders and 2 satnav domes on the lower spreaders was causing us some boat envy however we resisted the urge to sticky beek too closely. The owners of that boat are probably not ex teachers!

It was good to see the sun just before it left for the night.

The sun did eventually come out just for a great sunset as we moved further into the bay to catch some breeze and avoid the rolling. Gradually more boats entered the bay until 16 were counted for the night.

Wednesday was cloudy and overcast all day so we resisted the urge to go swimming in the still clear but less inviting waters.

Another Tropical Morning????

Thursday we awoke to the gentle sound of rainfall which continued all day. Thank you southerners for sending your cold wet weather to these tropical waters but really that's enough now. Anne & Michael are getting cabin fever with these less than balmy conditions of "Tropical Weather????"
We have watched several movies, episodes of Yes Minister and FawltyTowers, and are 1 game each in the great Canasta championships. Definitely time for the sun to come out!!
A swim would be good to save on water as we are really getting into the 2 litre showers.

Greeting the lovely Tropical weather???

Michael dressed in his full tropical outfit to take in the ambiance of our surroundings!?!??

Cape Capricorn to Great Keppel Island

2010-08-24T17:19:00.001+10:00

Sun 22 to Mon 23 August 2010

YellowPatch

Waking up to yet another beautiful day we had a lazy late breakfast and then headed for Yellow Patch 1.5nm away. On entering the shallow entrance at half tide and falling it was difficult to see where to go (this was even after scoping it from the heights of Cape Capricorn previously) so not wanting to spend the day on the sand we followed the old adage 'of when in doubt give up' and we gave up on Yellow Patch.

Ready for a Hummocky night.

Leaving Hummocky Island

Heading for Great Keppel with only the headsail up we were only making 4kts. Decision time - do we put the motor on and head for Keppel, or stay at Hummocky Island and leave for Keppel tomorrow? Wrong decision as it turned out. Initially a good anchorage but by early evening we were rocking and rolling for Australia (and cooking a roast dinner!!!) It fair near caused a wine glass to topple now that would have been a disaster!! An email from Penny almost got us ready to leave at about 9pm but we decided to tough it out. Oh what a night!

Still leaving Hummocky Island

Distant Great Keppel

At 6.30am we upped the anchor and headed for Great Keppel - sailed all the way making good time. Sun shining, aqua blue waters - this is what we came for. Dropped anchor just off the ex-resort and performed the Herculean task of getting the outboard motor organised. Brutus was eventually grafted onto Muhu so we could go ashore. Beaching near low tide and close to the 'Oh so life like' shark jaws we wandered up the beach in search of a shower (pongy that we were). No deal, shower heads were removed because people were drinking the bore water or so we were told, it even sounds like bulldust! After a compensatory ice cream we wound our smelly way around to the Pizza Restaurant (closed for renovations) and so had lunch at the cafe washed down with a couple of beers.

What a bathroom!!

Our onward tour of the camp ground lead us to a doubtful looking shower block which was in need of some fixing up. Check it out we believe that it is disused these days but who knows what a bit of spit and polish could achieve?? Marquis Bathroom Products here is a marvellous opening to for a few new vanities etc???

"Hotel Capricornia"

On sauntering back we took a look at the resort which closed in 2008 and is awaiting an upgrade to 5 star pleasure palace status. From the pictures it looks like "Hotel Capricornia, where you can check out but never leave" apologies to The Eagles.

Macho Man

After Michael wrestled with the shark jaws (he just could not resist the urge) it was back to the boat for a swim and a shower on the the back deck. The water was crystal clear and it is the first time we have felt like a swim off the boat (temperature pleasant and good water quality with no dangerous greeblies around). Anne had her Steve Irwin moment after spotting a ray and quickly left the water. Michael being a fearless soul (or a wuss take your pick) took to the water to check out the prop and hull growth. Snorkelling along the length of the chain to the anchor which was only in about 1.5m of water it was disconcerting to see tyre tracks on the sandy bottom from a weird 3 wheels boat. It reminds one of tides and that maybe we were pushing our luck here in the shallows. On the way back to the the transom I passed Anne's friend (a pretty small ray). We showered 'au naturelle' on the back step but have no pictures to distress the world (a huge sigh of relief has been heard).

Erosion of beach sand

After waiting for the tide to rise a little we retrieved the anchor and motored around to Long Beach on the S side of Great Keppel Is for what would be a nice calm night. However the wind got up to 25+ kts from the N, which was not forecast, it was a bit rocky but not hummocky.

'Laser' anchor light???

Gladstone to Cape Capricorn

2010-08-23T22:45:00.000+10:00

Sat 21 August

To those who received the email from the story of SaaremaaSailsOn in the foreign language, Estonian. The story is from an Estonian Newspaper from Kuressaare the capital of the Island of Saaremaa. Just so that people do not think the paparazzi are after us we make note of this point.

Cape Capricorn from NE

Leaving Gladstone marina at a leisurely 0900 we motored across the harbour, after logging in with Gladstone Port Control, and up the winding narrow and shallow North Entrance between Curtis and Facing Islands. Holding the Curtis Coast pilot book in one hand and the wheel in the other we traversed from buoy to buoy with Anne checking the shape/colour for port/starboard plus keeping a depth lookout. It is easy to come unstuck and mistake the correct buoy as we found out with the depth falling from 4m to 2m then 1.5m, motor into low as we quickly reassessed the buoys and headed for the correct one back in the channel. With an ebb tide to speed our progress it was no time to be taking the mud (care Michael!). Further along depth was only 1.4m next to a port buoy (perhaps a little more room off is required next time), thank goodness for our shallow draft. The place where it was supposed to be shallow (ie Farmer's Reef 0.8m datum) turned out to be 3.5m deep and caused us no problems as we followed the leads out of the channel.

Light and houses of Cape Capricorn

After escaping the channel unscathed (and the gearbox running like a champion) we were able to set sail for Cape Capricorn 18nm away. It was a leisurely sail in the light conditions and we put the motor on as speed dropped to less than 3 knots. Cape Capricorn is a pretty impressive headland with its light and houses standing out above a bluff wall of volcanic rock, we rounded and anchored in its lee at 1500.

We launched Muhu and paddled ashore climbing the track to the lighthouse and were rewarded with magnificent views plus a couple of beers from Rockhampton Amateur Radio Club members who were involved in a radio link up with others at light houses around Australia for the weekend.

The photo seat with Hummocky Island in the background.

Another photo seat shot

'Sir Richard' or Shauny and dinner.

The caretaker of the houses (which can be rented out about $1300/week) was named Shaunie but we reckon he is Sir Richard Branson avoiding the Virgin limelight. The mud crabs here are quite large. Check out these being murdered for dinner.

While on the headland we checked out the likely entrance to Yellow Patch in the distance on the right and then it was back to Saaremaa for dinner and a nod. It was a bit swelly as the waves refracted around the cape but not too bad.

Needs a little maintenance?? and some!!

Cape Capricorn Transport Services may leave a little to be desired in these vehicles. However there are others somewhat more sand hill worthy than these.

Quite a good view from up here.

The peninsular view shows Yellow Patch on the right and further down with a lovely sandy beach to the left.

Cape Keppel and Peak Island in the distance. Looking NW.

Gladstone-boat maintenance

2010-08-20T22:18:00.000+10:00

Tues 17 - Fri 20 August 2010

Mike the Mechanic

Annie's birthday present was an engine service for Saaremaa (who says romance is dead) and then dinner out. Mike the Mechanic left the gearbox for the next day, following the old adage 'why do today what you can put off until tomorrow' cos' its a bugger of a job.


Good one Bad one

By Wednesday afternoon the new but buggered gear box was out and on the bench alongside its old but refurbished mate (I hasten to add refurbished by Michael so lets all keep our fingers crossed). The engine alignment on the stuffed gearbox did not seem to be a problem so why it decided to die again is anyones guess. After spending all day hunched in the confines at the rear of the engine with knees and legs aching (I won't be doing this when I'm 80 as it hard enough at nearly 60) it was time for steak on the electric BBQ's. This time the gearbox did 120 hrs before pphhwwt!! The good one is on the left and the bad one on the right. Note the special use of a large chart table come workbench.

Hawaiian Ham Steaks

Thursday saw Michael refreshed and ready to install the old Hurth gearbox and align the engine. All went well and 'sea trials' were carried out tied up in the marina pen. The gearbox engaged forward & reverse gear with no problems. Another go at the electric BBQ's saw tropical ham prepared to perfection (pineapple obligatoire).
A lovely bag of Bud Naked topped off the meal.

By Friday Michael finally connects the gear cable, installs the engine rear cover and replaces all the cruising gear. Only 3 days for a 1 day job (I work slowly but hopefully thoroughly). Electric BBQ'd steak yum, yum. why waste the gas or charcoal on board?

On Saturday having no need to vote we are off finally to Cape Capricorn and then Yellow Patch. The winds look favourable and we will take the North Passage short cut to speed the journey.

Pancake Creek to Gladstone

2010-08-19T23:07:00.000+10:00

Sun 15 - Tues 17 August 2010

The Crematorium in preparation.

After a windy Sunday of northerlies sweeping through the anchorage where we decided it was too rough to launch Muhu let alone put Brutus outboard on. We decided that in the morning we would head off to Cape Capricorn and then Yellow Patch with the wind direction coming from the SW it should be a good sail.
Michael had another go at cremating the meat, but this time failed, and burned the pork chops to perfection.
Master Chef eat your heart out!

The cremated meat ready to eat.

We had an earlyish start in the morning, up at 0600 anchor up at 0715. On motoring out of the anchorage we noticed that the gearbox would not engage fully and kept slipping (back to the ongoing problem). It was decided that Cape Capricorn would be abandoned for today and it was off to Gladstone to fix the problem. We had already logged on with VMR Gladstone for our passage to the Cape so we radioed our change of destination. It was a beautiful sunny day with a flat sea and 10kts of wind from the SW. As we entered the Gladstone Port Control area we radioed our presence to the harbour authority (failure to do so when over 10m long can incur a fine) and monitored Ch13 as stated in the directions.

An ugly duckling.

Eyes on the road Annie MV Jupiter can't catch us!

We followed the way points from the Beacon to Beacon book which kept us out of the shipping channel as a bulk carrier 'MV Jupiter' passed us. Travelling with the tidal current had us making 6.5 kts and we arrived in Gladstone marina at 1315. Michael managed to bash his way into our pen putting another scrape on the paintwork (bloody wind from the starboard quarter), at least that's Michael's excuse.

The marina is very reasonably priced at $27.50 per day for a 35ft vessel however the paperwork here is the most detailed we have come across with a 5 page list of terms and conditions and quite a bit of information required. Boating licence number, Insurance number and insured value of vessel, home address & tel no, holding tank fitted, 240v power needed, names of all people living on board, size and brand of underwear (well maybe not the last bit)! Every other marina was just interested in the money and little other detail.
The marina precinct is the most attractive we have come across with park lands and BBQ facilities although the port operations around are a bit noisy during the day with a pile driver going bang bang bang.

Auckland Inlet

Not the Swansea Bridge

Crossing the river into town we came across the lifting bridge (shades of Swansea here) except the bridge lifts on the hour on demand 24 hrs by pulling a cord or ringing the bridge control. the sad demise of a dumb pigeon occurred as the bridge lowered trapping it in the workings, its mate hopped out but the other was too late. Town is a 15 minute walk and has banks, cafes and a Woolies. Dinner for Anne's big 58 at the Library Square Restaurant was good value and we were both well sufficed if not stuffed.

Lights of the Tanna Coal Wharf

While Michael did the business with the gear box I headed off on the local bus to the "big" shops - quite an experience!! I was the only person who didn't know every one else on the bus, but was made to feel welcome. Didn't quite know how to respond to the "only use for a cat was for crab pot bait" dialogue so kept my head down while a local took on the argument!! There are some interesting if not strange characters around!

Stillness and serenity

I have to give the Gladstone Marina the **** so far for amenities, overall appearance, proximity to transport and shops; a good coffee shop nearby would have earned it the extra *!

Burnett Heads to Pancake Creek

2010-08-15T18:57:00.002+10:00

Sat 14 to Sun 15 August 2010

Burnett Heads sunrise

The sun was coming up as we and every other boat seemed to join the procession out of the Burnett River to head north or south. We turned north along with several other boats-a bit to soon a turn north as it turned out because the shoal waters north of the entrance we crossed with 2m depth. Its a good thing we are a shoal draft boat. On plotting our course later Michael saw the shoal ground on the chart that we crossed so carefully (it was lucky it didn't become Captain Mick strikes again ie the bottom).

Anne dressed for Tropical Sailing conditions!?!?

The wind was at 10 knots from the SW so we had full sail and the motor going for the 60nm trip to Pancake Creek. After Anne enjoyed her tropical sailing go at the helm it was decided that Benny Boy would not cope so Raelene took over for most of the day. We were making 6+ kts to make sure we got to Bustard Head in plenty of daylight to avoid the rocks (always a good thing to miss).

Winkali zooms past

Megan & Bruce

Winkali with Megan & Bruce onboard did not catch up with us the day before (cos Saaremaa was zooming) but surprised us when they came past at noon (we thought they were ahead of us already).

Bye bye Winkali

You can always count on an Adams to make good passage times. Winkali is an Adams 36.

When the wind came in from the NW at 1300 we had to exert ourselves and change over to the other tack, pulling on ropes and everything. The arduous life at sea means that sometimes Michael has to remove his slippers in the cockpit and put on boat shoes.

Mr Cool of the Fashion World, such style!!

The fashionable sailor this year is wearing burgundy leggings from Supre and a burgundy top from Lowes exclusive range plus a daggy old pair of slippers to set off the ensemble. For safety a Burke vest is included when offshore but we won't mention the socks.

On entering Pancake Creek at low tide we followed the buoys around down the lead lines over the shallow bit and anchored after a trial go with the sandy bank 2 boat lengths off. We think its always good to come in at low tide then you see where the shallow bits are when anchoring. There were a dozen boats in the anchorage and plenty of room.
A BBQ on the newly bought charcoal saw Michael turn out 'Black Assed' steak to accompany Anne.s chips and salad. Tip Use less heat or less time Michael.

Sunday morning was time for a bit of a lay in (none of this 5am stuff) and another inside shower. Sorry to the faint hearted for Michael in porno mode but as one can see there are clean bodies on Saaremaa, sometimes! Our apologies to the world for Porno Boy. (Picture removed in the interest of good taste by Michael and so as not to frighten people).

A late breakfast early brunch was enjoyed and we stayed on the boat all day as the forecast 15kt NW winds turned out to be 20-25kts and it was a bit choppy.

Tomorrow Mon 16 Aug we are off to Cape Capricorn 42 nm away so we hope the forecast SW 15kts is what comes in otherwise its another day in Pancake Creek.

Hervey Bay to Burnett Heads (Bundaberg)

2010-08-13T23:13:00.000+10:00

Friday 13 Aug 2010 (aka Black Friday)

Another sunset on the water for drinkies

Well black Friday or not we upped and toddled of to Burnett Heads at 0645 anchoring in the river at 1515.

It was a beautiful day and we put up the sails just after passing Urangan Pier (yes that's the one in Michael's supposed arty shots in a earlier blog). The motor went off and we sailed all the way to the river entrance. After a lumpy and confused sea early on we had a great sail reaching all the way and even achieved 7+ knots which is pretty good for Saaremaa (normally she dawdles along at 5kts, probably cos' the skipper has not set the sails properly).

The eerie look

A later arrival and the 'shag' trawler.

Several other yachts were already anchored including a trawler that looks like a shag drying its wings. The masts in the marina over the wall look a bit eerie (maybe there is something in this Black Friday malarky). Sundowners in the river were a very welcome addition to the day (just like every other day in fact).

Yep its Black Friday alright cos' the fridge that has been running brilliantly since we left has just decided to go on the blink.

The plots have been done and its off to Pancake Creek tomorrow 60 nm away so its another early rise on the agenda. Winds are forecast SW 10-15 kts so it will not be as exhilarating a sail as today's. 60 nm = 12hrs sailing at our normal speed of 5kts so it may be time for Benny Boy (the windvane) to earn his keep.
An early rise so the Saaremaates are off to bed early. This may be our last post for a few days since we are unlikely to to have internet in Pancake Creek or Yellow Patch.

Hervey Bay, Urangan, Still.

2010-08-12T21:32:00.000+10:00

Thurs 12 Aug 2010

We were all set to head off to Burnett Heads (Bundy) this morning but alas the strong wind warning for Hervey Bay & waters south caused us to change our minds. 30+ knots is not really our cup of tea so we are marooned for another day here in the marina. The sunny weather is back after a couple of misery days.

Where's Saaremaa? Huge prize for spotto!

Tips for eating at the Hervey Bay Boat Club; the dining room opens at 5.30pm and if you want to eat this is the time to get a table because it fills up by 6.15. The alternative is wait until 8.00pm when the dining room has cleared out. It took us 4 goes before we finally sussed this out and managed to get a roast dinner last night. Fortunately we did not have lunch so eating at 5.45 was not too bad for us. Early to bed for the morning getaway.

Where's all the water gone?

Whilst here we got new AGM house batteries (2 x 120 amp/hr) at e very reasonable $670 installed from Skinner Marine Electrical. These new batteries charge up much more quickly than our 6yr old lead/acid ones.
It was probably a good move so as not to have them fail in an out of the way place.

The weather is looking good for our passage up to Burnett Heads tomorrow. So its off to bed for an early rise.

Maryborough

2010-08-10T16:55:00.000+10:00

Mon 9 August 2010

Anne Poppins

Michael and friend Mary P

Our parcel did not arrive so we toddled off to Maryborough on the bus for a day out and a cultural visit to Mary Poppins land. The birthplace of Pamela Travers MP' creator.
('Chim chimeny, chim chim, cheroo' , 'supercalifragilisticexpialodocious' and all that stuff).

Mary River Marina

Maryborough is 19nm up the Mary River and the tides are considerable hence dinghying ashore needs a long painter from the public landing jetty. The shore at low tide was a lovely looking gooey mud which was probably good for skin mud packs but a bit on the messy side for walking through. Anchoring in this stuff would give great holding but cleaning the anchor and chain on retrieval would be a wonderful time!!!

Gooey sticky mud

The local cafe name at the marina says it all 'Muddy Waters Cafe'. The marina has only a limited amount of space, which is taken up by locals, hence anchoring for visiting yachts is almost mandatory. The chandlery at the marina is reasonably well stocked unlike the one at Hervey Bay.

Maryborough is the original port city for the area and has a number of historic old buildings plus more than a few pubs that are now closed or used for alternative purposes. one was even given over to the Australian Electoral Commission as a polling booth so we took the opportunity to vote absentee (how does the saying go? 'vote early and vote often'). Not that 2 upstanding citizens such as ouselves would ever contemplate such a thing. Our duty to the pollies has been done, so we will not have to scrabble around for a polling station on election day.

Anne with some wooden friends

Maryborough is a good excursion by bus from Hervey Bay and it can even be cutural although we just had a wander and found a good lolly shop.

This is our first day without sunshine for a couple of weeks. Life is just too tough!!

Admiral Michael

Hervey Bay; Urangan

2010-08-09T08:10:00.001+10:00

Tues 3 to Mon 9 August 2010

I Give Up

I promise to be good from now on or at least not as bad.

A mini Fraser Island

A powerful RIB

A week at Hervey Bay Marina for our 35ft yacht was $231 and hence not bad value with good facilities and good restaurants on the dock.. Watching the whale watch boats come in & out everyday was interesting. Some skippers of these boats are clapped at the end just before passengers disembark, but so far this has not happened aboard Saaremaa (obviously the crew do not realise what a stirling job the skipper is doing). It is amazing how many boats are involved and how many people turn up every day with several of the boats going out twice a day and the big speedy RIB 'Awsome' going 3 times a day.

A less powerful RIB

With 1200 HP at its disposal' Awsome' is a tad bigger and gutsier than Muhu so we will not race it out to the whales and at $500,000 we are not thinking of upgrading our RIB just yet.

Aah!! Beautiful yellow

The nearest good shopping for provisions is a 15 min walk to Urangan Central and there is a bus every hour. Torquay (we did not see Fawlty Towers anywhere nor Basil or Sybil). However 'Asbestos Manor' painted a delightful yellow is one mans obsession with council authority and maybe he is related to Basil!!! It is a pretty expensive way to have a whinge.

For a mere $5 million one could own such a property according to the sign. Apparently the owner lives in the house and is upset about some development or other. The neighbours must be truly impressed to live next door to such a tasteful property.

When the tide goes out, it goes a long way hence the long pier for at Urangan for the export of timber, sugar and other goodies from the area in earlier times.

Its a bit hard on the bum

Whilst here we bought 2 new 120 Amp/Hour batteries and ordered screens for the hatches to keep the bitey critters out. These sand fly bites are the itchiest we have come across. Waiting around one has to relax hence Michael is working hard at it in the hammock.
The Adams 40 just behind in the picture is in a very sorry state. Its a round bilge steel yacht that has languished in the pen for 6yrs with severe rust and bits just falling off. Why someone would keep paying $5000 a year for a boat to rust away and not be used is a mystery. However on our travels we have come across a number of boats in the same situation.

The pylon has shrunk

Big tides here are shown by the poles in the marina with the caps up in the sky at LT but around chest high at HT, 4m tides are a bit more than we are used to.

The top is right up there!! Its Grown.

A bit of Michael's arty stuff follows.

Kingfisher Bay to Urangan (Hervey Bay Marina)

2010-08-08T22:46:00.000+10:00

Sat 31 July 2010

We zoomed ashore in Muhu tying up at the jetty and went in search of fresh bread, a hot shower using more than 2L of water and a beer. Boarding Muhu from the dock was fun all except for the puncture, which we realised had occured as we motored back to the boat. Another fine effort from 'The Master of Disaster' alias Michael. Fortunately we have inflatable dinghy repair goo and stuff on board unlike at Pittwater. Forward planning is at times extremely useful!!
The picture is of the evil jetty ie the bit with all the poles sticking up.

Sundowners were enjoyed on deck with the Saaremaates looking cheery, it was not just the wine!!

A tasty dinner of pre-cooked quiche was washed down well with a drop of turps. Well not that tasty a bit bland in fact unlike Anne's scrumptious cooking. Woolies will just have to try harder. The turps made it palatable though.
As the only boat in the anchorage North of the jetty we were unworried about our anchor dragging into others and as it was a very calm night this was not a problem anyway.

Sun 1 Aug

Another beautiful sunny day greeted us although Muhu's port pontoon looked a bit floppy. A quick fix of the hole with special goo and a patch before breakfast gave a bit of time for the seal to heal. This time its the beach and not the dock!!
We finally went ashore at 1400hrs for lunch at the resort. The dinner menu looked good (although having not sampled it we cannot vouch for it) but we would not recommend lunch unless you only want a burger and chips. My fish and chips was straight out of the freezer packet (Birdseye perhaps) and Annes's satay chicken was straight out of another packet. It reminds one of Fawlty Towers when if you try to change your order Basil lets you know that chef's just opened the tin, hence no possibility of a change of order. Just as well we did not order a Waldorf Salad as we are sure there would not have been any 'Waldorf's'.

Back on the beach the tide had gone out a bit so it was a 30m lug of Muhu & Brutus to the water. Yes that's Muhu the one furthest from the waters edge. Luckily 2 meaty blokes took pity on us and gave a hand into the water. The anchorage had filled up with 5 other boats when we got back.

Mon 2 Aug

The anchorage became a bit choppy in the morning so we decided to head for Hervey Bay Marina at Urangan. We sailed up the passage intially making 5 kts on the headsail alone a peaceful and pleasant sail in the sunshine. The wind gradually died as we were in the lee of Big Woody Island and our speed dropped to under 2kts so on went the motor for 10 minutes until wind filled the sail again. On watching the big whalewatching cats coming out of Urangan across the short cut, that is only recommended with local knowledge, we felt that the local knowledge was now ours and took the short cut too. With no depth problems encountered we were tying up in the marina at 1400 and Michael berthed Saaremaa unscathed, (another great first for Saaremaa!!).

Inskip Pt to Garry’s Anchorage and beyond.

2010-08-04T00:47:00.000+10:00

Wed 28 July 2010

The wind was blowing at 20+kts from the East which made the Inskip pt anchorage a tad breezy. It was a choice of either Tin Can Bay or Garry's Anchorage. After considering the tides we upped anchor at 0850 and headed for Garry's on the Eastern side of Fraser Island 14nm away.

As we motored out of the anchorage, the last boat floating, except for a large trawler who was obviously sheltering from the outside waters weather, we decided not to check out the Wide Bay Bar, which we are sure would have been interesting, but headed North.

As we entered the channel in Wide Bay Harbour the genoa was unfurled and we were soon zooming along at

7.7kts as the flooding tide carried us North. By the time we reached the anchorage the tide had started to change and we were down to 4.5kts. At 1100 we anchored 30m from shore lifted Muhu into the water and went ashore for a walk. Anti-biting stuff for the sand flies and mossies is a must. Hatch screens would be useful too (must get some soon).

We met Megan & Bruce from Winkali ashore, catching up for a quick chat and then wandered off in search of a coffee shop(its only a 30km walk to Kingfisher Bay Resort) in which case a coffee and defibrillator may be in order. Perhaps another day for the coffee.

The signs on the shore say to be wary of the saltwater crocks and the dingoes. We a saw a lone dingo scavenging on the shore but no crocks (its the ones you do not see that get you!!!!). The water did not look all that inviting for a swim anyway, sorry crocks! To end the day what initially looked like a great sunset turned into a bit of a fizzer with only a bit of godliness rays about it (ie beams of light from the 'heavens'). Dinner was an exquisite concoction of smoked turkey, which tasted more like ham steaks, and pineapple rings left over from Pittwater. So Tropical Iron Chefs, let it be known that new contenders have entered the ring!!!

Thurs 29 July

After a dead calm night the anchorage emptied leaving only Winkali & Saaremaa until we were joined by a cat called Rock On, so we did having drinks onshore for the spectacular sunset with the mossies and sandflies. It was then back on board with mossie coils and citronella lamp alight to ward off the evil critters. Earlier in the day we were feeling strong enough to restle Brutus our 5HP and 27kg outboard onto Muhu (next time it is definitely the 10kg Yamaha). What were you thinking Michael???? It was time to see if the motor would start and hey presto on 2nd pull it roared into life so we zoomed off up and down the creek with nowhere much to go. Our first BBQ on board of lamb and chips was followed by a big snozzzzzzz for the night.

Frid 30 July
Awaking to another lovely day, Michael in his wisdom decides the tides are right for the trip up to Kingfisher Bay.

Wrong!!! We were about an hour late leaving and hit the ebb tide which slowed us to 3kts so it was decided to turn back to Garry's. Oh well at the batteries got a good charge.
Note the artistic work of the crabs with their sand ball creations on the beach.

Sat 31 July
Another go at the trip north to Kingfisher saw us hit the flood tide from the north but this time we did not chicken out and plodded our way up across the shallows of Sheridan Flats which were 5m deep. We had the tide against us nearly all the way to Kingfisher Bay (so much for trying to use Brisbane tide data up here, it doesn't work very well!!!) Must buy the correct tide tables!

Inskip Point

2010-08-01T13:24:00.001+10:00

Mon 26 & Tues 27 July 2010

We spent all day on anchor and on the boat because it was a bit too windy to lower Muhu (our dinghy) into the water. We lazed around to recover from the trip from Mooloolaba.The time was well spent arranging Saaremaa's luxury indoor shower facility ie, a shower curtain hung from hooks in the head, a large red plastic bucket and the deluxe model pump garden spray pack.
Using this set up our first indoor showers were achieved for a sum of 3.5 litres of water for both of us. You cannot get much greener than that. One has to enjoy a curtain cuddle as there is not much room in the bucket for the curtain and a body.

Another great first for Saaremaa is achieved!!
Two clean bodies.

Note the tasteful colour combinations of shower curtain, bucket and pump pack that are all harmonised together for that total 'Better Boats & Gardens' look!?!??

Winkali arrived in the late afternoon and anchored further out towards the channel.

Michael's great idea to up anchor and move to a more protected spot proved a less than great idea as we passed over shallows of 1.4m thus deciding to abandon the plan and were hit by a squall of rain just before we re-anchored at the spot we left 30 minutes before. It was OK Anne stayed dry below as Michael whipped off the jeans to keep them dry.

Another lovely sunset with the Inskip Barge finishes the day.

Mooloolaba to Great Sandy Straits

2010-07-27T22:24:00.001+10:00

Sunday 26 July 2010

Up at 0330 for a quick shower, a cup of tea and a piece of toast. (It sounds a bit like a line from 'Matthew & Son' as in the Cat Stephens song). We cast off the lines and motored out of Mooloolaba Harbour at 0525 in the bleak rainy darkness to make sure we'd get to Wide Bay Bar on a rising tide before darkness. (Cruising is truly pleasurable at times and then there are the other times).

With wind on our port quarter from the SW at 10-15kts we unfurled the genoa and made 5-6 kts with the engine going. The sea was still a bit lumpy with a 2m swell following causing a bit of a wallow and the sky was somewhat bleak but as the piccies show 'Los Saaremaates' were in good form even if a little chundery.

Later the wind changed around to the SE at 15kts steady and we even managed to turn the engine off for 1 1/2 hours of peace and quiet as we approached Double Island Point. The sea had settled down and we toddled along at 4.5 - 5 kts for a time then the engine went on again once we got below 4kts.

The sea and sky look so lovely in the photo, probably a bit like the current NSW weather. The dolphins did their thing escorting us for a while and the whales put in an appearance, fortunately not like the one off CapeTown in South Africa.

Wide Bay Bar was an interesting experience following the waypoints given by the Coast Guard it took 20 minutes at 6kts to cross from the first WP until we logged off safely inside Wide Bay Harbour at the third WP. It was lumpy with confused cross seas but fortunately no breaking waves and many locals were coming back in across the bar so conditions must have been good (all things are relative to what one is used to). No pictures of the bar as it was a bit busy checking for way points and keeping the heading.

We cruised on up the channel at 7 kts with the floodtide and anchored inside Inskip Point in 5m of water close to the shoals along with several other cruising boats. It was a pretty location but one would not think so from the photo.

Safe and sound at anchor we had dinner and went to bed at 1900.

Mooloolaba

2010-07-27T21:29:00.000+10:00

Tues 20th to Sat 24 July 2010

What a great place Mooloolaba is with lots of eateries and coffee shops down the road from the marina. The beach and bay are perfect for a swim in weather warmer than 20C, mind. Note that Anne is not ready for the water as we take a short cut along the compacted sand of the shore. A lovely stroll along the boardwalk brings you out near the Surf Lifsaving Club which has roast dinners (yum but we missed out). The fishing co-op, which was right next door to the marina, had great seafood and excellent chips, which will always get Michael's vote.

Entry to Mooloolaba harbour is well marked with a non problematic bar due to the sand dredge working constantly to remove any build up of sand and replenish the beach. Coast Guard Mooloolaba are a short walk from the marina and have a sheet with the latest waypoint updates for Wide Bay Bar (which can get a bit treacherous at times). The waypoints in 'Beacon to Beacon' are not current due to the shifting nature of the sands. What else would one expect at the bottom of 'The Great Sandy Straits' besides a bit of sand shifting around.

Beautiful sunny weather for the next 3 days saw us out and about taking in the ambience of Mooloolaba. No cultural activities here but a stroll up to Alexandra Headland took us to where the mast of HMAS Brisbane looks out to the final resting place of the now dive wreck 3nm offshore. HMAS Brisbane's bridge and control room are located at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Anne the sailor is gracing the mast support, once again wearing another stunning outfit.

Along the forshore drive is the Anti-Hoon measure signpost which we thought a very novel idea. Perhaps there should be more of it, especially when those rowdy LMYC CD's are out and about!!!
On checking the weather for the trip north we decided to leave at 0500 Sunday morning, hence a rainy Saturday meant resupply at Coles, fill the water tanks and the gas bottle, then pay up ready to ship out. The rain stopped us from walking down to the Surf Club for a roast dinner so we had to settle for a seafood extravaganza instead from the Fishermans Co-op. Michael was so stuffed with food he could not manage all of the chips. Was it the dozen oysters, calamari, prawns, and the mahi mahi fish that were just too much for the belly that left insufficient space for the chips?? (We will never know).

Bruce & Meagan from Yamba in 'Winkali' an Adams 36 we met in manly and again in Mooloolaba. They are on their way north also.

Michael supported by Anne plans another great sea voyage Saaremaa style with a glass of 'Ribena' for sustenance.

Anne has a glass of 'lemonade' and as responsible sailors we always double check our passage plan (the next day) especially if the' turps' has been out and about.

Manly to Mooloolaba

2010-07-20T20:59:00.018+10:00

Tuesday 20 July 2010
Bye bye 'Privateer' sleeping happily in your pen.

We awoke to the sound of rain pitter-pattering on the deck at 0100hrs. Luckily it stopped before we left our pen at 0300hrs. The air was dead still and the engine was not needed to exit the pen.
Motoring out of Manly harbour the light on the port marker had gone out (new bulb needed) but we managed to stay on the correct side down the channel to our first waypoint from the Beacon to Beacon book. GPS navigation in the dark is an amazing technology (poor Capt Cook who navigated without it). Anne was a bit nervous, with good reason, as all the waypoint were entered in our GPS by Michael (oh ye of little faith).

Motoring across Moreton bay towards Moreton Island in the blackness was most unlike Lake Macquarie as several large ships were at anchor: it was more like being off Newcastle. By the time we were on the Eastern side of the bay the dawn started to break so we put the mainsail up and unfurled the genoa and were making 6 knots (aah for the peace and quiet without the engine).

The ebb tide took us along at up to 8 knots a speed which Saaremaa rarely reaches.
Anne had a particularly enjoyable sail see pic. (No seriously she was enjoying it, Michael).
For the first time on this trip we managed to do most of it under sail alone and reached Mooloolaba crossing the flat bar at 1300 hrs which equated to an average speed of 5.5 knots.

Several large boats were awaiting the pilot to enter Brisbane, who then arrived and we played dodge ship with them as they moved off. Michael noticed later that it is not recommended to pass across the pilot boarding area in the 'Beacon to Beacon' (as we did). Bugger me, its a bit like the Military Exclusion Zone there is all this open sea and the shortest way is straight, across why not? Because it becomes a great game when you are looking down the anchor holes and you may feel somewhat vulnerable. We survived.

Entering the marina pen was once more a challenge with a little scrape on the starboard side as Michael bashed his way into the berth (Its a good job Saaremaa is a tough steel boat with Michael at the helm).
The sunset was absolutely amazing with the 'Mackerel Sky' clouds and the fiery sinking of the sun.
The two stuffed little Saaremaates tied up, booked in and then conked out for a while.

Brrrr!! Not Tropical Sailing

2010-07-19T08:59:00.002+10:00

We are glad its not like this anymore.

It was not like this lovely Cambodian weather the Elephant people Jennifer & Paul enjoyed.
Tip: Be kind to your mother or the mahoot!
An in joke for the Grays.
Sorry to any blog viewers that did not do the Norwood Budget Tour of Cambodia/Vietnam but the itinerary is open for the NBT to the next destination, sign up here (at your peril!!!).