Australia or Bust!

November 22, 2018

So we made it to Australia! It was an unforgettable passage from New Caledonia. The first three and a half days were perfect sailing conditions: 20 knots of wind on a broad reach with very little swell. We were averaging way over 7 knots an hour with long runs in 8+. The next day and a half the wind died to zero and the ocean looked like glass lake begging for a water ski session. Then the wind picked up quickly and the swell shot up. We had sustained 30-35+ knots winds with occasional gusts above that. The swell picked up, or I should say swells. Two different swells, about 45 degrees apart. We had a hard knock over when a green water wave formed when the swells aligned and doubled up. Our boat was rocked from side to side with the headsail touching in the water, but luckily the mast didn’t go ninety. I’d estimate a sixty to sixty-five degree heal. Enough to toss the stowed items inside off the shelves and onto the floor. Luke was tossed out of his bed and 60 or so books landed on him. I’m hoping he got the message about how important reading is. He was most concerned about the Xbox landing on the opposite side of the cabin. Abby slept through it, all cozy in the V-berth. She did come up to check if the captain was still on board. Anyway, we survived as our beloved Beach Flea is a very well built vessel, capable of withstanding way more than we think she can. After a long diversion around Moreton Island, we sailed up the river into the heart of downtown Brisbane. This is a very cool city. Sometimes I think we’re on the set of Portlandia, hipsters are everywhere. It looks all new and clean, with just enough Victorian buildings to remind you its been here for hundreds of years. Enough words, a few pictures.