Serena-T

Fri Oct 26 3:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 21 6.853S 149 13.494E
Run: 22.7nm (41.1km)
Avg: 4knts
24hr: 95nm

Well we made to Mackay and the motley crew are still alive and kicking but a little wobbly on their feet. Catering by the quartermaster continues to be of high quality, and should be continued on returning to WA. John has had to request additional baggage allowance so he can take his xxxx home with him . A fish was hooked today, but released again as it didn’t seem to like the taste of the lure.

That’s all folks until the next big adventure.


Thu Oct 25 21:16 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 47.336s 149 16.425e

Quartermaster has finally worked out the Gin measurements


Thu Oct 25 18:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 47.336s 149 16.425e
Run: 36.5nm (66.1km)
Avg: 4.6knts
24hr: 109.5nm

Anchored at Beautiful Brampton. Resort has been closed for 8 years, and can be yours for $20m. Accommodating 160 guests, two pools, golf course, airport, 56 staff and managers accommodation. Some minor renovation required!


Thu Oct 25 10:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 17.857s 149 04.037e
Run: 1.2nm (2.2km)

Up and away surfing through Solway on 3 knots tide.


Wed Oct 24 18:45 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 16.879s 149 04.445e
Run: 4.1nm (7.4km)

Chaulkies Beach restaurant for tea.


Wed Oct 24 15:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 14.410s 149 01.690e
Run: 10.4nm (18.8km)

Hill Inlet cafe for lunch


Tue Oct 23 20:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 8.172s 148 54.725e
Run: 0.3nm (0.5km)

Hobnobbing with the rich people, and crew doing chores


Tue Oct 23 18:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 7.946s 148 54.837e
Run: 31.2nm (56.5km)
Avg: 4.5knts
24hr: 107nm

Nara Inlet for the night.

Will photo if there’s internet, but me thinks we will be hidden from the phone waves

Steak for tea, so hopefully not too windy so the Weber gets hot.


Tue Oct 23 11:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 3.594s 148 26.364e
Run: 0.6nm (1.1km)

Off to the Whitsunday’s to chase the rentayacht crowd.

Fish cakes last night very good.

Skipper had a bath so smells a little better now.

Wine bottles got smashed!


Mon Oct 22 10:30 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 04.115s 148 26.337e
Run: 82.4nm (149.1km)
Avg: 7.2knts
24hr: 172nm

Arrived at Shag Islet.


Sun Oct 21 23:00 2018 NZDT
Speed:
8
knts
GPS: 19 18.022s 147 28.195e
Run: 41.6nm (75.3km)
Avg: 9.3knts
24hr: 223.5nm

Cracking along at 8 Knots now.

Quartermaster has now been promoted to cook. Excellent rissoles on tonight’s menu.

We caught our fishes daddy a while ago, but it bit through the wire leader and took off with my lure. That was my favourite lure too. I hope he chokes on it!


Sun Oct 21 18:32 2018 NZDT
GPS: 19 05.668s 146 52.236e

John’s on the tea at the moment.


Sun Oct 21 18:32 2018 NZDT
GPS: 19 05.668s 146 52.236e

John’s on the tea at the moment.


Sun Oct 21 17:30 2018 NZDT
Speed:
7
knts
GPS: 19 05.668s 146 52.236e
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)

Well Magnetic Island survived our onslaught. And they did not run out of beer, so we have had a rest from the xxxx that John brought on board!

Today we felt a little lethargic, so hiking up to the fort was vetoed, and went in search of coffee instead. Found a place with the greatest coffee in Picnic Bay.

Weighed the anchor this arvo, and heading for Shag Islet, should be there in the morning with current wind forecast.


Sat Oct 20 15:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 19 06.657s 146 51.536e
Run: 25.6nm (46.3km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 163.8nm

Anchored in Horseshoe Bay for night or two. Lookout Maggie the boys are in town!


Sat Oct 20 11:15 2018 NZDT
GPS: 18 48.534s 147 05.136e
Run: 21.5nm (38.9km)
Avg: 7knts
24hr: 167.4nm

The apprentice quartermaster is reinstating his credibility. Fish for lunch. Fish for tea. Fish for supper. Fish for midnight munchies. Yum.


Sat Oct 20 8:10 2018 NZDT
GPS: 18 32.701s 147 15.514e
Run: 86.1nm (155.8km)
Avg: 7.8knts
24hr: 187.9nm

Early there. Weaving back in through the reef, first sign of daylight so put the fish catcher out again. Maybe fish for tea tonight.

ETA Maggie @ coffee time.


Fri Oct 19 21:10 2018 NZDT
GPS: 17 21.445s 146 51.742e

Chicken curry for tea. Fish off.


Fri Oct 19 16:25 2018 NZDT
Speed:
8.1
knts
GPS: 17 21.445s 146 51.742e
Run: 25.7nm (46.5km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 157.5nm

Had a fish on, but lost at the critical moment. Quartermaster not only unemployable but also incompetent!


Fri Oct 19 12:30 2018 NZDT
Speed:
8.4
knts
GPS: 17 01.272s 146 41.715e
Run: 36.4nm (65.9km)

On our way out to the deep blue sea, John a little concerned that it’s over 1km deep.

The wind and tide Gods are being good to us this morning, so making good progress.


Thu Oct 18 17:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 16 56.984s 146 8.939e
Run: 24.4nm (44.2km)

Left Cairns at 10 this morning, very light conditions. Now at Sudbury Reef. Snorkeling good, beach deserted, beer not so good. Apprentice quartermaster is no longer employable, so off to find a new on at Magnetic Island tomorrow.


Fri Sep 28 14:30 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 55.070s 145 46.911e
Run: 36.3nm (65.7km)
Avg: 9.8knts
24hr: 236.2nm

Arrived Cairns. Had a great sail down for a change, nice birthday present from the wind Gods.

Time to clean up and pack up now.

Home on Monday.


Fri Sep 28 10:48 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 25.881s 145 59.213e

Happy Birthday to Bob.

Had some lovely dives on Norman Reef, couple of nights were a bit windy and bouncy, but generally comfortable enough, and very safe.

Birds had a party on the deck the first night, and did not clean up their mess afterwards, so they got barred from then on. Up went flags, rags, bras and knickers, merrily flapping in the breeze. That worked! Tourist boats probably thought we had diarrhoea and had to launder the underwear every night!

Heading to Cairns today (boohoo, this is the end of the trip). No doubt there’ll be a few shinanigans for the couple of days we are there.


Mon Sep 24 16:10 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 25.881s 145 59.213e
Run: 32.1nm (58.1km)
Avg: 5.2knts
24hr: 124.9nm

Arrived @ Norman Reef. Diving looks like it should be good. We are on a marine parks public mooring, which is apparently good enough for gales, so we should be OK. Not sure how long we’re going stay, maybe 2 or 3 nights, depends how good the diving turns out to be.

It’s only 5 hours to Cairns from here, so we might stay till Friday??


Mon Sep 24 10:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 28.522s 145 30.314e
Run: 3.1nm (5.6km)

Up up and away again. Heading back out to the reef. Weather forecast not ideal but better than over the weekend.


Fri Sep 21 14:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 29.169s 145 27.581e
Run: 13.8nm (25km)

All secure in Port Douglas “Superyachts” marina. We do apparently just fall into Superyachts category, but at the bottom end of the scale! Very calm, and quite balmy in here, first time we have felt hot during the whole trip, even ended up putting ac on, how bizarre!

Lunch out. Dinner out. All good.

We are here for 3 nights, waiting for the strong winds to blow away, then probably back out to the reef on Monday.


Thu Sep 20 20:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 17.382s 145 29.937e
Run: 38.9nm (70.4km)

Anchored off Snapper Island tonight. Was a long slow slog into wind and tide again today.


Wed Sep 19 15:20 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 43.738s 145 27.384e
Run: 21nm (38km)
Avg: 3.2knts
24hr: 75.8nm

Decided to stop at Hope Island because it looks nice. And it is lovely.


Wed Sep 19 8:41 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 27.294s 145 19.262e
Run: 5.4nm (9.8km)

Early morning tide to get out of The Pond this morning.

Cooktown is a sleepy little place, but is obviously full of Capt Cook and Endeavour stuff. One of the main events is the IGA had tonic water in stock, so g&t back on the menu. Replenished a few other fresh food items too, so we have fruit and salad again, oh and back on fresh milk too.

Did a couple of nice walks, including up another one of Cooks famous lookouts.

Heading toward Port Douglas, there’s a big blow coming Friday, so we need to be there by then.


Sun Sep 16 15:37 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 27.884s 145 14.447e
Run: 19.1nm (34.6km)
Avg: 4.3knts
24hr: 103.4nm

arrived Cooktown. Had to wait a while for the tide to come up so we could get over the sand bar into “The Pool “.

Tea ashore tonight, laundry, shopping and being nosey tomorrow. Maybe a trip up the Endeavour River if time permits.


Sun Sep 16 11:11 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 13.594s 145 23.209e
Run: 4.1nm (7.4km)

Heading for Cooktown this morning. Should be there about lunch time, could be a pub lunch on the menu. I think a trip to the shops and laundromat is on the cards too.


Sat Sep 15 16:06 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 13.761s 145 19.497e
Run: 38.7nm (70km)
Avg: 5.1knts
24hr: 123.3nm

Decided to overnight in a nice calm bay behind Cape Bedford. Wouldn’t have got to Cooktown much before sunset, and it’s too crowded in there to faff around in the dark..

Pizza for tea.


Sat Sep 15 8:34 2018 NZST
GPS: 14 40.646s 145 25.584e
Run: 2nm (3.6km)

Well peeps, up and away early this morning. Destination Cooktown.


Thu Sep 13 16:10 2018 NZST
GPS: 14 39.619s 145 27.010e

So here we are, still waiting for a gap in the wind. Looks like Saturday or Sunday before we will move on. Disaster has struck, we ran out of washing up liquid, but managed to trade for some from “Island Lady”. She saved the day, as we were running out of clean dishes! But a worse situation has now arisen, no more tonic water. This is critical, we may both come down with malaria now! Will just have to hope the gin will keep the mozzies away without the tonic.

We have climbed the big hill to Cooks Lookout, which apparently takes some people 40 minutes to do, but took us an hour and forty. Mind you it is hard work climbing mountains when you have to take a Zimmer frame with you!

We have dived - was OK, but having been spoilt with diving the outer reefs, it’s hard to match with “ inland” diving.

Have snorkeled, and visited the “Reef Research Station”.

The staff bar at the resort has kept us fed watered and entertained on opening nights (3 times per week).

Have met several other yachties, some are waiting for weather like us, others are passing through to the north, and others are just soaking up the atmosphere here for several months each year.

We even had navy/customs here “resting” from the apparently rough weather (20 to 25 knots -really?), for three days. Inappropriate use of Government resources took place, using their high speed ribs for watersport activities!

Anyway, will update in a couple of days as more action evolves.


Sun Sep 9 10:25 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 39.625s 145 27.014e
Run: 40.3nm (72.9km)
Avg: 3.3knts
24hr: 78.8nm

Arrived back at Lizard Island. Long night, lots of reefs, islands and ships to deal with, but a good result - we can chill now for a few days.


Sat Sep 8 22:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
5.2
knts
GPS: 14 28.273s 144 52.797e
Run: 33nm (59.7km)
Avg: 3.4knts
24hr: 81.4nm

Oh boy this is a slog. Making about 3 knots towards our destination. Wind and tide are just not on our side at all. Have decided to push on through the night straight to Lizard, should arrive about breakfast time, then off to bed for the day!


Sat Sep 8 12:25 2018 NZST
Speed:
4.6
knts
GPS: 14 08.995s 144 30.926e
Run: 19.2nm (34.8km)

On our way south again. Wind 18-20 kn on the nose, tide 1.5 kn on the nose. All makes for slow progress


Fri Sep 7 20:03 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 10.569s 144 13.774e

We are still here at Flinders. Looking at heading off in the morning - back to Lizard by Sunday arvo as there is a bit of a blow coming Monday for a day or two.

Caught fresh fish for tea tonight. Crumbed fish and chips on our menu. Hope you are all eating and drinking as good as us.


Thu Sep 6 20:03 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 10.569s 144 13.774e

Happy Birthday Brother an Sister


Thu Sep 6 12:03 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 10.569s 144 13.774e
Run: 22.7nm (41.1km)

River Safari was too big an expedition, so had to be canceled.

Back at Flinders Island. Much prettier and more sedate.


Wed Sep 5 16:55 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 25.713s 144 00.696e
Run: 20.2nm (36.6km)

Moved into "The Big Bay" for an adventure dinghy ride up the Kennedy River to spot some crocs.

Bit rough at the moment, will have to wait for the sea breeze to die down, so our River Safari may not be until the morning.


Tue Sep 4 22:25 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 12.8481s 144 13.000e
Run: 23nm (41.6km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 142.1nm

Finally arrived. We were going to stop at several places along the way, but as we got to them, all seemed too early to pull up since the sailing conditions were so good. We had planned to stop in Bathurst Bay about 15 miles to the east of us by sunset, however it was looking a bit uncomfortable for an overnight anchorage, so decided to push on into the night and ended up here in the Flinders group. Arrived in the dark, so who knows what we'll wake up to in the morning.


Tue Sep 4 18:32 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.6
knts
GPS: 14 09.951s 144 33.385e
Run: 37.7nm (68.2km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 185.9nm

Auto Update


Tue Sep 4 13:40 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.6
knts
GPS: 14 32.861s 144 57.558e
Run: 33.7nm (61km)

We left Lizard promptly this morning, as our weather window to get up to the Flinders looks a little short, so we decided to make a mad dash, with a view of being back at Lizard on Sunday. We'll see how this plan pans out - we are at the mercy of the weather Gods now.


Sun Sep 2 18:25 2018 NZST
GPS: 14 39.609s 145 27.005e
Run: 14.2nm (25.7km)
Avg: 4.4knts
24hr: 106.5nm

Arrived @ Lizard. We are about 1/2 hour late due to drama on the high seas. We lost the dinghy overboard! BUT, of course it floats so we performed the perfect man/woman/person overboard manoeuvre and recovered the lost dinghy. A little worse for wear after it’s ordeal, but now repaired and all is plain sailing again.

We have a little internet here but is very poor, so catching up on e-mails and phone text while we hang here for a day or two.


Sun Sep 2 15:13 2018 NZST
GPS: 14 50.794s 145 32.448e
Run: 10.6nm (19.2km)

Dived Pixies Pinnacle again this morning, it such a beautiful little bit of reef, there is just too much to take it all in in one dive. No sign of Brucey and his mates today!

Departed the mooring about 11:30, and now on our way to Lizard.


Sat Sep 1 11:20 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 55.801s 145 40.483e
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)

Moved to Pixies Pinnacle this morning. Fabulous dive - excellent example of reef.

Did another dive this afternoon - Bob got chased out of the water by a herd? school? shoal? of sharks that seemed a bit too interested!!!!! Weather calm, all good. Probably dive in the morning then head off to Lizard for a couple of days. May have phone coverage there. Over and out for now.


Fri Aug 31 15:05 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 14 54.910s 145 41.390e
Run: 15.9nm (28.8km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 157.9nm

Picked up a bouy at Challenger Bay dive site at south end of Ribbon #10. Dived the bay - its OK. Plenty fish life, but reef a little bleached out. Looks to be recovering though. Sleeping sharks, and not so sleeping sharks!!! Hoping we can get away with staying the night here, and some dive boat doesn't come and kick us off. Will head south a mile to Pixies Pinnacle tomorrow for more diving.

We can see Lizard Island now, only another 20 miles or so to go, which will be Sundays trip. We are still off grid at this stage.

Hopefully these updates are working OK, we can't see them from our end.

Chiou for now.


Fri Aug 31 12:40 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.9
knts
GPS: 15 08.650s 145 40.447e
Run: 12.9nm (23.3km)
Avg: 8.3knts
24hr: 199.7nm

Auto Update


Fri Aug 31 11:07 2018 NZST
Speed:
8.4
knts
GPS: 15 19.520s 145 43.281e
Run: 4nm (7.2km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 140.5nm

Spinnakers up - now we are cracking along - its knocked two hours off our estimated trip time.


Fri Aug 31 10:26 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 15 22.505s 145 45.199e
Run: 1.7nm (3.1km)

Under way again. Had some good diving at the Clam gardens - and yes there are clams there - even some pretty big ones, approx 1.5m across.

Heading to Ribbon #10 now.


Wed Aug 29 15:06 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 15 22.753s 145 46.668e
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 87.7nm

Anchored at Ribbon#5. Winds up a bit (20 to 25 knots) but its a great anchorage. Dived the southern end of the reef this afternoon - OK. We are going to cross over to the Clam Gardens tomorrow.


Wed Aug 29 14:43 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.3
knts
GPS: 15 23.204s 145 45.494e
Run: 33.9nm (61.4km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 182.8nm

Auto Update


Wed Aug 29 10:16 2018 NZST
Speed:
6
knts
GPS: 15 52.655s 145 46.474e
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)

Under way again. We were going to hang here for a day or so to do some diving, but although we thought we had all the time in the world, it has dawned on us that we still have a long way to go. Heading to the Clam Gardens dive site on Ribbon #5. We are off grid now, and having a few technical/ operator issues with the sat comm.

If you can see this, 1 it?s a miracle, and 2, hopefully we have our operator fixed.


Tue Aug 28 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
1
knts
GPS: 15 52.789s 145 46.615e
Run: 6.1nm (11km)
Avg: 4.3knts
24hr: 102.1nm

Escaped to Escape reef, much calmer, hopefully catch up on some sleep.


Tue Aug 28 15:04 2018 NZST
Speed:
5.4
knts
GPS: 15 58.012s 145 47.477e
Run: 2.2nm (4km)

Too roly, no sleep, grumpy bear on board so moving on. Liz got a dive in this morning, not bad, lots Nemos and Flame Angels. Yummy looking cod too.


Mon Aug 27 15:43 2018 NZST
GPS: 15 58.627s 145 49.331e
Run: 2.9nm (5.2km)
Avg: 3knts
24hr: 72nm

All secure here for at least 1 night.


Mon Aug 27 14:45 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.4
knts
GPS: 16 01.000s 145 48.331e
Run: 15.4nm (27.9km)
Avg: 7.8knts
24hr: 187.9nm

Just checked out Agincourt 5. Looks good dive, but too windy to anchor here tonight. Heading to Agincourt 3.


Mon Aug 27 14:45 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.4
knts
GPS: 16 01.000s 145 48.331e

Just checked out Agincourt 5. Looks good dive, but too windy to anchor here tonight. Heading to Agincourt 3.


Mon Aug 27 12:47 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.6
knts
GPS: 16 13.468s 145 43.352e
Run: 6.5nm (11.8km)
Avg: 8.3knts
24hr: 199.1nm

Auto update


Mon Aug 27 12:47 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.6
knts
GPS: 16 13.468s 145 43.352e

Auto update


Mon Aug 27 12:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 15.014s 145 37.662e
Run: 0.3nm (0.5km)
Avg: 18knts
24hr: 432nm

Just had two humpbacks drift past. One was white.


Mon Aug 27 12:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 15.014s 145 37.662e

Just had two humpbacks drift past. One was white.


Mon Aug 27 11:59 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 15.022s 145 37.412e
Run: 9.9nm (17.9km)

Calm start, so motor on for an hour, which means we have hot water for showers tonight. Grin.

Wind got up about 20 minutes ago, so off to the reef we go.


Mon Aug 27 11:59 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 15.022s 145 37.412e

Calm start, so motor on for an hour, which means we have hot water for showers tonight. Grin.

Wind got up about 20 minutes ago, so off to the reef we go.


Fri Aug 24 20:00 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 22.864s 145 33.781e
Run: 0.7nm (1.3km)

Arrived at Low Isles. Gins brewed. Sun is setting.


Fri Aug 24 19:34 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 22.678s 145 34.364e
Run: 4.8nm (8.7km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 128nm

Auto update


Fri Aug 24 18:40 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 25.282s 145 37.808e
Run: 16nm (29km)
Avg: 6.2knts
24hr: 149.6nm

Auto update


Fri Aug 24 16:06 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 37.873s 145 43.886e
Run: 15.5nm (28.1km)

Auto update


Thu Aug 23 13:37 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 50.363s 145 49.023e
Run: 5.9nm (10.7km)

We are under way. Heading for th Low Isles. Conditions rather calm, but the spinnaker is hanging out to dry at last!


Thu Aug 2 17:12 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 55.054s 145 46.903e
Run: 13.6nm (24.6km)

Arrived in Cairns just after lunch. All is well.

Clean up and wash down, then home tomorrow.


Wed Aug 1 18:07 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 55.630s 145 59.224e

Anchored at Fitzroy for a good nights sleep after a good evenings R&R.

Could have made Cairns but we don’t want to yet. Quick hop and a Jump tomorrow to Cairns for clean up and laundry jobs.

Need to hang the spinnaker out to dry too, it got wet today!!! (don’t ask)!


Wed Aug 1 15:16 2018 NZST
Speed:
8.6
knts
GPS: 16 55.979s 146 12.815e
Run: 26.2nm (47.4km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 181.4nm

Change of plan breeze came up to 20 knots. Was going to stop on Sudbury Reef for the night but a bit windy!

Heading to Fitzroy Island for the night. Cracking along at 9 knots.


Wed Aug 1 11:48 2018 NZST
Speed:
5.7
knts
GPS: 17 05.482s 146 34.460e
Run: 126nm (228.1km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 159.2nm

Motoring. Wind 10 kts from behind. Chang is due soon


Tue Jul 31 16:48 2018 NZST
No position sent.

pos : 18 32.005s 147 44.802e reef during tomorrow morning.


Tue Jul 31 16:48 2018 NZST
GPS: 18 32.005s 147 44.802e
Run: 102.5nm (185.5km)
Avg: 5.6knts
24hr: 133.9nm

pos : 18 32.005s 147 44.802e reef during tomorrow morning.


Tue Jul 31 16:45 2018 NZST
No position sent.

pos : 18 32.005s 147 44.802e reef during tomorrow morning.


Mon Jul 30 22:26 2018 NZST
GPS: 19 47.864s 148 34.003e

Still trying to work this app out. I think I will stick to navigating, it seems much easier than this.

Chugging along just fine.


Mon Jul 30 22:26 2018 NZST
GPS: 19 47.864s 148 34.003e
Run: 1.2nm (2.2km)
Avg: 7.2knts
24hr: 172.8nm

Still trying to work this app out. I think I will stick to navigating, it seems much easier than this.

Chugging along just fine.


Mon Jul 30 16:05 2018 NZST
GPS: 20 21.436s 148 54.347e

So we are up and away. Whales, whales and more whales. Conditions close to perfect, although wind is dropping off now. No mackerel yet.


Sun Jul 29 19:51 2018 NZST
GPS: 21 6.800s 149 13.438e
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)

So here we go again. Currently I’m Mackay marina, and all set for an early morning departure tomorrow morning. Destination Cairns. Weather forecast ideal from about 0400 tomorrow.


Wed Oct 26 19:00 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 06.703s 149 13.513e
Run: 25nm (45.3km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 150nm

Arrived, but guess what, no quarantine service until tomorrow. So another night on board at the mercy of government officials. Not even allowed to step off the boat. Welcome home fellow Australians!

Feel like we are prisoners.

We were looking forward to fish and chips and draught beer.


Wed Oct 26 15:00 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.6
knts
GPS: 20 56.574s 149 34.090e
Run: 76.6nm (138.6km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 183.8nm

Nearly there. Hydrographers Passage is wild place for a little boat at night in 25knot winds, Spring tides and shipping all mixed up together.

Anyway, about 4 hours to tie up. Had a great sail across from the reef today wish the whole week had been the same!


Wed Oct 26 5:00 2016 NZDT
Speed:
8.8
knts
GPS: 20 03.375s 150 16.643e
Run: 88.7nm (160.5km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 142.4nm

We're through the passage, and weaving our way through the reefs.

ETA about 1700. Need more speed so we can catch customs before they close.


Tue Oct 25 14:03 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.7
knts
GPS: 19 35.006s 151 32.715e
Run: 93.5nm (169.2km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 186nm
Weather: ESE 22 : sea 0.6 : swell SE 1.5 : 1016.8 hPa

On track to make tonight's tide through Hydrographers. Swells up again, but quite tame compared to yesterday!


Tue Oct 25 1:59 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.3
knts
GPS: 19 11.155s 152 55.001e
Run: 78.9nm (142.8km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 191.3nm

Well that was a roller coaster ride, in fact all 4 Gold Coast theme parks in the one session. Still a bit lumpy, but really not too bad now, the trough has blown through.

Forecast for the rest of the trip is not great, but I think we can handle it now!

Just passed the shipping lane, a fair bit of traffic on that road. Marion Reef just up ahead, was considering pulling in and letting the weather blow through, but no need now. Next stop Hydrographers, hoping to catch tomorrow nights tide.

Looking like a Wednesday lunch time arrival in Mackay if all goes to plan.


Mon Oct 24 16:05 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.6
knts
GPS: 18 40.882s 153 59.935e
Run: 116.8nm (211.4km)
Avg: 8.3knts
24hr: 200.2nm

Hoolie Doolie we are caught under a trough. Boy it's rough. The computer weather models under estimated this one big time. Wind isn't too bad (25 to 28 knots), but the sea and swells are huge!. Hopefully it should pass over in a few hours.


Mon Oct 24 2:05 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 18 05.974s 155 40.277e
Run: 72.5nm (131.2km)
Avg: 6knts
24hr: 145nm

Very pleasant night. Wind has dropped to 11 knots, so heading west to find more.


Sun Oct 23 14:05 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.6
knts
GPS: 18 05.794s 156 46.531e
Run: 92.9nm (168.1km)
Avg: 8.4knts
24hr: 202.7nm
Weather: Wind E18 : sea 0.3 : swell SE 1.2 : 1012.4 hPa

Had a good night, everyone caught up on sleep as we were far less roller coaster like. Swells have picked up a little this morning but manageable. Back in Australian waters, so the only pirates to fear now are the Stokesies of this world!


Sun Oct 23 3:05 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.7
knts
GPS: 17 27.788s 158 01.251e
Run: 94.8nm (171.6km)
Avg: 7.3knts
24hr: 174.1nm

Swells have dropped off, wind average 16 knots, all sail up and off we go again. We are far more stable tonight, probably get a decent sleep.


Sat Oct 22 14:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7
knts
GPS: 16 54.252s 159 19.933e
Run: 86.3nm (156.2km)
Avg: 7.2knts
24hr: 172.8nm
Weather: ESE 22 : sea 0.5 : swell SE 1.8 : 1013.5 hPa

Had to slow down in the night, swell causing mini broaches, starboard deck underwater!!!!! Main down, reefed headsail only, still making 6 knots though.

Weather has improved during the morning, swells back down to less than 2m, still under headsail only, more comfortable. A bit tiring all this constant rolling and surfing down swells.


Sat Oct 22 2:02 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.7
knts
GPS: 16 35.483s 160 35.654e
Run: 96nm (173.8km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 191.7nm
Weather: ESE 25 : sea 0.8 : swell SE 2.5 to 3 : 1013.8 hPa

It's a rolly old night tonight. Swells up to 3.5m we reckon. Just as well weather bureau has a disclaimer saying waves can be twice as high as forecast, cause many are definitely bigger than 1.7m!! All we can do is keep steadily plodding on through it, fortunately we are riding with the sea instead of in to it. Forecast indicates it should drop down a bit over the next 24 hours.


Fri Oct 21 14:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
8.3
knts
GPS: 16 26.026s 162 01.992e
Run: 97.3nm (176.1km)
Avg: 8.2knts
24hr: 197.3nm
Weather: ESE 20 : sea 0.5 : swell SE 2.0 : 1014 hPa

Great sailing, seas getting a little bigger though (as forecast). Not uncomfortable apart when we catch a swell wrong and it decides to come over the deck and spray us all!!

Mal de Mer has overcome Alfie again. So much for being a rough and tough diver girl!

Catch you on the next one.


Fri Oct 21 2:11 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.4
knts
GPS: 16 13.622s 163 29.032e
Run: 94.7nm (171.4km)
Avg: 7.8knts
24hr: 186.8nm
Weather: ESE 20 : sea 0.5 : swell SE 1.5 : 1014.1 hPa

Still cracking along @7.5 knots with 2 reefs in. No fish on the line yet, although we think they are swimming around under us as our sounder occasionally alarming less than 3m depth, chart says its 5000m deep. Hope it's fish, and not some random stalagmites popping up from the sea bed!!


Thu Oct 20 14:01 2016 NZDT
GPS: 16 00.501s 164 53.485e
Run: 89.5nm (162km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 179nm
Weather: ESE18 sea 0.5 swell 1.5 1013hpa

Reefs in, buckled up, hold on and we are off! Bit lively overnight, but settled down today. Surfing down 2m swells, then climbing up the next. Making good progress.


Thu Oct 20 2:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.4
knts
GPS: 15 47.236s 166 13.04e
Run: 65.6nm (118.7km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 141.2nm
Weather: Wind SE20 swell 2m wave 0.5 1012.5hpa

10nm north of Sabine Shoal. Conditions a little worse than forecast, but making good progress.


Wed Oct 19 14:52 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 31.343s 167 09.866e
Run: 9.9nm (17.9km)

Got back to Luganville yesterday lunch time. Done the laundry, dumped the garbage, fuelled up, and ready to go across the ditch again.

Had a final dinner out at the Beachfront Resort.

Cleared out today, got the passports stamped, and are now about to weigh the anchor. Sad, but we have a weather window we can't turn down. Looks like it will be a fairly speedy trip home.

Will try to get the updates happening, still have some operator error with the YIT app, but will do our best, so do not panic if we go out of sight for a day or two.

Until the next one, we are on our way - ETA about Wed/Thursday next week.


Fri Oct 14 16:28 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 22.911s 167 11.645e

Anchored outside Peterson Bay. Surveyed the channel into the bay, 2m @ 1/2 tide. Think we'll stay outside providing not too rolly.


Fri Oct 14 16:23 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 22.911s 167 11.645e

Anchored outside Peterson Bay. Surveyed the channel into the bay, 2m @ 1/2 tide. Think we'll stay outside providing not too rolly.


Fri Oct 14 16:22 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 22.911s 167 11.645e

Anchored outside Peterson Bay. Surveyed the channel into the bay, 2m @ 1/2 tide. Think we'll stay outside providing not too rolly.


Fri Oct 14 16:07 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 22.911s 167 11.645e

Anchored outside Peterson Bay. Surveyed the channel into the bay, 2m @ 1/2 tide. Think we'll stay outside providing not too rolly.


Fri Oct 14 13:22 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 22.911s 167 11.645e
Run: 25.2nm (45.6km)

Anchored outside Peterson Bay. Surveyed the channel to get in over the bommies, only 2m @ 1/2 tide, so I think we'll stay out unless it is too rolly.


Wed Oct 12 18:33 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 01.943s 167 05.065e
Run: 7.8nm (14.1km)

Happy Birthday James. Anchored in Port Olry, this place is magic. Lobster and coconut crab for tea.


Relaxing in Port Olry
Relaxing in Port Olry
Mon Oct 10 19:30 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 08.395s 167 07.287e
Run: 26.5nm (48km)

On our way to Port Olry, but called in to Champagne beach for the night, sun getting a bit low to negotiate bommies later (another hour or so to Port Olry). We'll head off again in the morning.


Sun Oct 9 20:01 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 31.294s 167 9.772e
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)

Anchored in Shark Bay, but the sharks are nowhere to be seen. Local name is Velit Bay, Beautiful bay. Great diving on northern corner. Local people just wonderful. Recommended.


Sat Oct 8 15:15 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 31.321s 167 09.947e
Run: 6.1nm (11km)

Back at the Beachfront Resort. Provisioning, and off up the coast tomorrow for the week.

Not sure if we'll have phone coverage.


Thu Oct 6 3:00 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 29.211S 167 14.953E
Run: 6.2nm (11.2km)

Day trip to Million Dollar point and Palikoulo Bay.

Dived, snorkelled and chilled.

Back to Luganville tomorrow for university upload and reprovisioning.

Heading up East coast next week.


Tue Oct 4 18:39 2016 NZDT
GPS: 15 31.419S 167 09.813E
Run: 308.6nm (558.6km)

We arrived Saturday morning. Not sure why the updates haven't been coming through, probably operator error, sorry.

Looks like the blog post didn't upload either. Will get onto this asap.

We were stuck on board until Monday lunch time waiting for customs clearance, so have only just caught up on provisions, laundry and Internet connection.

Watch this space.


Thu Sep 29 3:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 18 35.392s 163 46.076e
Run: 81nm (146.6km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 162nm

We are through the Passage Grande, that is officially 3/4 of the way there.

On the home run to Luganville now, but weather forecast is for doldrums again.

Check the blog. I think I had a problem with the date when I uploaded it, so you may need to have a bit of a hunt around to find it.

Let us know how you go.


Wed Sep 28 15:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
5.5
knts
GPS: 18 55.738s 162 35.025e
Run: 145.7nm (263.7km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 145.7nm
Weather: SSW 10

Slowly meandering towards our destination under spinnaker in very light winds.

Friday lunch time arrival is not on the timetable now, unless decent wind blows up for the next couple of days. However that is not on the forecast.

Birthday today - will see if we can upload to the blog.


Tue Sep 27 15:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.9
knts
GPS: 19 17.268s 160 23.126e
Run: 100.9nm (182.6km)
Avg: 8.4knts
24hr: 201.8nm
Weather: 1

One day away from the big 6 O......sorry meant 5 O (typo error!).

Pleased to say everybody is fully recovered and the sick bay is now empty! The cook has been kneading today in preparation for lunch; freshly baked olive bread with cheese and some cold meats.

The youngest crew member has had her first lesson in hand washing; a bit of a cultural shock for a young teenager! Yesterday arvo, had to send the Captain overboard with his snorkelling gear on to check out the prop as an unusual vibration could be felt when the engine was started up. What ever was done down there the issue disappeared; he might get an extra piece of bread for that!


Tue Sep 27 3:01 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.2
knts
GPS: 20 10.61s 159 09.369e
Run: 265.2nm (480km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 176.7nm
Weather: NW 11

Engine off, sails up. Peace again. On Island time now, getting closer.


Sun Sep 25 15:00 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.8
knts
GPS: 22 26.630s 155 49.917e
Run: 181.8nm (329.1km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 181.8nm

Wind came in at 1700 yesterday, great reach to the east. Covered 160 miles for the day - PB for Serena-T. Weather models say head further north, so we have turned towards Chesterfield Reefs. ETA midday Monday if current weather keeps up. Expecting doldrum conditions again late Monday/Tuesday so currently considering a short stopover at the reefs - will depend on the weather - everything depends on the weather out here!


Sat Sep 24 14:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
5.1
knts
GPS: 22 41.337s 152 59.712e
Run: 119.2nm (215.8km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 158.9nm

Nurse Preston has been busy with her drug rounds which has managed to reduce 2 of the crew's Mal de Mer symptoms! The heavy mob (the whales) have obviously called for reinforcements which have included some additional dolphins. Witnessed a special event today; dolphins swimming in the wake of Serena-T.

Flat calm today, but should pick up late afternoon.


Fri Sep 23 20:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.8
knts
GPS: 22 34.211s 151 07.888e
Run: 28.5nm (51.6km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 114nm
Weather: NE|12|SE|0.5|1012

All safe and well


Fri Sep 23 14:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
4.1
knts
GPS: 22 11.352s 150 57.722e

So many whales. Wind dropping, wind and tide on the nose this afternoon, so progress slowed. Mal de Mer is taking its toll, hopefully the girls will find their sea-legs soon - if they remembered to pack them!


Fri Sep 23 14:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
4.1
knts
GPS: 22 11.352s 150 57.722e
Run: 30.2nm (54.7km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 128.3nm

So many whales. Wind dropping, wind and tide on the nose this afternoon, so progress slowed. Mal de Mer is taking its toll, hopefully the girls will find their sea-legs soon - if they remembered to pack them!


Fri Sep 23 8:21 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.9
knts
GPS: 21 59.591s 150 32.480e

Whales everywhere first day, dolphins join us for breakfast second day, wonder what day 3 will bring.

Settling in to watchkeeping, 1/2 moon lighting up the horizon for us. Motor from midnight to 0500, 3 knots wind from behind doesn't get us going far!


Fri Sep 23 8:21 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.9
knts
GPS: 21 59.591s 150 32.480e
Run: 82nm (148.4km)
Avg: 5.6knts
24hr: 134.9nm

Whales everywhere first day, dolphins join us for breakfast second day, wonder what day 3 will bring.

Settling in to watchkeeping, 1/2 moon lighting up the horizon for us. Motor from midnight to 0500, 3 knots wind from behind doesn't get us going far!


Thu Sep 22 17:45 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 21.677S 149 27.621E
Run: 23nm (41.6km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 153.6nm

Thu Sep 22 14:10 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 06.689s 149 13.51e
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)

Welcome aboard everybody.

We are all set to depart, birthday cake eaten already - bit early but yummy.


Sun Sep 11 9:38 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 6.803s 149 13.475e
Run: 1237.9nm (2240.6km)

Preparations for the big adventure are well under way; but then they did commence 1 1/2 years ago!

Sarah's new passport arrived 2 weeks ago; whoops we nearly missed that one as her previous passport was only valid for 5 years!

Dried food supplies are stored away thanks to the assistance of all four family members.

Last Monday, 4th crew member arrived in Australia from the UK; welcome Alfie.


Wed Aug 10 9:00 2016 NZST
GPS: 15 31.324s 167 9.948e

Back at the Beachfront Resort. Provisioning today, head off up the east coast tomorrow for the week. Not sure how good the phone coverage will be, so maybe a while before we upload again.


Serena-T - Living the life

We've been everywhere man - Shark Bay, Champagne Beach, Hog harbour, Port Olry, Turtle Island, Blue holes and Oyster Island.
We were kindly guided into Shark Bay by Peter of Lataro Island, which he is currently converting to an exclusive resort, but unfortunately we didn't have time to get ashore there and heck it out. The first aircraft was due to land on the new airstrip this week!
Shark Bay also introduced us to Chief William, and a few of his family, lovely people, so kind and Read more...

generous. We traded a few gifts for fresh produce, just so frustrated - and the paw paw is the best ever. Dived the reef, snorkelled the reef - brilliant.
Champagne beach is very pretty with its white soft sand, but a little commercialised, so we only stayed one night and moved on to Port Olry (recommended by Peter - thanks).
Port Olry is simply Heaven. Dived, snorkelled, ate Lobster, Coconut crab, rubber fish and soggy chicken! Sundowners were fabulous. Boys sailed around in wheelbarrow tubs. Fishermen showed their catch - some of which I would have put in the aquarium rather than eat.
Alfie ended in the dog-house for deleting Bob's photos of sharks, even though they were only small!
Dived Turtle Island reef - awesome, just awesome. Went up to the Ri-ri blue hole, and the local owner and children showed us how to swing in and have a bath in the beautiful blue fresh water. Brilliant. We are enjoying the cocktails and culinary delights of Oyster Island resorts 5 star chef tonight, all rather nice.
Tomorrow we will visit Philips village, after he came and invited us in his dug-out canoe, so if you don't here from us again we have decided to stay and settle in to the "village life".

Coconut cocktails
Coconut cocktails
Sewing
Sewing
Shark Bay
Shark Bay
Heaven
Heaven
Port Olry girls
Port Olry girls
Boys n toys
Boys n toys
Port Olry restaurant
Port Olry restaurant
Port Olry
Port Olry
Laundry ugh!
Laundry ugh!
Oyster turtles
Oyster turtles
Rainy sailing
Rainy sailing
Fish
Fish
Lunch time
Lunch time
Tug
Tug
Backpackers accommodation
Backpackers accommodation
Blue hole relaxation
Blue hole relaxation
Horseplay
Horseplay
Bathing
Bathing
Swinging
Swinging
Washing machine
Washing machine
Skipper
Skipper
Our house & backyard
Our house & backyard
Cooling off
Cooling off
More tugs
More tugs
More fish
More fish

Serena-T - Week 2: in Vanuatu

Well needless to say we have been busy exploring with very little time to keep you updated. So will rectify that without further ado!
So Bob's last update let you know we had arrived safe and sound in Luganville,but unfortunately for us it was on Saturday morning and so we had wait like sitting ducks, albeit old ducks (!), until Monday. Even then,it took us half a day to clear through Customs which was done by 12:00pm. Next stop was Immigration but they had just gone on their lunch break, Read more...

for 1hr and 30mins; l would say we are working in the wrong country!
With all the legal documents completed and accepted, plus two lots of payment, thank you very much, we were finally free to explore.
Provisions needed replenishing, which took us off to the local market. We scouted round the market then went off in different directions to buy the best produce from different stalls.
The chef was given a night off on Monday. We wined and dined at a local resort who is owned by an Australian with 2 brothers that live in Mackay! Food was yum and will most probably return there when we restock for the return passage.
Sailed round to Palikulo Bay and stopped off at Million Dollar point en route. The point provided excellent snorkelling as a number of military vehicles were driven into the sea by the Americans following WW2.So we jumped in to have a look only to be told by a local from the shore line we were required to pay even though we had provided our own transport and equipment!
Palikulo Bay was picturesque. Bright blue clear water and sandy beaches. Met a few locals and started giving away our gifts; the delightful smile on a young boy's face as we gave him a soccer ball will remain impregnated in our memories. Managed to get our first dive in; much of the reef has been damaged by the cyclone, but there was evidence of recovery happening.
Currently, we are moored up at Aore island and have been snorkelling this morning. Just waiting for my dough to rise before I bake some rolls for lunch. So will have to say au revoir for now.

PS There is a prize for the first person who can identify Alfie's bird in the attached photo.....good luck!

Arrival flags up
Arrival flags up
What's this bird?
What's this bird?
Cleared customs
Cleared customs
Blowing the dinghy
Blowing the dinghy
First plonk
First plonk
Headless torso
Headless torso
Surfaced
Surfaced
Wrecked
Wrecked
Wreck diving no tanks
Wreck diving no tanks
Mum & daughter
Mum & daughter
Rolling pin
Rolling pin
Fish
Fish
More fish
More fish
Watching out in front
Watching out in front
More wreck diving
More wreck diving
Arrival brekkie
Arrival brekkie

Serena-T - Birthday at sea

A big thank you to all for the various birthday gifts the girls managed to smuggle on board without my knowledge. Great stuff. Just as well there was nothing requiring declaring to customs, as the declarations have already been submitted! Also many thanks for all the birthday messages, great to get those.
The bubbly will have to wait a couple of days, dry ship whilst on passage, but will make sure it is put into the fridge in plenty of time to chill.
One gift was a pizza stone for Read more...

our little Webber bbq, and funnily enough, Chef Liz has some flour and things for making pizza dough. So homemade pizzas today. Now this is exciting, cos we don't even make pizza at home, so to try it on board a yacht 100's of miles from anywhere is pretty daring stuff. Unfortunately our mushrooms had to be donated to the fish,as they became a little rank, so we have no mushroom for the pizza topping. The pizzas turned out supremo perfecto, the only thing missing was our "delivery boy" James.
What with attempting fresh bread for the first time yesterday, pizzas today, I wonder what tomorrow might bring - cake maybe? (dreaming I think!)
I also received a "ships stamp" for Serena-T ( many thanks Sarah) which has turned out brilliant, so we can now stamp official customs documents.
An odd item that appeared was a dressing gown! Now why would you need one of those on a boat in the tropics? As it happens, I write this sat in the cockpit on the 8-12 watch, in a 12 knot cool breeze, yep you guessed, wearing a dressing gown!!!. It's nice and warm and cosy, enough to make you sleepy on watch. I just hope I don't go overboard wearing it, I think I'll sink like a rock when it gets wet!
So where is everyone, there is nobody else on this ocean? Oh of course, your all busy at work! And for those not working, you are probably sat in front of the fire with a blanket over your knees!
For those following the "updates", you will know we had some illness to deal with at the start which curbed appetites for several days, so after Alfie complaining about the number shown on our scales at home, I am sure if she stood on them now she'd have much better things to say about them!
Fishing so far has been unfruitful, even towing the whizz bang super lures that Tom made for us, but maybe we have been going too fast for much of the time. Was hoping to see a nice Mahi-mahi, as apparently they are yummy-yummy. There's still time, and we will be going a lot slower for the rest of the trip as the wind is fading away to nothing for a couple of days.
Seen plenty of birds, feathered, and lots of boobies too (also feathered)! We even went through a "gang" of birds fishing, but alas, whilst they were busy filling their tummies full of fresh fish, our lures still came up with nothing. I Never have been a good fish catcher!
Alfie was very helpful when the going got slow, she sat on the transom and finned with her feet, which gave us an extra knot, but she soon got tired (or bored) and gave up! No stamina these old ducks!
We seem to have settled into a daily rhythm now, preparing food etc, cleaning up, assessing the weather gribs, tweaking sheets, spinnaker up / spinnaker down, attending to Ray the auto-pilots incessant alarms every time the wind shifts etc etc. All this keeps us busy to the point the days and miles are slipping by really quickly - just wondering when the pace of this "cruising" lark is going to slow down!
Anyway, enough of my babble, Ray is calling for attention again, so will deal with that and then try to work out how to get all this sent into space and bounced back again for you all to peruse.
Many thanks again for all the birthday wishes, oh and James, you shouldn't be so rude to your father, remember your birthday is just a couple of weeks off, and you are not such a spring chicken yourself these days!
Au revoir for now.

Extra horsepower
Extra horsepower
Birthday brekkie
Birthday brekkie
Birthday cake
Birthday cake
Dolphin Play time
Dolphin Play time
Dressing gown.??
Dressing gown.??
Family time
Family time
First bread
First bread
First pizza
First pizza
Goodbye Mackay
Goodbye Mackay
Hopeless Fisherman
Hopeless Fisherman
Washer Man
Washer Man

Serena-T - Underway at last

So we are away.
Forecast is for light winds, but we have a nice sea breeze currently getting us to the SE, so we'll go with it as long as we can.
Nearly ran into a whale within the first 10 minutes of leaving Mackay harbour, a pair of humpbacks surfaced within 15m of us, gave us a bit of a shock, but a nice welcome to the start of the voyage.
All crew are comfortable, no Mal de Mer yet - ginger tablets working their magic.
Having a few hiccups with the blog / photos Read more...

/ position report, but we are learning. I think we time-warped to Brisbane at one stage!!
Customs were great - no problems there, although Sarah was a little spooked by their guns.
So we just need to settle into a lookout routine, and enjoy the breeze whilst we have it.

Will check in again soon

Just read and saw all of the blog. Great news to hear of the Wales. Hope the rest of thrip is as internesting. Love to all

Hiya managed to get some of your blog however system still showing u in Makay assume eating the b/cake was the start of an adventure and not attempt to reschedule ur big 5-0. Date
however either ur navigation is up the creek or the tracking program has not been set up cause ur still in the home port !!!!! Unless os course it a big spoof
Fair winds and happy sailing big brother & sister watching u

How wonderful that I can keep a track on Alfie from my bed with my morning cup of tea! I hope you got nice photos of the Humpbacks! Not a bit jealous ....... Barbs told Johno he is taking you to the Tal Christmas do last night. He will eat your turkey for you. S had his radio active scan yesterday, don't think it was very nice, he will glow in the dark for a week now. Be a good girl and do as you are told (as if) Miss you Hugs xxxx

At last you are finally underway and escorted by the heavy mob no less!!!!!

Serena-T - Captain Bob attending to blown bulb!

Last minute preparations for the big trip to Vanuatu, weather permitting.

Light bulb replaced!
Light bulb replaced!
Loading map and updates ....
Loading track, please wait ....