The outlook was very dramatic indeed with plumes of smoke
merging with clouds and the pink light of dawn.
Something was on fire when we left Trousers Bay
Two decaying cyclones are making a mess of the synoptic situation... and our plans! A visit to Deal Island is beginning to look iffy. Front of mind is that we DO NOT want to sit out the predicted next big blow (that would trap us here for at least another 4 -5 days) either at Flinders Island or more particularly at Deal Island. Reports are mixed about holding at the Deal Island anchorages and internet is meant to be bad too, reducing the chances of the most comprehensive range of weather forecasts and just when you'd most want it. Of course there is our satellite communicator but more info is better, right? And what do you think the chances are of the Bloke putting ashore in a dicey anchorage, to climb the hill and sit on the bench where it is reported that if one sits EXACTLY in this one spot, that internet and phone reception is available? Hmmmm methinks exactly 'no chance' at all.
So the updated plan, written at low tide, is to leave with the predicted morning wind shift and make for Royden Island. A weather window is looking better by the hour to make the 24 hour run to Lakes Entrance, and furthermore, to rhumb-line it! It hardly seems natural.
Our departure from Trouser Bay was quite rapid. The breeze was swinging
to the South placing us on a lee shore with a falling tide and 50m of
chain to pull up. We'd chosen the anchorage for NE protection. Anchored in 6m to begin with, now there was less than 1m
below the keel. The Bloke made that measurement very audible even if the
wind was whistling in my ears. Even the brand of out anchor winch was
giving me the same message; its a 'Quick'!
One thing is for sure, setting foot on Flinders Island is not going to happen and almost as if sulking, the Island shrouded itself first in smoke, then clouds and then rain.
The Royden Island anchorage is meant to be quite good.
We'll see!
No comments:
Post a Comment