CLIENT: Oceans of Hope
VOYAGE NUMBER: 20230910
FROM: Manly to Manly
DATE: 11 Sept 2023
POSITION: Peel Is
REPORT: Red Watch
Day one seemed easy, Day two certainly turned it on. Our daily chores of cleaning of the heads and cabins took place along with emptying of the rubbish bins. Getting the anchor up proved quite the mission, but with Red Watch Captain Dave’s assistance, the job got done. The wind howled in the rigging from the minute we pulled anchor.
We set sail using only the Foresail and Staysail as the wind was so strong, the Mainsail couldn’t be raised. We headed south along Stradbroke Island past Lamb Island and to Russell Island to inspect future possible mooring points. We then navigated some busy waters with wingless fairies (ferries) obstructing our path. We passed Karragarra Island and towards Macleay Island. Here we oscillated between mooring and anchoring, chose several anchoring points and then settled on a suitable one not far from the jetty.
Several members chose to test their land legs, down a ladder, onto a tender and venture to shore. Shops were visited and coffees and snacks were enjoyed. Ray had the pleasure of seeing his sisters which was a huge highlight and here we got to meet Tracey from South Passage.
Eventually they all returned to the ship and we set sail for the afternoon. The waters were super shallow, super congested and the wind was picking up. We navigated the Karra Garra W bends amongst tugs and ferries and raised all sails and headed towards the night’s anchorage at Peel Island.
Our Bosun Anne was very diligent and had us practicing our knots under the guidance of Mel K, during our “off watch” time. Can never learn too much.
Towards our night anchorage it was decided we would lower the Mainsail whilst under way. This was a very unusual manoeuvre and required the use of a “Preventer” rope. Poor Cherie was in charge of the preventer rope and required the assistance of Jody and Super Steve to prevent her going overboard after screaming “Kei te hiahia awhina ahau”! The wind was so strong and everyone was flat out with jobs.
The Mainsail was lowered and secured. We then enjoyed some whale watching whilst the ship continued to heel along the way. Closer to our mooring the Foresail was lowered along with the Headsail. It was freezing on board when we started our night watch taking bearings and updating the ships log after a delicious meal from the amazing Louise.
We will all sleep well tonight as today really took it out of everyone and we still have some huge days ahead. Nga Mihi Nui