So Little Time
10 August 2017
Kim
We thought our projects would be behind us by the time we arrived in Darwin, but alas, this was not to be the case.
I'm taking a few moments out from our To-Do List to jot down a little update while Tom consults with a fellow cruiser (who got halfway to Indonesia when his transmission failed, requiring he and his wife to spin around and limp back too Darwin for repairs... sound familiar?).
A couple of days after we arrived here Tom noticed that the batteries weren't holding a charge... hmmmm... so he investigated and determined that the alternator was malfunctioning. Oh joy. He pulled it out and replaced it with a spare (this is why experienced cruisers always seem to be packed to the gunnels with stuff and seem to live in a constant state of disarray. Great therapy for neat freaks and anyone with control issues!).
Fortunately he found a mechanic to take a look at the alternator in question as well as a backup to the backup. Hey, you never know when you're going to need a spare...
On a positive note we've used our opportunity here to attend to B priority items like replacing sun and saltwater damaged webbing for our dinghy hold-down ratchets, replacing broken grommets on our bimini, as well as the tar-sludge-laden line that we use to hoist our outboard motor (the tar sludge was compliments of the filthy travel-lift in Cairns, so is the snapped stainless life-ring hook - but I digress).
Long story short, our 'explore' priority has been downgraded from Level A to C, so we could attend to other more pressing items. But I have to say that we have truly enjoyed the ambiance of Cullen Bay Marina and surrounding area (clean, quiet, convenient, no swell) and everyone we've met have been very friendly. This winter weather has been sweltering. I can't even imagine what the summer is like here! But multiple bike rides each day for boat parts and services, clear-out procedures, tourist visa requirements and provisioning are a great way to create your own breeze.
I'm conflicted about leaving. The 'North Country' is quite unique. I'd love to spend more time here, there's so much we'd like to see and do - but if we want to catch up with fellow Rally participants we really need to skidaddle.
Looks like a Friday departure from the Marina, and we may anchor in Fanny Bay for a night to wait for friends.