Perfect sailing conditions
Sun 05 Apr 2009
Loaded up the new CouchSurfers and Tyson still hanging on, we headed out into the night for a perfect sail to Nara Inlet. Germans lasses Meike and Dani insisted on an evening dip as soon as we dropped anchor in the very protected back corner of this bay.
"Splash a little louder" I suggested, as I made it clear about the danger or shark attack at this location after dark. While the chances of being in a car crash are still far higher, I did not want to loose anyone on my watch.... and thankfully I did not.
The next morning, we visited the cave paintings near by and ventured further to find the water hole beyond with some going for a refreshing dip.
Shortly then under sail again, we headed south on a nice Easterly that tempted. By evening we were tight to the beach at Shaw island to make the most of the sunset with some champagne.
The guys were great. We headed back out to deep water to anchor for the night after some fun in the shallows, including person on your shoulder fights, pass the beer and aqua aerobics.
Next morning, peoples were excited about heading for Whitehaven Beach and we made way via the passage between Lindeman and Shaw ISland on what was a very perfect way. The guys chipped in with some painting and other chores. Tyson was a great help always.... a man of action, you tend to get swept up.
Sailing onto anchor at Whitehaven, we were soon on the beach for soccer, sand scuplting (very curious) and photo opps. The boat was a nearby swim and I had to coax the guys back onto the boat after 3 hours to sail for Cataran Bay.
Early Cataran morning, the tide had already come in too far, so the snorkelling was not that good. We then had a brisk sail around the Wood Pile and into Maureens Cove, we all ended up in the water looking at the coral and fish, brown and other.
It was once again difficult to depart, but we make a late departure for Airlie Beach as the winds increased ahead of some less interesting weather.
The trip was fantastic. We covered a lot of water, mostly under sail! and the new friends that I have a worth vouching for.
