Flying towards the finish

Moonset over Mt Townsend - Image by Navman

It was another high speed day today. It was also our last full day of travel, as we only have 25nm to go to reach Port Douglas.

We were up before dawn to do our vessel prechecks and have a quick coffee before setting off.

Sunrise over Cleveland Bay - Image by Navman

By sunrise we were out in Cleveland Bay and heading north at our customary 20knots. It was an incredible site with the moon setting to the west and the sun rising in the east.

The sea was calm again and I was able to prepare breakfast for Sea-Dog and Captain Bligh whilst steaming along at "full noise".

This has always been a fun challenge, to prepare and serve nutritious and tasty meals, with limited ingredients, basic facilities, and boat conditions. It is one of my favorite boating pleasures.

Everyone is heading north - Image by Navman

The original plan was to head north for a bit, then slow to trolling speed for an hour or so. After this we were to  follow up with a snorkel between Fantome and Orpheus Islands. This is a fantastic snorkelling spot, with magnificent coral, giant clams and an amazing array of fish of all sizes, colours and descriptions. Today was not our day for this activity however, as there was a southwesterly breeze blowing at a steady 10-15 knots.

With no fish on the troll, and our snorkelling plans scuttled, a change in plan was the order of the day. We decided that instead of overnighting at Dunk Island anchorage, we would push on to Yorky's Knob marina, about 10nm north of Cairns. This we did, and by 1700hrs we were tied up in Yorky's with our customary beer in hand.

Marina neighbours  - Image by Navman

Tomorrow will be the last day of our journey. Already we have travelled over 1400nm (2700km) in the fifteen days since we left. Like the Tour de France, our last day will be largely ceremonial. We will leave here at a leisurely hour and plan to be tied up at our berth in Port Douglas marina by midday. Doubtless I shall have further reflections upon that tomorrow.

That's all for today,

Happy Boating,

Navman