Friday 15th June :- We have chartered a yacht “Jasper” a Dufour 36’ from Hamble Point Yacht Charters. My Crew arrived, Lisa, Andrew, Shanaka, Priya, Fabian, Thetsue and Jamie.
Once everyone was ready we slip the mooring from Hamble Point and headed over to Cowes, “The Folly Inn”. Although there was wind, I decide that it is best to go over under engine as most of the crew had never been on a boat before. We planed to eat in the Folly but we were running out of time. Then just past the chain ferry in Cowes we spotted the dolphin, now we really weren’t going to make it for food. We turned around and everyone was very taken with him. Eventually we made it onto “The Follly” pontoon. Even if the ferryman thought we were not going to fit… Some of us headed into the pub, Lisa and Fabian decided to stay and Dolphin spot, he had followed us up the river. We had a drink in the Folly and ordered a Take Away, took it back to the boat, later everyone eventually crashed for the night.
Sunday: - We were all woken at 07:00 to the sound of really heavy rain, everyone thinking the same we all went back to sleep until the sun came out. Up again at 08:30 the boat on our inside wanted to head out at 09:30 so while breakfast was being cooked I took us off the mooring and hovered around the harbor. Jamie then took over and had a little fun playing with the boat handling. Once everyone had finished there breakfast and “Mummy” Lisa had cleared up we were ready to head out and see how everyone was going to get on today. The winds had died down and the point of sail over to Beaulieu River was much more comfortable for everyone. The sun was out and everyone was smiling. We arrived at Beaulieu River at high water and managed to sail into the mouth of the river. The skipper on the boat in front of us lost his hat over board and being nice we practiced a MOB for his hat, he seemed very pleased. We motored up the rest of the river to Buckler’s Hard, were dinner was prepared and we sat in the sun eating on deck with a glass of wine, very different from yesterday. Leaving Beaulieu River we were heading back into the Hamble for our final sail, with a little assistance with the engine against the tide. In Southampton water we managed our final sail of sorts down wind right into the mouth of the Hamble. Our weekend finishing with Jamie parking us perfectly in the berth. We had made it through the day and everyone was still smiling.
I took my first week’s course in the UK in the middle of May; weather was great boat full of Comp crew and our first day out was a F7. Not the best weather to teach comp crew but it was a great sail. The following day I managed to teach the rest of the stuff needed and everyone finished the course on a high.
Teaching in Greece …
I jumped on the plane and headed for Athens; flying with Olympic airways the plane was 2 hours delayed leaving Heathrow, which then meant I had missed the last ferry to Egina. I grab a hotel for the evening and tried to get the first ferry out to Poros, they we both full but I eventually made it to the Island. I was met by Ian the chief instructor and was thrown in at the deep end and took over teaching some of his guys to come alongside. It’s been some time since I’ve had to do this with someone watching me, it was funny. I then stayed with the boat and joined his crew for the trip back to Egina. Ian kindly pointed lost of things out along the way. I then spent the next few days planning the route I was goring o take my crew on. Of course there was lots of nice food and drink in between this.
Sunday 3rd June My crew arrived, 2 English guys and one Spanish. After a safety brief we headed out to get to know each other over some more nice food and drink.
Monday 4th June Slipped our lines and headed for Poros, the weather had turned a little for the worse and the sky was very overcast. We headed out under motor to a place called Russian bay were we stopped for lunch. After lunch the sea breeze picked up and it was time to play on the approach to Poros. With full sails up we spent a good couple of hours just tacking and jibing up and down the approach. Around 18:00 we dropped anchor and med moored in Poros. That evening was spent again finding nice food and drink.
Tuesday 5th June We were woken early to the sound of thunder and very heavy rain. I think we all thought sailing in Greece was going to be warm, at this point I felt like I was back in the UK J the rain stopped just as we were ready to go, and we moved the boat to enable us to fill up with water. Poros has a very nasty sewerage pipe in one of the mooring and we picked it J we left Poros heading for Ermioni. The skies were very overcast but it wasn’t raining, however within 20mins of us leaving Poros I had my first seasick crew (Stuart) as he was starting to feel really bad I decided to try and find us somewhere to stop for lunch. The only option open to us was very rough, we stayed there for about 45 mins, just long enough for everyone to eat some food. As we headed away the rest of my crew went down with seasickness. The wind had picked up and we just about managed to get the sails up before they all fell asleep. Her I am at the helm and all the crew fast asleep. Within hours they were all feeling much better and with the wind still up we had a nice play before we turned around and came alongside in Ermioini and again headed out for the food and drink.
Wednesday 6th June Tonight is going to be our night sail, so the plan was to find a nice stop to spend the afternoon and head back out early evening. We managed to sail and found a nice little bay and with the sun now shining we had a nice lunch and went in for a little swim, I say little as the water was very cold. That evening we were ready for our sail and headed out, our destination was Porto Heli. The winds were really light and we ended up under engine for nearly the whole sail. The trip in was really nice, the navigational lights a few and far between however the ferries and the water taxis are in abundance. We finally made it to Porto Heli at around midnight and everyone really enjoyed the trip (no seasickness) dropped anchor and moored in the only stop left. This time we had to cook our own food, which we washed down with probably the worst bottle of wine I’ve ever had.
Thursday 7th June This morning we woke to a glorious blue skies, this was more like it… Today we were heading back for Poros, this was to be our longest distance. We decided to eat lunch on the move but as we were making good time we called into Idra on the way back as we wanted to come into Poros as the sun was going down. Idra is a lovely little place, with the only means of transport being donkeys. Once back at Poros we moored up, this turning into a bit of an effort as there were a few charter boats next to us. We dropped anchor and were told that we had dropped on someone’s chain, I told them this won’t be a problem and that we would get off it in the morning. The boat next to us managed to mess up there anchor and had to leave and try again. At this point we left to find nice food again and drink again.
Friday 8th June The boat that we had “laid” our anchor on had left, then it was our turn. The boat that messes up there anchor last night had laid their anchor on ours… Our only option was leave the anchor down and park again, I asked the boat next to us if they could give us some more chain, the answer was “No”, I then asked if they were leaving , “No” was the reply. Nothing like helpful people... My only option was just to go for it, and if we rip up there anchor so be it. With a little effort we were free, off we motored (no wind) for our last leg of our journey, stopping for the last swim along the way. Back in Agina, more food and drink …
Saturday 8th June Flying Dolphin, Taxi, Flight and then back home…
Well with everyone getting set to spend the weekend watching fireworks and being huddled around a nice warm fire, I have charter a yacht and plan take my family for a trip around the solent...
My crew, Julie [my mum], Jamie and Ed [my brother]
We picked the boat up from the Hamble on Friday night. I had charter a little 30' Feeling from Hamble School of Yachting. My mum was a little late in getting down there so we decided to stay in the Hamble that night and head out in the morning, as the weather had suddenly gone cool I think this was a wise move. Overnight it dropped to around -3 and waking in the morning and walking along the pontoons with all the mist and frozen boats it confirmed that we made the right choice the night before.
Saturday 4th November So up nice and early we headed out of the hamble and then headed west. There wasn't too much wind but the sun was shining and it was turning into a lovely day. We did manage to get the sails up and take a really slow sail (thankfully with the tide) as mum had a habit of going in circles...towards Beaulieu River. Due to the tides we couldn't stay in the river for lunch so we just headed up the river for a quick look, with the river being like a millpond it was a good idea to make the bacon sandwiches. We headed out of the river and off to the Needles, the sun was still shining and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky.
Past Yarmouth the wind died and we put the engine on, my mum found that she really like sitting up at the mast and there she sat unit we reached the needles. As soon as the tide turned we turned around and headed back towards Yarmouth where we were going to spend the night. Luckly we managed to get a walk ashore pontoon and made it in time for the showers. For food that night we went to Salty’s and this has to be the best food I’ve ever had on the Isle of Wight.
Sunday 5th November We were woken to the sound of foghorns from the Yarmouth Lymington Ferry. Up on deck we had a look around, not much to see really as it was thick fog. Due to the tide we had to make a move and start heading back towards Cowes. From the look on my Mums face I’m sure she didn’t think this was a good idea… So with Jamie at the helm we headed out of Yarmouth Harbour more by feel than by sight. Are we were unable to see more than two feet in front of us we were under engine and doing everything with navigation. Which was a nice little lesson for my crew, however I’m sure my mum still wasn’t convinced we should have been there. So with Ed as a look out and Jamie at the helm we found our way back to Cowes.
By the time we reached cowes the weather had changed and the fog had lifted. We decided to have lunch in Osborne Bay so we tried to fight the turning tide towards the bay this again so a nice little practice as the tide was so strong it took as a long to time get to the bay. We dropped anchor in the bay and had a nice lunch on deck, watching some mad woman on another boat going for a swim… It was now time to head back to the hamble, the wind had picked put and we had a lovely little sail across the solent. Although the weather was colder than we would have liked we had a great weekend and I think my crew enjoyed themselves, maybe we will do it again next year .
My cousin Chiara and Xavier were getting married. So we headed over to Limoges (France). The weather when we left the UK was nice, when we arrived in France it was pouring down with rain, and they think it always rains in the UK... The evening the women attended the Hen night and the guys attended the Stag do. At around 23:30 we called it a day and headed back to the hotel. Expecting the guy’s to be finished too… but they were still partying over the road from the hotel, so off we went to join them. They looked like they were having fun, when we turned up the groom was dressed in a frog suit. So the night final came to an end at 02:30.
The day of the wedding. In true French fashion the wedding started but about an hour and a half late. The French wedding is performed by the Mayor and as he didn’t speak English therefore they had a translator. The whole thing was very well done and was very funny.
We then walked to the evening venue and again things are done slightly different than the uk. Everyone is invited to the Mayor part and then all invited back to the evening venue. Where they provide light snacks canapés and champagne for everyone then at 21:00 the remaining guests stay for the evening event. This was a great six course meal, I have to say I haven’t eaten such great food at a wedding even it was fantastic. The band started at 01:00 and I think desert was severed at 02:00. as you can image this was by this time very hazy to me as we had now been drinking since the afternoon.
The day after the wedding
After a very late night we headed back to the venue to help tidy, but we were too late. So we just arrived in time for the champange, wine and more nice food. We had a very pleasant afternoon then we said ours goodbyes. Next we headed of to see other family who were staying in a villa in the countryside, after a very cold swim some more nice food oh and lots more wine we headed back to the hotel.
It was time for an annual summer holiday. This year Jamie and I were going to share it with my brother and his partner, Ed and Sarah. We booked a bareboat charter with nautilus from Lefkas. We were going to spend the week island hoping.
Day 1 (Sunday) Gatwick – Lefkas- Nydri
The holiday started with a very early flight from Gatwick, everything went like clockwork. We left home at 02:00 and arrived at Lefkas Marina at 11:30 (local time) our yacht (Wenna) was ready early so we headed down and settled in. Off to the supermarket to stock up for the week. This we later discovered was where we made a little error. In Greece all the supermarkets are shut on a Sunday, so the ones that are open are expensive and don’t have the best selection. Next time we will definitely not buy as much before hand and buy it along the way. But after last years sailing in Turkey where we didn’t see another supermarket in the whole week I thought it was a good idea to stock up. Food all stowed away we were off into Lefkas to start or holiday with a few beers and some lunch. After planning our route we decided to set sail. With my crew being very new to this (there first time on a yacht) we headed south under engine. We only cover about 5 miles and found ourselves a lovely place called Nydri to drop anchor and spend the night. After a very long day we were asleep almost as the sun went down.
Day 2 (Monday) Nydri – Sivota
Up for our first morning, we were swinging on an anchor all night so there were no boats around us. We had a nice breakfast and then stowed everything and headed to find somewhere to swim and have lunch. We found which looked like a nice spot to drop anchor for lunch. The only problem was it wasn’t that good. We tried 4 times to get the anchor to hold, which in the end it did. Then we jumped off and went for a swim, as it wasn’t too sheltered we kept getting caught in the current and looking up and the boat was miles away. But it was still nice the sea was so clear and refreshing. After lunch the wind had picked up so we set off under full sails heading for Sivota. We thought we were going to be quiet late but managed to find a nice little place against the quay. We were helped with our lines by the taverna owner which made us decide where we were going to eat. It was a lovely evening and good food, Ed was really impressed as the guy gave us free drinks. As our boat was right next the table we went back and had another drink sitting on deck.
Day 3 (Tuesday) Sivota – Fiskardo
Breakfast on deck, with the wasps! Then we were off to try another island Cephalonia. But before that we need to find somewhere nice to swim and have lunch. We picked a little bay south of Lefkas just around the corner from Vasailiki. This time we managed to put a shoreline on and get nice and close to the rocks. It was nicely shelter which made the swimming really nice for everyone. We even managed to spot a bright orange starfish in among all the urchins. After a nice lunch we headed of and put the sails up. What started of as a really gentle breeze ended up with a great sail over to Fiskardo (Cephalonia) we even managed to put a reef in. We found a great little spot on the quay at Fiskardo we were all just winding down on deck when we came across our only really rude people on the trip. They spotted a three foot gap at the side of out boat and decide they would squeeze there 34’ yacht into it. It was a very tight fit and it resulted in everyone moving and getting very annoyed with them. So time to leave them to it and grab a beer. We found a great place to have diner I can’t remember the name but it was the furthest taverna around to the right on the quay. They were really friendly and the food was great. They also managed to impress Ed as this time we ended up with a fee desert
Day 4 (Wednesday) Fiskardo – Agia Eufimia
Up for another breakfast with the wasps! I headed out to get the fresh bread and more provisions. After last nights Greek deserts set me of, the bakers had some great baklava, I couldn’t resist. We slipped our lines again and off to find more places to swim. With Sarah at the helm we motored over the first bay we could find. As we were early there wasn’t anyone about, we thought that maybe it wasn’t that nice a place, It took as a little while to get the anchor down and the shoreline on. But once that was all done we had a great swim with loads to see. We were going to have lunch on the go but all of a sudden loads of boats started to come into the bay. What entertainment, watching them try and anchor. Most of them just didn’t have a clue, a couple of them dropped the anchor and while it was still dropping they put it full in astern I thought god I hope there anchor hold or they are going to end up running aground on the beach. Of to catch the wind, we have a great sail down to Eufimia. We were now still on Cephalonia but in the south in a much bigger place. We found one of the remaining spots to moor, it just happened to be outside the local Karaoke bar! We could see straight away this wasn’t the nicest place we have stayed. We struggle to pick our place to eat but we settle for the busy one. We ordered the worse bottle of wine I have ever tasted, but the lady was nice enough to change it. Then Ed’s dinner turned up, he order fish with garlic sauce. It turned up with what looked like mash potato it was pure garlic, very strange. Good job we had our baklava to eat from the morning. Back at the boat it got worse, trying to sleep to the Karaoke…
Day 5 (Thursday) Agia Eufimia – Kioni
Breakfast again with the wasps! For a change there was wind this morning so we headed out as soon as possible. Put the sails up and had a great little sail, but as we rounded the head land of Ithika the wind died totally so on came the engine. Everywhere we thought of to stop and have lunch and a swim seemed crowded so we decided to just keep plodding on to our nights stop. But being under engine and having no wind it was just too hot. Ed was asleep down below, so we just stopped the engine about 7 miles offshore in 200 meters of depth and the three of us dived in. At this point my brother woke and threw the tender over and we had a great 30 mins playing around. With the engine back on we headed into Kioni. This was a nice little place and there was a great little spot that we could drop anchor and not be too close to other boats. Once we were all tied up we decided that even though it was a harbour the sea was so clear we had to swim. Ed’s took the guardrails off the bow and we were back to attempts at diving. We had a lovely meal as the sun was setting. It was a nice little place to stay, only all night we seemed to get loads of wash from the passing ferries.
Day 6 (Friday) Kioni – Kalamos
Having had enough of the wasps, oh and me flicking one at Sarah, which stung her we decided we would slip our lines and eat breakfast on the move. So we were on our way, Sarah had prepared loads of nice fruit and breakfast was all laid up on deck. Just as we were eating I knocked the table, which then collapsed. What a mess, but the worse was the lid was off the honey, sticky mess opps! The wind was very light in the morning so we mostly motored to Kalamos and headed for a little place on the south east coast, can’t remember the name. It was a deserted town which was ruined in the earthquake, the only thing that remains in tacked was the church which the locals come back to every Sunday. It was very busy but we managed to find somewhere to drop anchor. Jamie was at the helm and was having a go at parking, he was doing a really good job and all that was needed was Ed to swim the line shore. Just about to go he slipped and split his toe (an excuse I think) because he could see that it wasn’t very nice. It was the worse place we have stopped it was really dirty with lots of rubbish in the water. With the wind picking up we were of to Kalamos under full sails. Jamie was going to park us again this evening. We managed to get right to the entrance under sails, even though Jamie was getting really nervous. But he did a great job even thought someone on the shore was trying to tell him what to do, I wouldn’t have minded if the guy on the shore knew what he was talking about. We were helped with our lines by a guy called George. Who I have later found out owns pretty much the whole place. That night we sat watching a great sunset eating mezze, not a bad way to spend your time.
Day 7 (Saturday) Kalamos – Lefkas
Last day… Not stopping for breakfast we were up dressed and slipped our lines early. We knew there were loads of crossed anchors and we wanted to head out before all the commotion kicked off. Another breakfast on the move, the sea was like a millpond but somehow with the full sails up we managed to find a little bit of wind. I also was very careful not to knock the table. After breakfast we found a little more wind and were heading around the top of the island. For lunch we were going to a place called little Vathi on Meganisi. It was a quite little place with a bar. There were loads of fish around the boat so we started feeding them while Sarah was swimming. Then Ed decide to go in he headed away from the boat stopped looked up and his eye we really wide, I’ve never seen him move so fast. He pushed past Sarah and got to the boat and said "I don’t know what I saw but it was BIG!". Then he wouldn’t go back is, wuss. So it was time to go back the wind was great so full sails and off we went. We were enjoying the sailing so much we sort of forgot the time and realised that we were very late back. We made it back just in time for fuel. We moored up and headed out once again in Lefkas for some food and drink.
Day 8 (Sunday) Lefkas – Gatwich
We handed the boat over, with my list of defects. There were a few little things wrong with the boat which were very annoying. But I think you seem to find these thing all over the place. However 2 of the things that were wrong I found to be slightly dangerous. The stove wouldn’t stay alight from day one, I was told by Yannis the man in charge to wedge a fork in it … We also had no seat at the back of the cockpit, which as we were all adults it didn’t matter but if we had children on the boat I would not be happy. But the handover went smoothly. We then had a few hours to kill in Lefkas. Then off to the airport, which in Excel airways true fashion ended up being an extra couple of hours to kill as they delayed the plane… As there was a traverna over the road from the airport and it was only a couple of hours it wasn’t too bad. All in all I think the 4 of us had a great time. I’m sure and I hope we will do it again soon.
Well it’s been a very long time since my last post, I thought I’d write a little update of what been happening with me since my last post.
As always I’ve been keeping up with the holidays, we went to Vail, Colorado skiing at New Year, which was awesome. Then in January we headed to Austria skiing for the weekend with friends. This was an insight into skiing in Europe again. We stayed in lovely little place Lech
In March we headed over to St Lucia for a family 60th birthday. What a nice place and if you love bananas you’ll fit well in… they even make ketchup out of it, which as bad as it sounds taster really nice.
But then in April the weather changed and it was just warm enough for me to sail in the UK again. I started teaching Start Yachting, Comp Crew and Day Skipper I had weeks and weekend booked through April, May and June. I have to say I love it, you meet some great people and come across some great situations. On one course I managed to start the course with an engine fire and end the weekend by letting one of the students run aground. So a fun packed few days. Last month I taught my first Ladies only week, which I thought was a great success. I also taught my first own boat tuition which again I really enjoyed and would like to do more of.
However the sailing industry seems to be very last minute and I decided I needed a little stability for a few months. So after all this time I’m back in the world of I.T. it’s strange but for now I’m enjoying it. I’m still teaching at the weekends which could be part of why I’m enjoying it, another reason could be that I’m now working for my own company Techsail Ltd.. However like I said sailing is very last minute so just as I get my first longer term contact in I.T. the Sailing work starts to roll in...
Well as you can see it's been some time since my last post. I have been fairly busy over the last few months. Since completing my Yachtmaster I have been away sailing in Turkey for a week with friends, which was awesome. I also took the plunge and decided to complete what I had set out to do a year ago and take my Cruising Instructor Exam. I am delighted to say that last month I passed so now I am a fully qualified Cruising Instructor. So the reason for my post is that a few weeks ago I took my first course out on the water.
I was asked by Hamble School of Yachting to teach a Start Yachting course from Friday to Sunday for people that have never been on a yacht before. Being my first course it was quite daunting but at least it didn't seem to show to the clients! I had 3 students who were very keen so on Friday evening I motored them over to Cowes.
Leaving the Hamble the weather was great; it was warm and the sea was nice and calm. This was going to be a great introduction to being out at night on a boat, I though. Well halfway over to Cowes the wind picked up to a force 7 and the sea state changed for the worse; we had waves breaking over the bow of the boat and soaking the person at the helm (me!) After about 2 hours we arrive at the Folly Inn - just in time for last orders, which the students were very pleased about. That evening the wind continued to strengthen and was gusting down the river making it a very choppy night. The next morning we spent a fair bit of time in the river getting them used to getting on and off the boat, even letting one of them come alongside. We then headed out for what turned out to be a fantastic sail; we had a little of everything out there, from force 7 to force 4, rain clouds and sun. We spent 6 hours sailing and learning various things about rules of the road and basic points of sail. We spent that evening in Haslar marina, where we found a nice quite little bar. The following day we headed back towards the hamble, again a wonderful sail it was a nice force 5 out there - lots of boats and things going on. We arrived back at the Mercury Marine at 15:00 and cleaned the boat. On saying goodbye to the students I was made aware that they had had a wonderful weekend, they even mentioned coming back for another course, but only if I would be their instructor! So for my first weekend had finished on a complete high. So much so that I'm going to do it again next week.
Well it's been sometime since my last post, but I thought I would update everyone with my latest achievement.
A couple of weeks ago I took my Yachtmaster and to my surprise I passed...
The preparatory course took place over 12 days. The five of us: Lucy, Sarah, John, me and John Roe (the instructor) spent a great 10 days practicing various things. The weather in the Solent was a little cooler than I’ve been used to in Oz but for the UK it wasn't bad. That was until the day of the exam. We were due to start our exam at 20:30 on Wednesday and we woke on the morning of the exam to strong winds and heavy rain. We still had lots of things to practice so we suffered the weather and headed out getting back to Cowes at 18:00 - just enough time for a shower and some food. At 20:30 we were all on back on the boat and ready to go. The examiner joined us and at that point there was no going back. The winds were getting stronger but at least the rain had stopped. We headed out of Cowes and off to the Hamble, Lucy having the misfortune to go first. It was a very stressful few hours for us all but eventually we arrived at the Hamble. By now everyone was very tired but there was no time for a rest; Sarah now had to take us back to Cowes. It was another very stressful time and after arriving in Cowes at around 04:00, you can imagine that we couldn't wait to sleep.
The following morning we were up at 07:00 and ready to head out of Cowes by 08:00. John was the skipper this morning and the winds were the same as the previous day - still at force 7. Just to make things better, half way though Johns passage the fog set in. After stopping in Newtown river for lunch I knew it was my turn. I took us out of Newtown and sailed onto anchor, then to Lymington in the fog, with a nice MOB in the middle. After sailing up the river into Lymington I had to take us to Yarmouth, which should have been very straight-forward however someone had sunk a house boat right in the entrance the week before so we had to take a slightly strange course. I successfully moored up for tea in Yarmouth and I could relax a little. It was over to Sarah; she was taking us on from here. The fog was now very bad and we could hardly see half a mile. Sarah took us over to Beaulieu river and from there Lucy took us back to Cowes. By now it was getting very late - I think we got back into Cowes at about 21:30. It was at this point that I was told I had passed, which I was very happy about to say the least. I have to say it is the strangest thing I have ever done; it's certainly unlike any other exam I can remember taking. The best I can do is to compare it to a really long driving test but without some of your senses. I say this because I was sailing with a crew that all knew each other well and sailed together as a good team, but during the exam the teamwork is really compromised by how much help the crew can offer to the skipper. I can imagine that if things were not going too well on your skippered passage, it could feel quite lonely.
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9th – 13th April - Surf Camp
We were up very early to catch the bus for our week ahead. We had booked onto a surf safari which was going to teach us to surf as we headed down the east coast from Byron Bay to Sydney. There were 11 of us on the course Rachel, Lucy, Marc, Freddie, Karin, Jamie, Nick, Alicia, Jork , myself and a French guy I can’t remember his name. Our first lesson was at a beach was just south of Byron called tweed heads the instructors (who were very typically Australia surf dudes) Dillon and Tyler took us through the first steps of how to stand up. We then spent the next 2 hours trying this and much to our surprise we actually managed to handle the surfing in the white water. I even stood up for a split second but the water was only up to my knees :-). We headed back to the bus for a very well earned lunch and then off again to another beach, we had just enough time to practice what we had learnt in the morning before the sun went down. That night we were supposed to camp but we were told that we were going to be put up in a room at a local pub, as you can imagine this was a much better option for me and actually the pub and the rooms were really nice. After a great barbie in the pub grounds we finished the evening off with more drinking and playing pool. The following four days followed the same pattern, we spent the mornings and the afternoons at different beaches trying to surf. The evenings were spent in what they called Surf Camp, which was some sort of resort in the middle of nowhere. There was a pool and a tennis court and more Mosquitoes than you ever want to see. It was a very strange place, we were told it used to be a swingers club but I’m not sure I believed this. However the place was like something out of the 70’s so it could be true. The second day we were taught how to surf unbroken waves, Rachel and I were the first to go I stood up for a split second and was so excited I fell off. I then got nailed by the following 4 waves breaking on my head. I decided I would sit the big waves out and spent the rest of my days playing in the white stuff again. Moonie (one of the instructors) did make me take another unbroken wave later that week, this one I managed to ride all the way to the beach so I was fairly happy. The week ended with a friendly surf comp and then we were all dropped off in Sydney.
5th April - Noosa
We said goodbye to David and Huw and caught a bus heading for Noosa, Rachel was staying with family but was going to meet us in Noosa in a couple of days. We arrived in Noosa and booked ourselves into the YHA which was in the nicer side of town than the other hostels and just a short walk to the beach. The weather was rather wet so we decide to have a stole around the town, it is in no way a backpackers town which was a pleasant change. That evening we stayed in the Hostel and had welcome drinks and were told of the things to do, one of which was walk in the National Park which is what we decided to do for the following morning.
6th April - Noosa
Up at a reasonable time and off for a little walk along the coast though the National Park, as we were walking I spotted my first wild Koala sitting in a tree. The walk took us around some amazing surfing beaches where we stood and watched the young and the old make this look very easy. We decided maybe we should have a go and went back and hired a board from the hostel. Well it’s not easy but it was very entertaining, Anna, Lucy and I showed the people on Noosa beach how not to surf. Lucy was trying to blame the missing fin on our board for her not being able to go in a straight line, so I decided to have a go at fixing it. Like an idiot I was using a letherman knife and slipped, resulting in me spending most of that afternoon in the Medicare center having stitches in my finger. Well that put and end to our surfing so to ease the pain of my finger we thought it was a good idea to spend the rest of the afternoon in a wine bar. That evening we headed out to a place called Gympie Terrance for a really nice Thai meal.
7th -8th April - Noosa to Brisbane
We were woken to more rain, we waited for this to stop before the three of us headed to the beach, we were only there for about an hour before we met up with Rachel. We walked around the town a little more and found ourselves somewhere nice to eat before we caught our bus to Brisbane. We booked ourselves into a nice hostel in Brisbane and then headed for a walk around the city, walking over to the southbank which I find a really nice place. We ended up back in the heart of the city for a meal and a bottle of wine. The following morning everybody had things to do so we arranged to meet up in time to catch the bus to Byron Bay. The bus took about 3 and half hours so we arrive in Byron after dark. We were staying in the YHA where we met back up with Huw, David and also managed to meet up with James and another Hugh. We spent a very pleasant evening spent drinking and catching up with the other guys.
30th March - Rockhampton to Rollstone
After picking up our hire car in Rockhampton we met up with Huw and set off on our road trip to Hervey Bay. Our first stop was to be Carnarvon Gorge which was supposed to be nice. Unfortunately the drive took far longer we had been told and we arrived just as the park was shutting. We did manage to fit in a short walk but it started to rain. There didn't seem to be anywhere to stay in the area around the park so we decided to head back the way we had come and try to find somewhere to stay in a place called Rollstone. The drive back turned out to be entertaining, what with the rain falling on the unsealed road which made driving very tricky and further obstacles of frogs, emus, cattle and the odd kangaroo. Eventually we arrived at Rollstone, an outback town with a pub, cafe and caravan park only to be told that there were no vacancies. We did manage to talk the caravan park man into letting us stay in some rooms that were housed in a structure that looked as if it had been made from cargo containers. Then it was time to head to the local pub for some food, drink and a few games of pool.
31st March - Rollstone to Bunderburg
The following morning we were up early and heading south towards a place called 1770. 1770 is supposed to be the first landing point of Captain James Cook in, you guessed it, 1770. It's a really nice little place which is joined with another small town called Agnes Water, which looks like it’s going to be a very exclusive place to have a holiday home in the next few years. From Agnes Water we headed further south to a place just north of Bunderburg called Mon Repos. We had been told to stop there to see baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. Actually this was slightly disappointing because although we did see the turtles hatch, they were then rounded up and taken down to the sea later by sanctuary staff. That evening we travelled on to Bunderburg and stayed in what has to be the worst place I’ve booked in Australia. It was the City Backpackers in Bunderburg but it felt more like a triad refugee camp. I guess the only good thing about our stay was that we discovered a new drink called 'Dark & Stormy' which is Bundy rum and Bundy ginger beer. We sampled several that evening, just to make sure we liked it, before heading back to camp triad.
1st April - Bunderburg to Hervey Bay
Another early morning start and more driving, south to Hervey Bay. At Hervey Bay we met up with David and another friend of Rachel's, Anna. We had booked a self drive 4x4 trip to Fraser Island which started the following day, so we spent the afternoon preparing for the trip. After eating and drinking at our accomodation, Koala's hostel, we turned in for the night.
2nd April - Fraser Island, Day One
We were up at 05:30 to collect our van and equipment and after a little help with our packing we were ready to go. As we came off the ferry on Fraser Island, we were introduced to 4x4 country straight away. The only way around the island is by sand tracks or the east coast beach. It was decided that we should head over to the east coast so we could use the 75 miles of beach to head north, and this meant that everyone could have a go at driving on the sand. Anna has to get the prize for the best driving as she forgot to slow down crossing Eli Creek (a fairly large river). With a big bang we dropped into the creek and with another bang we came out the other side, water pouring through the windows. We decided that this was a good time to stop and a group of us walked up the creek, jumped in and let the flow of water carry us back to the beach. We spent the rest of the afternoon just lazing around on the beach waiting for the tide to change so we could continue north (the rental agreement forbids driving through salt water). That night we set up camp on the beach and as it was Lucy's birthday we celebrated with a bottle of bubbly and a potato full of sparklers (it would have been too hot to bring a cake with us). Another 4x4 group stopped and pitched their tents next to ours and we spent the evening playing drinking games together.
3rd April - Fraser Island, Day Two
We were all up with the sun the following morning and after a breakfast cooked on the barbie we headed for a place called Champagne Pools, where the waves break over the top of the pools creating champagne like bubbles over the surface of the water. We headed up to Indian Head to see the tiger sharks swimming in the sea, after which it was time for another swim. There are too many sharks in the sea around Fraser Island to swim safely in it, so you have to find a lake to swim in. We chose Lake Mackenzie, stopping by an old shipwreck on the way to have lunch where a dingo decided to join us. We arrived at Lake Mackenzie as the sun was setting - it was amazing as I’ve never seen such clear water (this is because it is filtered through the sand). The fact that the sun had set, making it a little chilly, didn’t stop David swimming. That night we again set up camp on the beach and after another sandy meal and a few drinks we retired to our tents.
4th April - Fraser Island, Day Three
Up early again and off to find another lake. We had all agreed on Lake Wabby, however we must have taken a few wrong roads getting there and it took far longer than planned. When we eventually turned up it was good fun; the lake is right next to a huge sand dune and you can run down the dune and dive in the (somewhat green) water. Our time here was limited as we had to head back to catch the ferry. On arriving back in Hervey Bay we had to unload the van and try to de-sand everything. The sand on Fraser Island is amazing - white and extremely fine - but like all sand it gets everywhere and after three days I had had enough of it. That evening we all stayed in the same hostel, went out for a nice meal and had a few too many to drink.
Day one
We were collected from our hostel at 06:30 and then had an hour and a half drive of about 120km west from Rockhampton to the farm. We arrived just in time for breakfast and being Easter the place was buzzing. Straight away we were introduced to the lifestyle of the next few days as we were shown how to cook our own breakfast on the open fire. Rachel was so excited she just didn't know what to do first. In the end, the decision was made for us as we were taken for our motorcycle lesson. After an hour or so we were finished and it meant that we could just get on the bikes and shoot off around the farm. Next it was horse riding and it was Lucy's turn to get really excited. We headed off on our horses, stopping to play games so we would feel more confident. Unfortunately this backfired on me as the horse I was riding, Ginger, decided he would take off and I still have no idea how I managed to stay on. It was decided that this would be a good point for me to change horse, so I mounted Jack. It didn't take too long for me to upset Jack too; to be honest I think that horses just don't like me. After a very tasty (and large) lunch we had a short swim before Rachel and me followed the farm owner on our motorbikes on a hunt for scorpions. This was a challenging ride over very rough and red soil, but we did find some scorpions so it was worth it. After this we headed off again on the bikes to see the sunset over the outback. Fantastic - we even got to see the 'roos bouncing across the horizon. The ride back was followed by more eating and a very early night, as we were all exhausted.
Day two - and for one day only, please welcome our very special guest speaker Lucy Smith!Up early again at 06:30 as we were intending to milk the cows. Instead we went horse riding, Rachel and Karen had the same horses as before and I changed to a bigger one called Lancelot. Rachel was still very excited about the whole thing and did some very convincing rodeo impressions! Rachel and Karen also learnt to canter much to everyone's amusement, Karen so much so that she was laughing too much to ride a straight line and almost rode into me! After an eventful ride we went back to the farm and helped prepare lunch of pumpkin soup, pasta salad and cold beef. We then learnt to crack whips (which was very painful) and lasso. That afternoon we went for another swim and I was stupidiy convinced to go on a motorbike ride across the paddocks to see the sunset. It was a disaster from the start (I broke the bike) but somehow I managed to wheelie 100m down the road and almost crashed into Rachel. I survied and didn't fall off but Karen who had witnessed the whole thing amost died of laughter. The rest of the ride to the sunset was uneventful and the sunset itself was beautiful, but unfortunately no 'roos this time. Karen demonstrated her 'way' with animals again by chasing the cattle. On the way home however I managed to do another wheelie, completely by accident, towards barbed wire fence at which point I fell off, grazing my arm and hurting my knee. That night we played cards with the owner's grandchildren, had too much for supper (including chocolate sponge) and then turned in for another early night.
Day three
Yet another early start to milk the cows. Rachel and I were really on for this but Lucy seemed somewhat less enthusiastic. I now know why - it's not very nice. After this we went off for another ride and this time Rachel changed horse, unfortunately Jack, my horse, took a dislike to Tojo, Rachel's horse, and tried to bite and kick it - a lot. This time Lucy learnt to ride cowboy style, but frankly Rachel and I were just pleased not to fall off. Back to the farm for a welcome lunch (wew were really working up an appetite what with all the exercise) and then another swim. The rest of the afternoon was spent reading and napping in the sun. We were taken back to our hostel that evening and found a very intersting local place to go and eat. Then, you guessed it, off for an early night.
We all agreed that it was a great three days and if you are ever in the area it is well worth a look at
Myella.
Final chapter of Flying Fish Australia stage.
For our nine days offshore we were split into three boats:
| Boat | Crew | Instructor |
| Panacea | James, Daniel, Jim, Jess, David and me | Roger |
| Let Loose | Rachel, Fiona, Lucy, Robin and Guy | Chris |
| First Fish | Sally, Huw, Mark, Tania, Trevor and Geoff | Stuart |
Sydney - Newcastle (65 miles)
The skipper for this passage was David. At 16:30 all three boats headed out of Middle Harbour Yacht club on the first leg of our passage north. Panacea and the rest of the 'fleet' arrived in Newcastle at 06:30 the next morning.
Newcastle - Pittwater (60 miles)
This was my skippered passage. We left the Marina at around 07:30 with the leg predicted to take 9 hours. At 16:00 we arrvied in Refuge Bay where all three boats rafted up and stayed overnight.
Pittwater - Port Stephens (85 miles)
For this leg our skipper was James. We left Pittwater at 06:00 heading north again. This leg was due to take us 11 hours and we arrived at 17:30 where we again rafted up to make a quick turn around for the next leg which was going to take us to Coff's Harbour. We were due to leave at 22:00 however there was a storm hanging around and we decided to stay where we were and head out in the morning instead.
Port Stephens - Coff's Harbour(160 miles)
This time our skipper was Jim. We left at 04:00 and were looking forward to a 30 hour non stop sail into Coff's Harbour. As we headed out of the harbour there were storms all around us, the lightning was amazing. When the sun came up the storms were still around us and we even witnessed a water spout, right next to First Fish. After a long sail, we made it to Coff's Harbour at 11:00 and following a quick clean of the boat, it was time to explore the town.
Coff's Harbour
After a very welcome, and enjoyable, shower we went to 'Angie's A La Carte' bar and had lentil burgers! At precisely 15:00 we hit the yacth club bar and at 15:05 the first round of Tequillas was consumed whilst the ultimate pool contest got underway. Sally and I won, but Trev's spectacular performance most be noted! Sally was complemented on her 'puss in Dubarry boots' impression and Donald was much laughed at for doing the same. Donald - it just doesn't work without a mini skirt! At around 19:35 we were all so drunk we thought we should have some food at the bar and then ... carried on drinking. Jess and Rach met a dirty old Dutch man called Hank who they drunk some more Tequilla with. Eventually, at 00:08, we left - but even the trip back to the boat was eventful, as Rachel stole a blind man's sunglasses! Our instructors disappeared into the nightlife of Coff's town and were later spotted passed out on the pontoon. The next day we were inevitably hungover and decided a swim was in order. For some it was fantastic but Rach and Sal unfortunately got eaten by sea lice. We all visited the supermarket to stock up for the last few days and after an ice cream Fiona took Rach and I on a guided tour of Mutton Bird Island.
Coff's Harbour to Port Stephens (160 miles)
Daniel was the skipper for this leg. We left Coff's Harbour at 21:00 heading south. Port Stephens was reached at 22:00 where we anchored and a effected quick turn around.
Port Stephens - Pittwater (80 miles)
It was David's turn to take command after we slipped mooring at 23:30. We arrived in Pittwater at 12:00 and all boats rafted up again. The sun was shining and everyone decided it was time to swim. Not far from the boats was a beautiful little beach which was beckoning. We all decided to swim for it, the only problem was the infestation of jelly fish! Our Aussie skipper confirmed that they were harmless so we went for it. Some jumped, some dived, some belly flopped and some were pushed. We all arrived safely on the golden sand and stretched out. Time for lunch so back into the water to dodge the jellies! No-one was stung so it seems that our skipper was right. Lunch consisted of salad wraps, bacon and eggs and Sally even baked a cake! We all did some sunbathing then went out into Pittwater bay for a quick sail before mooring up in the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club for another well earned shower. After that it was off to the Newport Arms for food and a few drinks.
Pittwater - Sydney (20 miles)
Up early and ready to head back to Sydney. It was a still day with no wind in evidence, so we spent the 3 hours motoring to some tunes blaring out of the cockpit.
Well that's all folks - this part of the course is over. It's been a fantastic experience with a great bunch of people. To all of you I wish the very best in whatever your future brings.
Monday Today was the first day of our PADI Open Water with Pro Dive Manly. We were split into two groups, our group was Rachel, Sally, David, Daniel, myself and our instructor Nick Salt. The morning was spent in the classroom learning the basics of diving, the afternoon was spent in the pool getting used to using all the equipment. After a very tiring day we spent the evening watching TV and then off to bed early.
Tuesday we headed straight down to Shelly Beach for our first dive. It was a lovely day and the visibility was good. We spent the morning diving off the Shelly Beach and much to my surprise it was good fun. I don't really like the feeling of diving but whenever I felt a little panicky I would look at the other guys especially Sally and they would make me laugh. The second dive was all about learning stuff in the water. We finished the dives at lunch time and Nick kindly took all the stuff back so we could have our lunch on the beach and then walked back for our afternoon training in the pool. Another great day and again everyone was exhausted. As we had our sailing exams on Thursday and Friday Sally, Rachel and I headed to a coffee shop with our books and tried to study for our meteorology exam.
Wednesday more studying in the classroom followed by an exam, which we all passed. After lunch we headed back to the beach, this time we went from the beach just around the corner of shelly beach which was called fairy bower. This dive was much better for things to see. Straight after our descent a giant cuttlefish came over to say hi, which was then followed by a common stringaree (sting ray) then a Eastern Blur grouper and a pipe fish. We then headed for an old pipe which is normally home to a Wobbegong Shark and there he was I didn't actually see it until Sally screamed in my ear and then I saw it. After some more practicing and exercises under water we headed back to the beach then back to the dive center. Here we were told that we had all passed our PADI Open Water :-). Nick also arranged for us to have 2 boat dives off Long Reef when we return from our last offshore. That evening we spent doing some more studying
Thursday Met Exam. Off we headed to the Flying fish office for the start of two of our exams. We spent the first part of the morning going over what we had learnt in the past few weeks. Then we sat the Exam, which I didn't think I did too well on as the weather is my poor subject. That afternoon we spent a few hours going over the nav stuff we needed for the following mornings exam. We were given a practice paper which a few of us decided to complete, the others headed off surfing. We all had to return to the office to have a briefing about our final offshore (next week). We were given our boats and crew and had a small meeting to discuss where we were going. We then headed home to have a proper meeting, the skipper for the first passage is David and therefore has to arrange everything ready for Monday morning. This was then followed by another quiet evening in.
Friday Navigation Exam. Firstly we were told how we did in the Weather Exam and to my surprise I passed, in fact we all passed. Now it was time to take the final exam, I found this fairly straight forward but I guess I need to wait until Monday to find out how I did. We were all finished by lunch time which meant that we could head off to the mall to get the provisions for next week. A few of us decided to head out for something to eat to celebrate the end of studying, this was followed by a Flying Fish social which of course involved lots of drinking.
Saturday Sydney Mardi Gras. After a morning preparing meals and a quick dip in the ocean a group of us were heading into Sydney. Fiona, Guy, Rachel, Lucy, Sally, Daniel and myself went in first and headed to the Rocks for what we thought might be a nice meal, however it wasn't. The service and the food was not good and everyone was very disappointed. We then headed off to Oxford Street (Hyde Park) to meet up with the others. We managed to meet up with almost the whole group just in time to get a great spot ready to watch the Mardi Gras parade. What a great evening the atmosphere was great there were so many people just having fun, and the floats were great. What an amazing city they sure know how to have fun.
