Washing machine #3
Log reads 1,340NM (approx 2,500km).
We had a pleasant time at Jibbon Beach in Port Hacking. We were unable to go down the shallow channel into the Royal National Park as the high tides were insufficient for our draft.
We did move around to Hordern's Beach at Bundeena for some minor shopping. Unlike previous trips, we avoided being swamped by big waves when taking the rubber ducky ashore.
A strong Southerly change came through in the early hours of Saturday morning. We expected the winds on Sunday to be too light and so set out at 1400 on Saturday. It was blowing 25-30kts. There was a 3.5m sea coming in from the South and a big 3-4m swell from the NE. The seas off Cronulla were tumultuous. Fortunately, things settled down a bit when we reached deeper water. As expected, we had almost a knot of current against us but still made reasonable time, getting into Broken Bay about 2100. It had not been quite as rough as Bass Strait, but definitely of "washing machine" status.
So, the trip is over, 'though we are spending a few days cruising around our own backyard in Pittwater and will be home Wednesday.
All the best, Dave and Penny no-footer
Val & Mike: Welcome home it has been fun following your cruise. Thanks (04/08/09)