Highway to Heaven...

Visiting yacht on the river - Image by Navman

Most evenings my wife SasSea and I  sit around with a glass of wine and enjoy the last rays of the day whilst watching the passing parade on our local river. In the past week or so there has been a constant stream of sailing boats coming into the river to pass a quiet night before heading north the following morning. Heading north at this time of year is what we call the Highway to Heaven, and I can't wait to be on it.

I can understand why boats call in here.....the next decent anchorage is some 70nm north, so this is their last chance for a quiet and secure anchorage before they hit the crowds in the Big Smoke. 

There is no marina, nor anywhere to buy fuel unless you can carry it. On the other hand we can supply an anchorage with good holding, shelter in most winds,  picturesque surroundings and friendly locals. 

The next morning the visitors head off, usually just before dawn, just as we plan to do in Endless Summer in two day's time. We shall probably see them all again when we overtake them in the next week or so.

Captain Bligh arrived today from Queensland. He has heard about how cold it has been down here, and has brought his special furry sea jacket so that he can cope with temperatures which are less than 20 degrees C. I hope he survives!

Tomorrow we are meeting up with Marina and Sea-Dog to go over the boat and have a meet-and-greet over lunch. Following that I shall be going to Woolies to do the last minute shopping for fresh food and veggies, then going up to the local Marine Rescue Unit to complete our final departure and tracking details.

The weather models (both short and long range) are both holding true, so it looks like we will all be set to go on Monday.

Wave heights for Monday - Image courtesy of Bureau of Meteorology

   The countdown is now well under way. Just two more sleeps!

    Sweet dreams to you all,

    Navman