May 20-22,
Hi All,
We are now in the Hamilton Island Marina safe and sound. The conditions just got too rough for us over at Whitehaven Beach so after a very sleepless night we came into the marina a day early. It was about a 10nm run in 15-20 kt winds but mainly behind us.
We liked Whitehaven Beach very much but unfortunately the conditions were just not ideal. For the 2 days we were there it was pretty much dark and stormy looking with on/off rain and the winds were 10-20G25 kts most of the time. But, the worst part was a pesky swell that gradually turned ENE and made for a very rolly night. The fist night was ok as the winds died and the swell was gentle but that 2nd night……well, let’s just say we will sleep good tonight in the marina!!
There was a break in the clouds one morning so we made a dash to walk the beach……just beautiful…..pure white sand for a few miles……gorgeous……but then Mr Weather said that was it and opened up on us before we could get back to Mystic…..ugh!!!
Since it was soooooo dark and stormy we did not make it to the beach for champagne on the anniversary. Instead we just had it on Mystic. The meal was outrageous…..huge lobster tails on the grill served with a Murieta’s Well (Napa) 2001 Merlot……outstanding!!!!
We will be in the marina for a few days….need to get our compressor part….supposed to be here tomorrow and lot’s of chores…..wash Mystic, laundry, provision, check the local dive shop for local dive spots et al. If all goes well we will be out on Tuesday…..Wednesday at the latest. And, the weather is looking pretty good for the 35nm run out to the Reef (Hook and Bait Reef) later this week….fingers crossed!!
Hope all is well!!
John
Mystic Moon
GO MYSTIC GO!!!
PS: Pics on the website: http://mysticmoonvoyages.com/
A view of Mt Oldfield as we pass by on our way to Whitehaven beach
Fruit bats….Flying Foxes….from Kathy’s camera on our hike to the top of Mt Oldfield
This guys is Doing a gigantic stretch!!
Bush Stone-Curlew…..skinny guys
Osprey….love to watch these guys soar!!!
A view of Mystic and Bella Vita (to the right) at the anchorage on Shaw taken from the top of Mt Oldfield
I’m a happy guy…..the beer is still cold:))))
Our first view of the famous Whitehaven beach….note how dark and stormy it is looking!!
Whitehaven Beach is over 4 miles long…whoa!!
40th Anniversary dinner celebration on Mystic
Look at the size of those lobster tails….one of our better do’s!!!
Whitehaven Beach….see a bit of that blue sky!!!!
A view of the marina from the tavern where we are having our traditional cheeseburger in paradise!!
Our lunch partner!!
