Round 2 and the SE winds beat us.

We were heading for High Island from Fitzroy Island with NE winds to begin with. We were making good ground (or water if you like) and then the winds swung around to SE. We really started to test all our gear.
First a winch started slipping, no big deal we have others. Then our new winch handle jammed into the second winch. So Ok we can pull it apart and fix this but not now we are trying to get somewhere.
The we decided to motor a straight line instead of tacking into the wind. With the engine started we noticed a lot of oil/diesel coming out of the exhaust. This could be a number of reasons for this happening. so backing of the engine remedied this but our speed was 2-3 knots into the wind.

After much discussion we decided that all these small problem were accumlating into a very long tough day. With any real services not available until Townsville (which, still seemed a long way off) we decided to turn back for Cairns.

For you sailory types we were on a beam to broad reach doing 8-9 Knots SOG. Now this is what we want but the other way.

What took 1 1/2 days took us 1/2 a day to get back to Cairns. We are re-assessing our plan and look like staying in Cairns for the moment.

Although is was a bit (lot) disheartening to turn back we learnt a lot about the boat and we are keen to tackle the high seas again.

Scott and Mandy

well were away!

after two days of getting organised with provisions, boat bits and getting the boat set up to go we have made a short trip to Fitzroy island.

15-20 SE winds made it a bit of a slog and we hope for better winds over the next few days.

In the mean time we will enjoy the sunset at anchor.

In Dock.

Thula Mama and crew.

Well we have a new boat! Now to get it home.