New Years Eve

An early start to refuel, top up water and ice before heading back towards the Bridge to brave the New Year's Eve throng of boats and jostle for the best viewing anchorage. Decided on Farm Cove which gave us a fantastic view of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge and also positioned right next to one of the firework barges.

Lots of "entertainment" to be had while we waiting for the fireworks watching other boats trying to get anchorages. Plenty of boats drifting onto other boats when their anchors didn't hold in the breezy conditions. Lots of patience and good nature shown by most in difficult conditions.
Sensational fireworks at both 9pm and midnight. Being so close to the barges the atmosphere was amazing. It's hard to describe the lights and the sounds of the fireworks. Sydney Harbour looks beautiful.

Sydney Harbour

Heading to Sydney Harbour from Pittwater/Hawkesbury with friends on their yacht "Aseafari" for New Years Day. Easy cruising today heading down wind and much excitement after a Bonito was hooked (and returned to the sea) from a trolling fishing line.

Anchored at Store Beach with lots of other Christmas/New Year revellers. Seems like half of Sydney is out and about on the harbour with a yacht or boat of some kind. I can't believe how many enormous power boats are around.

Sailing in Thailand

In 2007, we had the most spectacular 10 day charter in Thailand. Leaving from Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina, we sailed in the Andaman Sea, travelling from the amazing formations of the limestone islands of the north to the clear seas and tropical of the south. Highlights of trip were Ko Yao and Ko Lanta where we shared peaceful anchorages with only local fisherman. The more popular islands, like Phi Phi, had much busier anchorages and lots of day trippers but they we fun and lively to visit for a beer and Thai meal.

It was during this trip that we discovered Jeanneau yachts and found they were comfortable on board living and enjoyable to sail.

Finally!!

After many months of hiatus (on the blog and yacht preparations), we've finally taken our "sabbatical" and have made serious preparations to our cruising plans. New electronics have been added for communications and navigation and safety contingencies upgraded.

First shake down cruise this month from Lake Macquarie to Hawkesbury River. We encountered a full range of experiences is 5 short days....calm anchorages, masses of jellyfish, 40 knots winds, dolphins, a shark and a surprising morning visitor on board (pictuted). A diamond python we think but we have no idea how it got aboard.