Magnetic Island to Airlie
08 November 2016 | Airlie
Magnetic Island to Airlie 5/11/2016
Our trip from Magnetic Island to Airlie Beach took 4 days. Our first anchorage was at Cape Bowling Green after 9.5 hrs motorsail covering 35 nm. The winds were Easterlies, Up to 10 knots, not enough to sail only. We had a good calm anchorage, shared with 4 other boats, one of which was Warren, off Enchantress II, who we met in Dunk Island and has been cruising with us. Once anchored we dinghy ashore and walked the sand bar too discover a large dead turtle, was rather sad to see.
Next morning we lifted anchor at 0530hrs and motor sailed to Cape Upstart, covering 35 nm in 7.5 hrs. Much better time frame than the previous day, due to wind direction and an improved course over ground. The winds were north easterlies, up to 15 knots. We did turn the motor off for a short period and had all sails, 2x jibs, main, mizzin, out. However we didn’t sail for long due to lack of wind. Engine was soon restarted, and motorsailing recommenced. Our starter switch malfunctioned at this point, and a screw driver was required to start the motor. Job first on the list once in Airlie. Once anchored at Upstart, we dinghy ashore to stretch the legs. We got talking to a local lady who filled us in on the history of the Bay, which included, The monument erected June 1988, to commemorate the Bi-Centenary of The Northbound Passage of H.M.Bark “Endeavour”. James Cook.R.N as Captain 6th June 1770, having sighted and named Cape Upstart on the previous AM. This was another nice anchorage, once again shared with 4 other boats.
Another early rise the following morning, motor started with the screw driver and anchor was lifted at 0515. Once again Easterly winds, up to 15 knots. We motored sailed, covering 45nm, over 10 hrs to Squally Bay, Gloucester Island. Fishing was successful, resulting in an 80 cm Tuna Mackerel. Yum. However, as instructed by my chef, its best to refrigerate for two days before eating. So, this we did. Last night was our first taste of the tuna. With Gerd preparing/cooking it in 3 different ways. First up was Sashimi, then BBQ steaks, then for the main dish an Italian dish, with diced tuna, tomatoes, olives, onion & garlic, served with rice. Was all very nice. I’m looking forward to tasting the rest of Gerd’s creations with remaining Tuna.
From Squally Bay/Gloucester Island, we motorsailed to Pioneer Bay/Airlie, 27nm, over 7 hrs. Once again winds easterlies, up to 10 knots, with wind gusts up 15 knots. Dark clouds hovered above, threating. With quieter winds this gave us the opportunity to play around with the main sail and get the reefing of the main sail right. We were anchored by midday. Had a bite to eat and our anchor beer then headed ashore to have a look around.
We spent 3 days anchored at Airlie. Gerd replaced the starter switch. We went to Woolworths, topped up our provisions and got our fresh fruit and vegs from the Saturday markets. It was lovely to discover our friends from Cairns, Chris & Gilli, who are also sailing south had arrived in Airlie. It was lovely to catch up with them again.
This morning, Sunday 6 Nov, we lifted anchor and are heading off to explore the Whitsunday Islands.