We spent a productive 24 hours at20 15.85' Abell Point Marina in Airlie Bay. Included was a trip to the grocery store to get supplies, a trip to the wine store for the same, a trip to the fuel dock to feed our diesel tanks and a great evening out to get our fill of good Italian cuisine. We had to limit our visit to one day as we were informed that five million dollars of liability insurance was not enough and although we could stay one night, we would have to increase it to ten million before we could return!

The next morning's destination was Butterfly Bay back on Hook Island. This bay is located on the North side and provides good protection and minimal swell in the prevailing Southeasterly winds. On our way we crossed what seemed to be a causeway for butterflies with hundreds passing over our boat from one island to the other. We arrived around noon to find two boats we knew tided up to mooring balls. They said that they had ended off other boats trying to get the last ball and saved it for us. While grateful, I'm a bit skeptical about that story. Maybe they were hoping for some of our fresh produce as a reward.

After picking up the mooring ball and getting settled, we, for the first time in Australia, went snorkelling (I don't count the time I risked my life by putting my head under the water to check the dingy!).

Let me say at this point, we realize that we've been spoiled rotten when it comes to snorkelling, having spent the last 3 years in the South Pacific Islands where diving is spectacular. Unfortunately the visibility in Butterfly Bay was poor, partially due to the water and partially due to the time of day and limited direct sunlight. However, it was great to be in the water again and the coral formations were worth the effort. And yes we survived, even though we are constantly being told that everything in Australian waters wants to kill you!