25/06/2014, At anchor 20`51.7 S 149`35.7 E,  Refuge Bay, Scawfell Island

We left the Marina at 0800 this morning and planned to head to Scawfell Island about 25 nm away. The straight line brushed the Island of St Bees so we entered a waypoint to steer clear to the south of the off lying reef and shoals.


A look through the binoculars to check that the lights on the breakwater indicating shipping movements were not red, we proceeded through the gap in the marina breakwater which leads to the shipping harbour then through the outer breakwater. Once committed, the Tall Ship Young Endeavour was turning to pass inbound, we made our way off the leads to pass port to port as I am sure she altered slightly to Starboard as well to accommodate us. Once past, we proceeded through the outer Gate. We turned seaward to see an inbound ship at close quarters with 2 Tugs and quickly got off the leads to starboard again since we had enough depth to proceed. We were given 5 short blasts after making this turn but I am sure we had already made it obvious so held my course.


Anyway once clear of all pesky shipping, phew, we set a 3 reefed main and full headsail. We got the 20 knot breeze we had expected in the forecast and we began to enjoy the ride as we beam reached at 7.5 knots. It was a real pleasure and an occasional breaking wave flopped over the windward rail. Danny got some good GoPro footage from many different points on board.


We arrived at our anchorage at lunch time and got the anchor down in 8 metres of water. Danny knocked up some Tuna Nachos and we read and rested the afternoon away. A bit too windy to enjoy a swim or snorkel and the dinghy stayed tied to the foredeck due to lack of interest. The Island is rugged and covered completely in uninviting rain forest. The water in the bay is a beautiful turquoise and we spotted a large turtle as it came up for a breath.  
All is well

Regards,
Wayne
Sailing Vessel Wildflower
sv.ambler at amosconnect.com