Jomard Entrance Entrance
13 August 2012 | N N'N:E E'E, Solomon Sea
David
It was nearly like watching the planes come in at Haneda. One after the other, ships were going up and down the shipping lane. It is bizzare to see nothing for days and then in the middle of nowhere a procession of big ships. They are all being forced through this 4 mile channel because of the fringing reefs. It was about 3 am when I first came close to the shipping lane and was preparing to radio one of the ships to ensure he was aware of me. A big bird came and landed on my tether (the line which prevents me from falling from the boat) and would not get off. At first when I heard the fluttering I thought it was another flying fish. But no, a big black bird. It would not let go as I shock and then struck it. Finally a yell seemed to be what was needed for it to release the tether. Did not see where it went for the darkness.
I am now about to enter the Jomard Entrance and bizarrely all the ships have vanished. Feels like being in Disneyland with everyone gone and the lights out. The current was going in a favorable direction a little earlier but am now seeing a shift. According to the chart it can flow 4 knots in either direction so hope I have not missed it. Might have to wait till the next tide if I see us going backwards.
The latest weather reports for the coral sea look good for today. Bigger waves and stronger wind than I was hoping (at 22 knots and 2.5metre) given my lack of sleep but they lessen and the angle Wednesday afternoon and Thursday is perfect for a fast sail to Cairns. This is a bit out of season so keen to get out there and harness it while I can. Not game to call an ETA till I am in the Coral Sea but Saturday would be nice, Friday better if I can get 6.5 knots of boat speed. Andrew and I did that on our way to Saipan in similar conditons. Let's see.
David