Our Sailing Adventure on 'Maripi'

Time for Noah to get his Land Legs

2010-12-08T02:43:00.000-08:00

All good things come to an end they say but we are looking forward to the next “good thing”.
As the year came towards the end we decided that we should put our beloved girl Maripi on the market and we were not shocked to have her sold within a few weeks. Our fortune continued with the delightful new prospective owners happy for a long contract allowing us to finish out the year as we intended with a glimmer of hope for Ro to fight back on the fish count. Well, Maripi changed hands last week with very mixed feelings towards a yacht that had served us so well with safe passage and lots of amazing adventures and moments, Noah’s first home and such a special year to spend together. They say the best 2 days of boat ownership is the day you buy the boat and the day you sell it. Not quite sure about that as we had many great days of boat ownership and surprisingly few days of frustration. Even anti-fouling her was a joy.
Now as we drive our 4WD through the flooded Newell Highway in western NSW as we head to Tassie for Christmas wishing that we still had a boat (cars don’t float as well) we have passed the time so easily reminiscing the most amazing year on board Maripi with Noah. We look forward to our plans for further adventure. These plans include something with 2 floaty bits, a couple of sails, fishing gear and plenty of sunsets.
Now as it turns out even with a late surge Lana won the fishing comp 66-64!!! Ro may have trouble fronting up to his mates on this one!
As it turns out it is perfect timing to leave the boat as Noah has found his land legs taking his first steps this week at 10months old. Yay!

Nara Inlet to Airlie Beach

2010-12-08T02:41:00.000-08:00

As we sailed into harbour for our last time with a clear blue sky, calm sea doing 8 knots under sail tears streamed down our faces as we celebrated our connection with our girl and the amazing journey we had with each other. No words can describe the emotions of that moment with “Hallelujah” playing on the stereo as it did as we left Sanctuary Cove at the start of our voyage.

So our last port of call was Airlie Beach where we handed Maripi over to her new owners who have started delivering her south already arriving at Yeppoon on her way to Brisbane as we write this. Robyn and Chris plan to retire at the end of this year and cruise in the same fashion as Maripi is now accustomed. Our final week in Airlie allowed us to catch up with Lan’s Aunty Andrea, our friend Andrea McGrath, Laura and Kayleigh (some great girls from England), Lozza from Maroon Dam and Craig and Robyn who delivered our car.

Back to Nara to get out of the weather

2010-12-08T02:40:00.000-08:00

With the predictions of gale force winds we set sail for shelter in Nara Inlet from South Mole Island. With the headsail alone and steep sharp seas that are unimaginable in what you would expect to be fairly protected waters across the Whitsunday passage Maripi reached her equally fastest speed on our watch at 14 Knots. As the port bow began to bury herself and spray masked our passage Maripi started to round up and drop off the wave with Noah grinning all the way. Lana and I had quite different facial expressions!!

Although not the greatest of weather we settled into a pretty laid back few days at anchor up the end of Nara. We spent a lot of time just soaking up the small wonders of nature and catching a few finned ones. Noah had a touch with nature as a seagull almost fed from his hands and white cockatoos graced the safe harbour.

South Molle Island

2010-12-08T02:38:00.000-08:00

From Stonehaven we went to Marcona for another night and then on to South Mole Island.
Ro has a real connection with South Molle as that is where his Mum and Dad celebrated their honeymoon a fair few years ago. So we were delighted to find it re-opened following the Cyclone earlier in the year and very quite. The owners allowed us to not only use their mooring for a few nights but also all the facilities on the island including the swimming pool. If you ever get the chance We would recommend that you get a look at the amazing shell collection on display.

Visit out to the reef

2010-12-08T02:36:00.000-08:00

From Airlie we thought to get in a position to explore the outer reef if the weather allowed. We spent the first night in Marcona Inlet where we were visited by turtles and dolphins away from the crowds in a glassy anchorage.

Leaving Marcona the next day with glassy waters and then favourable winds just aft of beam we sailed the 23 miles in relative ease arriving early afternoon at Hook Reef but unfortunately the predicted calm became a 15-20 knot wind with reduced protection as the tide rose. Combined with a tide that placed Maripi beam on to the wind life became a little uncomfortable.

Up anchor the following morning and passing between Hook and Bait Reef with wind against tide was like a washing machine with a boat speed of 5 knots and speed over ground 9 Knots!! We recently watched a Late Malcolm Douglas documentary and related to the tidal whirlpool created in the far north of WA.

After passing through we had an amazing day of sailing with the sheets slightly cracked and fanging along when all of a sudden Lana’s game rod started to hum that tune that says there is something big on the line! We had difficulty slowing the boat down so 30 minutes later a buggered but beaming Lana drags her tuna aboard!!! Noah had a new toy until we reached Stonehaven Beach and I started filleting it!

Townsville to Whitsundays

2010-10-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

A terrific weather forecast for the next 3 days presented us with a great window of opportunity to head south. From Townsville we motor-sailed the 80 odd miles to Cape Upstart - a safe anchorage from the East-SE winds surrounded by the amazing geology of the area. The following day, the wind was a little more from the south than forecast. This made our relatively short passage of 45 miles to Glouster Island a little uncomfortable under motor, but we still managed to achieve a constant 7+ knots.

Another fantastic night at anchor in Bona Bay - Glouster Island with an early morning glassy passage to Olden Island for a day of fishing, snorkelling and enjoying the sunshine. Soon after leaving Olden Island, the clutch on the trolling line hummed it's beautiful tone Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz indicating a big strike. Ro was first to the rod after almost knocking Lana overboard with his desire to add this fish to his fish count. For anyone who cares other than Lana, the fish count now stands at (Lana = 50 Ro = 47) - a late surge from the Captain is making Lana feel a little uneasy as we approach our last bit of time on the water.

Now anchored off Airlie Beach to shelter from a southerly weather pattern and get tv reception for the football grand finals, we have feasted on Ro's MACKEREL for the last four nights. Yum!!

Back on the water

2010-09-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

(Sailing South – Cairns to Townsville)
Perfect weather came for us to sail south a couple of days after returning from the USA. Having caught back up with Benno and Yvonne for a great lunch the day before we set sail from Yorkeys Knob Marina at 6:30am, we arrived at Dunk Island around 4:00pm. A glassy day on the water, until later in the afternoon allowed us to motor sail very quickly all day. Noah loved being back at sea – smiles all around. In fact when we first got back on the boat Noah’s eyes just shone and his whole face lit up with the recognition of home. Again an early start from Dunk, with the aid of radar and GPS, and perfect conditions found us tying alongside at the Breakwater Marina, Townville by 4.15pm thanks to our ever reliable Mr and Mrs 20hp Inboards which gives us a cruising speed of 8.5 knots!!! Hinchinbrook and the Palm Islands showed off their good side upon our return journey and marketed themselves as destinations to return and explore.
Having spent the good part of 2 weeks now in Townsville further exploring the sites, sounds and surroundings (and coffee shops) we are looking for a window of opportunity to make the 3 day passage further south to the Whitsundays for another extended visit. As we write this our weather forecasting websites are predicting an opening for south passage this week . Yee Haaa again! It has been great catching up again with Robbie and Craig, on “Unhinged”, quality people with a genuine love for each other and shared vision for a fulfilled life. The 5 of us had a wonderful day on “Maripi” with a circumnavigation of Magnetic Island with prawns, a swim and coffee on the island where Craig and Robyn lived with their 2 boys as a young family.

We will endeavour to keep the blog updated, as we have had a few long intervals without writing anything - having too much fun I dare say. Keep Smiling.

Under the Star Spangled Banner

2010-08-20T22:09:00.001-07:00

Yeeeee Haaaaa!!! The sailors are in the USA. Just to be clear...We took a plane, we didn't sail here! Maybe one day though.

We left Cairns and flew to Sydney and then had a 13 hour flight to San Fransisco. Noah was AMAZING! The Qantas Hostesses gave us a bottle of champagne for having the best baby they had seen on a flight for a very long time. Noah was a gem the whole way over. How lucky are we?!!!

We spent a fun filled, “flowers in our hair” 4 days in San Fransisco , enjoying the city sights - taking a scenic bus tour, visited Alcatraz and enjoyed time down at the delightful Fisherman's Wharf. The weather was a little cooler than we were used to - but we have since arrived in Florida where the temperature has been above 100 degrees F all week. That is above 38 degrees C. Phew! It has been great catching up with Lana's Aunty Tracey, cousin Aaron and great friends Dixie, Gray and Dorry here in Orlando. Noah has been a big hit and has loved all the attention from everyone. He still hasn't stopped smiling.

Always one’s to make the most of opportunity, we drove down to Fort Lauderdale for a couple of days to check out some lovely catamarans that we have been drooling over on the internet. For some reason boats are predictably cheaper in the States and with the GFC “fire sales” have meant an even further reduction. Coupled with the increased punch of the Aussie dollar it would be quite reasonable to consider importing our next “dream”. So we “kicked a few keels” and were driven all around the local marinas by George the Broker.
We took Noah on a road trip up to Auburn Alabama to visit Lana's cousin Josh and his wife Kristi and spend the night with Dixie's family who greeted us again with the greatest and warmest of southern hospitality. A big family Friday night dinner with Dixie's mother Dorry, and brothers Trey and Skip and their families reminded us of sitting around the kitchen table back home on the Gold Coast Qld or Penguin Tasmania, with our families.
From there we travelled towards the coast as we had withdrawals from the sea, via Atlanta to see Lana's cousin Chelsea and onward up through part of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway in North Carolina, through Hendersonville and down to Charleston, South Carolina, which is steeped in "Southern" history. Again we stayed in the historic waterfront district and toured by horse and carriage through the old streets. Savannah, Georgia, was our next stop which is like a smaller Charleston with great history from the Civil War. A lot of people see these states as being "fly-over" states so the locals just embrace tourists, especially when you sound like Crocodile Dundee!!! Again, Noah has continued to be a great hit and conversation starter. He also opens a lot of doors - like being first on the plane and getting upgraded at hotels.
Road trip highlights included:
• Visiting family and friends
• Ashville and the Blue Ridge Mountains (Made famous by John Denver)
• Hendersonville, North Carolina
• A carriage ride through the Old City precinct – Charleston
• Our own private horse and carriage tour of Savannah including where Forrest Gump sat waiting for the bus in the movie. “Life is like a box o’ chocolates!”
• Cruising in Dixies Mercedes convertible
From Savannah we drove back to Orlando, Florida via a port town of Brunswick to look at a cat that we had been following on the internet for a few months. A night back at Dixie’s and then across to a place called Anna Maria Island on the west coast of Florida. We were lucky enough to stay at Dixie’s friends (Paul and Toni Azinger's) beach house - that was just as beautiful as it sounds - a shack on the beach. Paul uses it as an escape from his hectic golf life and it was great for us to relax and chill out. We had dinner with Paul and Toni and their extended family, who were all in town for a funeral. Paul pretended to feed Noah a chicken bone and he thought that was very funny.
Back in Orlando, we again caught up Aunty Tracey, having already caught up with her and Aaron before Aaron went back to college in Dallas. Aaron is on a Golf scholarship and spends most of his time travelling around playing tournaments against other Universities. It's great catching up with family here as the US is probably a place we will come back to as there is so much to see and do and the people are great.
Lana is just a great mum which probably surprises her more than anyone. I suppose the natural instinct just kicks in but I really think Noah's temperament is a reflection of her calm, easy going way with him even in the middle of a storm at sea or a 14 hour flight.
We celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary on September 3 with our beautiful friends Dixie and Gray . Gray married us by the seaside in Key West (Florida Keys) 2 years ago. Sad to be leaving friends and family in the states but what have we got to look forward to???? Answer – The remainder of the year sailing back south through the tropics, fishing, swimming and taking it easy! Life for us at the moment pretty good – in fact- is just MAGIC!

Cairns

2010-08-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

We had a slick trip from Townsville to Cairns with our first leg taking us via Palm and Orphieus Islands, into a very shallow Hinchinbrook Passage for an overnight stay in a mangrove lined inlet. The following day was one out of 'Gorillas in the Mist' being unable to see either shoreline as we passed inside Hinchinbrook and anchored at a very "lumpy" yet clear-skied Dunk Island overnight. Mourilyan Harbour was only a hop up the coast and a great anchorage where we witnessed a huge sugar pulp ship being loaded overnight to leave with us on the high tide the following morning. Our plan was to push north but as we approached the mouth of the Johnson River with a high tide on our side we made, what turned out to be, a great decision to sail inland to Innisfail where we arrived with most of the day to explore where Lana's mum spent some time as a teenager. Leaving early the next day to catch the tide we had one of our fastest passages to Fitzroy Island arriving for a late lunch and then deciding to continue on to Cairns and into Marlin Marina. This Marina is right in the heart of the city within waking distance to all that you need.

Cairns turned the weather on for us with the first break from rain experienced by the locals in almost 6 weeks. With the esplanade, cafes, parks and people aplenty we had a relaxing time walking and exploring with Noah continually being entertained as new life experiences unfolded before him. With many and varied (both in types and talent) street theatre acts the fire twirler had Noah mesmerised and one particular busker turned him off bongo drums forever!!

Rob and Wendy, the crew from "ScallyWag", were in Cairns to welcome us, drink coffee and beer and eat "ribs". We first met Rob and Wendy in Pancake Creek in the early part of the year and after seeing them in Gladstone and the Whitsundays they continued on to Cairns and ALL in their 25 ft Holland mono-hull!!! Noah's Nan and Pop Robbo from Tas came to visit and brought much joy and loads of smiles from Noah and we had a great relaxing time together. Continuing on the social side of things we caught up with some landlubber friends in Lindsay and Margaret Benson, their son and family Benno and Yvonne (Lucy and Ollie), and friends Nadine, Dot and Rhonda, Kaye and Laura with whom we both knew from our work in the Torres Straits. (Photos from this part of the trip will have to be updated when we return to Australia).

A quick trip to Yorkies Knob (Bluewater Marina), we locked up the boat and headed back into town for a couple of nights at the casino before our trip to the USA. It was amazing sleeping in a king sized bed and chilling in the spa after 6 months of a very comfortable yet restricted time on Maripi. Obama, here we come!

Family and Friends

2010-07-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

(Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, Townsville)

Over the past few weeks we have enjoyed spending time with family and friends both on and off the boat. Pete and Dee (Noah’s Queensland Grandparents) met us in Airlie Beach, where we spent three nights ashore in an apartment overlooking the ocean – a different perspective for us. This time also gave the opportunity to catch up with our mate Lawrence who drove down to visit us from Townsville where he was holidaying. Pete and Dee joined us for a couple of nights on the boat after we left Airlie Beach, visiting Nara Inlet, Whitsunday Island and Hamilton Island. Dee caught the first fish of the night and Pete tried to claim it as his – see photo. Not to be outdone, Pete actually caught a few of his own as well. We waved goodbye from Maripi as they left on the ferry back to Airlie Beach, after a fun filled week - a special time for Noah. Thanks Pete and Dee for coming up to visit us!

The following day Noah’s Aunty Lauren flew in to join us on Hamilton Island with Aunty Nay (Lana’s cousin) also joining us the next day. The girls spent four days with us enjoying Noah, the pool, bar, golf buggy drives, shopping, a Maripi boat cruise to Whitehaven Beach and did we mention the bar! We stayed in the Hamilton Island Marina for a week, enjoying all the island had to offer. The berth we were allocated was only vacated the night before by James Packer’s 80ft motor yacht. Maripi took up 1/3 of the space of the berth and was flanked by multi-million dollar motor yachts. Lucky us! Ian our neighbour generously offered us the use of his golf cart which we zipped around in to see the sights and coincidentally Warren on the next boat over was an old friend of Ro’s Dad’s. We really enjoyed our week on Hamilton with everyone.

We set sail for Townsville via Cape Gloucester and Cape Bowling Green, which we have now renamed Cape Rolling Green, after a very uncomfortable overnight anchorage. Our passage from Cape Gloucester to Cape Rolling Green of 80 nautical miles was completed in daylight hours, with the assistance of our spinnaker and 20-25knot winds - a great effort by Maripi. Arriving in Townsville in record time, our lines were taken by our great friends Craig and Robyn from Unhinged. Totally spoilt, Robyn cooked us a beautiful 3 course meal that night, which we shared together aboard Maripi. We celebrated Ro’s birthday on Monday 19th. Noah took Ro to visit the Maritime Museum and it was there we gained more information about the tragic shipwreck of the Yongala, lost without a trace during a cyclone in 1911. 120 lives were lost that night and her position and fate remained a mystery until soon after World War 2. There were no survivors. We had read about it in an old book years ago called Famous Australian Ship Wrecks. That night we went out for a special dinner returning to Maripi to find Craig and Robyn waiting with a birthday cake. Continuing the birthday theme we celebrated Craig’s birthday on the 25th with breakfast at the Casino.

Ro took Noah for his first swimming lesson at the Tobruk Memorial Baths (the local pool) where Dawn Fraser once trained. The instructor said that Noah was a natural in the water. Must be all the practice he has had so far in the ocean. The best part was watching Noah laugh while Ro (the only father in the pool) and all mother’s splashed around singing “If you’re happy and you know make a splash!”
We are now sailing north – with our next major destination being Cairns. Our route is planned via Orphieus Island, Hinchinbrook Channel, Dunk and Fitzroy Islands.
Fish count A=48 R=37

Noah Shirt, Noah Shoes, Noah Problems!!

2010-07-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

(Whitsunday Island - Hill Inlet – Whitehaven Beach - Tongue Bay)

Following a couple of nights at Windy Bay, 'Maripi', 'Aquavista' and 'Swanning Around' cruised in company back across the bay to Hill Inlet on the northern end of Whitehaven Beach. Not able to be navigated at low tide, the 3 cats “nosed” our way into the inlet on the incoming tide on a “snake-like” course until we found a couple of deep holes about a mile or so inland surrounded by mangroves, rocky outcrops, sandbanks and (the namesake) hills. With one on the wheel and the other on the bow searching for the darker, deep water the depth became very 'skinny' at times with unsuspecting sting-rays darting left, right and centre! We, in fact, were able to dry “Maripi” out for the first time since we slipped her in Hobart in Nov last year. It was a great opportunity to inspect the anti-foul which has held up well!
Sharing meals, fishing, walks on Whitehaven, more stories and laughs, fantastic weather and celebrating Brett and Deb’s 15th wedding anniversary all led to an unforgettable time spent with great friends. Noah has continued to be a drawcard to “trump” anything else! Now sitting up and continuing his smiley way everyone comments on his happy and playful nature, so he is winning hearts everywhere. As we left Hill Inlet with 'Swanning Around', leaving Pat and Phil behind to head south in a couple of days, we look forward to the time we all find ourselves in the same bay together once again.
Now to the update on the fish count! With the major fish being Lana’s Nara Inlet Salmon and a Javelin Fish caught by Ro in Hill Inlet and a few other less significant hauls, the fish count now stands at 43 – 34 in 'You know who’s' favour!!! We would love to have added Lana’s shark and Ro’s big trevally but, alas, they both got away!
Tomorrow we plan to spend the night at anchor in Cid Harbour before heading into Airlie Beach to meet up with Noah’s Gold Coast Nanny and Pop for a few days.

Haslewood Island – Windy Bay

2010-07-03T21:37:00.000-07:00

Passing through Hook Passage which separates Hook Island from Whitsunday Island, we anchored for another walk at Tongue Bay. From the lookout we captured expansive views of Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet and across Whitehaven Bay to Haselwood Island. This is a really popular tourist anchorage with some 350 visitors going ashore and up to the lookout each day. Ro was in his element surrounded by some famous past Sydney to Hobart racing yachts such as Condor, Freight Train and Ragamuffin who now ply the “back-packer” trade route. Weighing anchor we sailed past Esk Island to Windy Bay on the north west tip of Haselwood Island, where we were excited to be joined by friends Pat and Phil on Aqua Vista as well as new friends, Deb and Brett, on ‘Swanning Around’ - a beautiful sailing catamaran that they spent 2 and a half years building themselves.
Dinner that night was a real affair on ‘Swanning Around” – great food, company and lots of laughs. While on the subject of food... Noah has cracked into the solids and is not looking back. Early the following morning we all went ashore for a few hours of bush-bashing, reef walking, beachcombing and shucking big black lip oysters off the rocks. Over the course of the next few days the 7 of us experienced a most memorable time sharing stories, food, ideas, philosophies and many many laughs.

Hook Island – Butterfly Bay and Nara Inlet

2010-07-03T21:36:00.000-07:00

At Blue Pearl Bay Hayman Island, we rendezvoused with our friends Robyn and Craig on ‘Unhinged’ with whom we had spent quality time with in Mooloolaba earlier in the year. They were making a quick trip through the Whitsundays on route to Townsville due to work commitments. From there we sailed in company around Hayman and into Butterfly Bay on the north side of Hook Island where we had a great night catching up in a pristine anchorage surrounded by coral bombies.
The following morning after we shared fresh scones with Robyn and Craig, they continued north and we sailed around the western side of Hook Island and into Nara Inlet. This inlet offers great protection from the south east winds with encroaching forest down to the waterline. We were able to tuck ‘Maripi' right up into the inlet. Soon after we anchored we took the dinghy ashore and walked up through a rainforest to explore aboriginal caves and their paintings. Noah always enjoys our walks as it seems he already has a beautiful fascination for nature.
It was here Lana caught another fish! A fighting 8kg salmon almost caused the handline to cut through her fingers but she ended up wrapping the line around one of the boat winches to pull the monster in.

We're in the Whitsundays

2010-07-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

We have a star in our midst! Noah at the ripe old age of 5 months had made his first appearance on national television with a full screen picture on the Today Show where the male presenter Carl said “What a beautiful baby”. No wonder he gets paid the big bucks with intuition like that. Lana emailed a photo in just the day before and someone with great taste at the other end chose it for the morning photo.
Now back to our travels. From Brampton we arrived at Shaw Island, opposite Lindeman Island, where we sheltered from some strong winds for a couple of days in a beautifully protected anchorage. Shaw is a national park which offered great fishing, black lip oysters shucked off the rocks, exciting beachcombing on the 'weather' side and constant company around the boat from the local turtles. Passing Hamilton on the way to Dent Island, we arrived on the north eastern tip of Dent where Ro’s Grandmother’s cousin Leenie and her husband Bill first established a Coral Art business after World War II. Ro last visited this place at the age of 12, but sadly Leenie and Bill have both passed on and the leasehold sold and business has closed down. We thank the caretakers, John and Liz for allowing Ro to revisit a fond childhood memory. From Dent we journeyed across the passage to South Mole which is still glowing after 52 years since Ro’s parents spent their honeymoon there. After leaving South Mole through the confidence diminishing 'Unsafe Passage', we anchored on a milky sea for the night off Daydream Island in Sun-lovers Cove.
From Daydream we anchored for a couple of nights in Funnel Bay on the mainland before heading to Airlie Beach to restock supplies, refuel, fill water tanks, fix a minor electrical problem, and more importantly ditch Noah’s nappies.
With the gap in the fish count increasing in Lana’s favour (40-31), Ro hopped in the kayak after anchoring in Airlie Beach in a desperate search for help returning from the tackle shop with some fancy plastic lures! Let’s see how they go!
Not to be outdone on pulling stuff out of the sea, Ro found a tool box of stainless steel fittings followed be a sunken 25ft yacht both probably resultant of the latest cyclone. 5 deck winches and one anchor later – Ro is winning the salvage count although Lana reminds him that you can’t eat winches!
Now entering our 3rd week in the Whitsundays we spent this morning with our friends Phil and Pat from Aqua Vista at the local markets here in Airlie Beach and are now heading out for 10 days to further explore Hook, Hayman and Whitsunday Islands as well as other lesser known but beautiful islands, reefs and bays.

Wimbledon 2026

2010-06-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Crackerjack sailing conditions saw us arrive at Hexham Island in good time as the anchorage glassed over for the late afternoon and evening. Ro ventured ashore to take some terrific pictures of Maripi from the top of the hillside overlooking the bay. On the shoreline Ro discovered what looked to be the remains of a small keel boat which may have met its fate during the cyclone that passed through the Whitsundays to the north earlier this year. With one cast of the bait net Ro caught over 100 ‘hardy heads’ his best cast yet. Note – this did not add to his fish count!
Middle Percy Island is typically the last anchorage before moving on to the Whitsundays and in an A Frame shed on the beach in West Bay the names of many a yacht passing this way over the past 50 years has left a record of her visit. Maripi has now been added to the shrine (see photos). You could spend all day looking through the shed if you wanted to, reading about the history of the island and the many cruising vessels that have called at this Mecca.
We headed to Scawfell Island, 60 nautical miles North West of Middle Percy in a steady 10 knot breeze averaging 6.5 knots. Scawfell Island is basically the most southern of all the Whitsunday islands. The weather forecast was for winds no greater than 15 knots, but within half an hour of our departure from Scawfell the winds far exceeded the forecast, gusting the strongest at over 30knots with a constant 20-25 knots on our beam. The combination of wind, tide and relatively shallow water saw the seas grow at times to 3.0m. Although it was a fairly quick trip of only 3 hours, this was by far our most unpleasant passage yet. With our trusty boat and Captain Ro at the helm we were well in control of the situation and arrived safely to Brampton Island where we anchored last night. We plan to spend the next 6 weeks exploring as many of the islands as we can through the upcoming “100 magic miles”.
Noah has decided to continue cruising with us as he is about to enter an adventure all of his own – SOLIDS! He will be 5 months old next week. All he wants to do is stand-up; he may even bypass the crawling stage. Greeting us every morning with a big smile on his face, his day consists of lots of playful times, laughing attacks and more goos and gars. Forever active, he loves kicking his legs and bouncing in his jolly jumper which Ro cleverly attached for him in the cockpit. With vision to his future, Lana has replaced his favourite toy (cookie monster) with a Wilson US OPEN tennis ball. Already his hand eye co-ordination looks promising for court side seats at Wimbledon in 2026. Ha!

Pine Trees Point

2010-06-10T13:45:00.000-07:00

With some local knowledge passed on by our friend Ginny, our next anchorage at Pine Trees Point rates highly amongst our favourite anchorages thus far. We were aware that we only had two days to enjoy all that this pretty, remote place had to offer before potentially being blown out of the water with live firing exercises set to commence on Monday June 7th.
Lana set off in the kayak and discovered the most beautiful little inlet full of bream, bait fish, sting rays and one big, black, ugly, wild bush pig, with which Ro later had a stand off. Further in the inlet, under an amazing rock (see photos) there lived a year’s supply of bream. A few of which ended up in our frying pan for lunch.
This was probably our most peaceful and isolated time so far. No other boats, no distant lights or sign of human existence, just surrounded by gorgeous wildlife and landscape with plenty of fish to eat. We felt like the only 3 people on earth.
Under a clear sky and a waning moon, we lay in awe on the deck and marvelled at the blanket of bright stars above us and contemplated our significance and existence.
Fish Count – 28 ALL

Roslyn Bay – Pearl Bay

2010-06-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

After a delayed departure on Wed 2nd June from Roslyn Bay (where Ro had to install a new fuel pump), we set off on a 42 nm passage to Pearl Bay. Starting in glassy conditions with the wind increasing to no more than 10 knots throughout the day, we enjoyed hugging the picturesque coastline with the highlight being joined by a pod of beautiful dolphins. They played on the bow waves and stayed with us for 10 special minutes. We also spotted a tail flick from a whale in the distance.
Entering Pearl Bay was like entering the Fjords in Northern Europe, with pine tree covered islands and rocky coastline extending to the water line with great depths and protected anchorage.
Timing is everything. Not only did we strike amazing weather but this vast area is part of the Shoal Water Military Training Area and is often closed to the public. In fact, civilians are not permitted to venture beyond the shoreline at any time. In times of military exercise involving air, navy and army the exclusion zone extends some 6 nautical miles off the coast.
We spent two days in Pearl Bay exploring the beach and sea caves in the cliffs on the kayak.

Waiting for the Captain to return!

2010-05-30T04:17:00.001-07:00

(Roslyn Bay & Yeppoon)

Noah and I have spent the last 10 days here at Roslyn Bay Marina eagerly awaiting our Captain’s return. Ro left for Tassie on Friday 21st and arrives back home to us tomorrow Monday 31st! His loving crew are very excited – we have missed him so much!

Lucky for us the first 4 days were spent with Nanny Dee, who flew up to visit us on the boat. We enjoyed our time together with her as we explored the surrounding areas of Emu Park, Zilzie and Yeppoon by car, as well as daily walks to the beach and lots of cuddles with Noah. Thanks for coming up to visit Mum, it was fun.

For the past week, the little first mate and I have been flying solo here on the boat. We caught up with Alison and Ric (AKA Crabman) who we spent time with at Yellow Patch earlier this month. Alison surprised us by giving Noah a beautiful little blue jumper and matching beanie, that she so kindly hand knitted for him. Thanks Alison, Noah will enjoy wearing his new outfit over the next couple of months on those fresh mornings. We also caught up with Anna and Garth (The Honeymooner’s) who we met on Great Keppel Island. We were invited to their house in Cooee Bay for two delicious dinners during the week. Very spoilt! We think Noah and Bonnie might get married one day. Ha! Bonnie should be so lucky - Get in line baby!

Noah is growing quickly – He is 4 and a half months old this week. How time flies. His latest trick is blowing lots of bubbles and trying to talk. There are many goos and gars and he is still full of wide smiles and chuckles. It’s fun watching him discover everything for the first time. Like pumpkin puree....see photos. For now Noah is still only having breast milk, but we experimented with the pumpkin just to see his reaction. There will be plenty of time to get onto solids, as he certainly isn’t fading away. Ha!

With some time to myself, I have managed to start a special book for Noah about his first year of life at sea. Unfortunately, the fact that I have no artistic ability won’t help my presentation of the book. Oh well, if nothing else I hope Noah will enjoy looking at the photos and reading the stories about how he spent his first year of life on a boat called Maripi, sailing the East Coast of Australia. I hope this may this inspire him to live his life a little on the tilt, full of adventure and endless possibilities. My most favourite book of all time is Dr Seuss’s classic “Oh the places you’ll go”. It is profound in its simplicity and I have had the pleasure of reading it to many of my school students over the years. Now I look forward to reading it to Noah over and over again. If you haven’t ever read it, I encourage you to as well – You will love it! Here is the first paragraph.

"Congratulations, Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away!You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own.And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."

So with our Captain back tomorrow, and the crew complete, we will be en route to the Whitsundays. No doubt it will be a highlight of our year.

Great Keppel Island

2010-05-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

Fish count A=23 R=22.
The weather here at GKI has been absolutely PERFECT! Sunshine, blues skies and glass outs. How lucky we are! We up anchor everyday to explore a new bay, coral reef, walk on the beach, dive, fish and spear. We have eaten fresh fish every night since we have been here. Noah met his namesake (Noah’s Arkie Sharkie) washed up on the beach a couple of days ago. A bull shark whose very presence, although dead as a door nail, put a little wind up us in regards to our snorkelling explorations and hunting. But nevertheless the water is too beautiful to be deterred.
We continue to catch up with yachty friends that we’ve made along the way. The network of e-mails, radio scheds and information from other boats ensures an up to date communiqué between boats. For example Maripi’s big sister’ Omazey’ whom we met up the Mary River anchored close by us here for two nights with some tools borrowed from us to effect repair on their yacht. At times you feel like you are the only boat on the ocean and then you round up into a bay and see familiar hull shapes and faces. Some valuable and memorable times have been spent here with new friends Mark and Deb and their 10 year old son Fraser, spear fishing and chewing the fat.
Great Keppel Island is currently embroiled in a political dispute. The once vibrant and colourful island resort has been closed for the past few years, whilst the developer continues to fight the government for what some would say is a ridiculous redevelopment plan, including a marina and golf course (Hamilton Island style). So instead of maintaining the resort as is throughout the dispute process, the owner has pulled up stumps, taken his bat and ball and left the field, leaving behind a fenced off, boarded up multi-million dollar resort to succumb to the encroaching effects of Mother Nature. A swimming pool that Ro can remember doing back flips into only 5 years ago (whilst on a school trip from Tassie) is now unrecognisable. A sad and strange energy was present as we walked through there. Fortunately, the owners of the camp ground, bar and restaurant have regained control from the developer and were able to re-open with only 2 years absence and even then the task was huge to restore the facilities.
Celebrating their honeymoon on Great Keppel Island, we met Anna and Garth and their 4 month old gorgeous little girl Bonnie. Garth, originally from Tassie is a GP at Yeppoon. They married last weekend and escaped to the island for a little getaway following a week of celebrations with family and friends. We invited them out on the boat for what we refer to as ‘The honeymoon cruise’. They enjoyed snorkelling off the boat, while we kept both Bonnie and Noah entertained. Got a glimpse of what it would be like having twins!! We shared a fantastic day with them and Noah enjoyed his first date.
We have been following Jessica Watson’s blog over the past few months, especially after meeting and spending time with members of her team at the Mooloolaba marina. Yesterday afternoon we sailed into a beautiful bay (with tv reception) and were able to witness Jessica’s home coming from such an epic voyage. We are in awe and very proud of her achievements. What a AMAZING young lady.

Mud Crabs, Mother’s Day and High Visibility Shirts!!

2010-05-09T03:24:00.001-07:00

(Gladstone – Cape Capricorn-Yellow Patch)

We have spent the last 4 days tucked away in a pristine inlet on the north east coast of Curtis Island – called Yellow Patch; named for its distinctive pumpkin coloured sand dune. Again we have struck it lucky meeting Rick and Alison on their 42 ft luxurious Sea Ray Cruiser ‘Lady Diane’ – To us yachties we refer to these as “stink boats" but quietly very much admire them as well. Rick AKA “Crab Man”, loves mud crabs and ‘everything’ to do with fishing. We have feasted for the last two nights on his abundance of delicious mud crabs, to the point that we might be starting to grow claws and walk sideways ourselves! We have both taken turns in heading inland with Crab Man to pull the pots deep into mangrove territory, amazed at the beauty of the surroundings and wildlife.

To clarify the fishing competition rules, we can only add to our score when both of us are fishing at the same time. Therefore our score is a lot less that the actual amount of fish we are bagging. To this point we are 16 all. Here in Yellow Patch we have managed to catch an array of species including flathead, trevally, bream, flounder, stripey, whiting and a big fat ugly toad fish. Ro is mastering the art of cast netting, half filling the bucket with bait fish with just a few casts.

Yesterday, we went on a morning adventure which included a run in the dinghy, a climb up the sand dune with a height of at least 20m and a walk across the sand drift onto of the dune, where we felt like Lawrence of Arabia. If we walked a little further we would have reached the ocean on the other side, but having not prepared for such a long walk with little, but ever growing, Noah we decided to enjoy the view and soak in the “serenity “-a bit like Darryl from the movie “The Castle”. Check out the photos, they are great!

Earlier in the week back in Gladstone, we observed that when one wakes up the only decision needed is, “Which high visibility shirt will I wear today – the fluorescent green or fluoro orange?” This reflects a culture surrounding a town built around industry and mining. We were pleasantly surprised at what Gladstone has to offer with an excellent marina and harbour full of islands and bays to explore. We had a great time catching up with Ro’s sister Cherene and family.
After leaving Gladstone we decided to take the North Channel rather than up the Narrows as conditions were favourable for a fast 30 nm sail to Cape Capricorn where we spent a night awaiting high tide to successfully negotiate the tricky passage into beautiful Yellow Patch just a few miles away.

It’s Mother’s Day today, my very first and one I will always remember fondly thanks to the two gorgeous boys in my life. At 7:30am after feeding Noah, I jumped in the dinghy with Crab Man Rick and headed up the creek for a morning cruise to pull the crab pots. Upon my return Ro had cooked me pancakes with strawberry jam and cream....not good for the waistline – but a special treat. Ro had also stuck a note on Noah with some special words for Mother’s Day and an arrow saying Look under me.....I discovered a box complete with a big bow under the couch – It was a brand new hair dryer. So wonderful, as mine broke a little while ago. Although Ro said “It’s a pity I can’t use it on the boat as our inverter won’t accommodate the spark required. Ha! Oh Well, I shall just have to wait and doll up when we reach our next port. From here at Yellow Patch we will head to Great Keppel Island and surrounds before heading into Yeppoon.

1770 (Seventeen Seventy) - Fitzroy Reef - Pancake Creek

2010-05-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

1770 was all that we thought it might be- an idyllic, small, romantic, undeveloped coastal chill haven with a one hour walk to a more upbeat, modern beachside town of Agnes Waters with PUB. Beer and coffee at “The Tree Cafe’”, stand-up paddle boarding, morning dinghy rides for coffee from the marina and some special sunsets watched from the back deck with Noah. We were at anchor for six glorious days before heading for a 40 miles voyage to Fitzroy Reef.

Talk about MAGIC .......Fitzroy Reef Lagoon was like a millpond the day we entered (Anzac Day) after a perfect passage under sail timed to hit the tight entrance into the lagoon at low tide. With reef either side and Alana on the bow guiding us in, we entered mirror like waters, able to view fish at 8 metres deep feeding from the coral making our way to anchor in 10 metres where the bottom could be clearly seen and coral bombies avoided. The sky literally met the sea in a whole 360 deg. view that words could not describe as the reef is just that - with no land visible. At high tide it looks like you are just anchored in the middle of the ocean. We spent the day swimming, snorkelling, fishing and lazing about as you do in such a perfect setting.
As the sun started to set nearly a dozen recreational fishing boats joined us in the lagoon for the night for protection with an increase in wind up to nearly 30 knots creating quite a rough night for the smaller trailer able boats. The following morning all of these boats left for a dash for the mainland as it was the end of their long weekend and they had to be home for tea! As the radio traffic reflected throughout the day with increasing wave height outside the lagoon in open waters it reinforced the importance that you should not have a timetable when boating. One 6 metre boat nearly sank with a split hull and others had a terrible ride back to safe harbour. As for us, we had a lovely day at anchor and headed off to Pancake Creek the following day with a smaller sea and less wind.

It was Alana’s idea to head into Pancake as she read some great reviews that held so true to our experience: a safe anchorage, beautiful scenery, great company and more amazing sunsets. We were invited for morning tea which became lunch with Phil and Pat on their 40 ft Cat – Aquavista – which later turned into a boys afternoon of fishing, telling lies and yabbying. Phil and Pat not only are a great couple living their dream and have been for the past few years but also are brilliant mud crabbers in which their generosity proved a bonus for us!! On our last night of 3 in Pancake Creek with 8 boats at anchor we all met on a drying sandbank as the tide exposed it at 4 pm for a party which ended with a sunset to die for and ankle deep water as the sandbar was enveloped by the incoming tide just on dark.

The following morning we set off at sunrise for Gladstone with motor, sail and tide all working for us we made the 30 nm trip in less than 3 and a half hours to be along-side at Gladstone Marina to visit Ro’s sister and family and provision for an extended 2 weeks in the Keppels.
MOST IMPORTANTLY - Alana is now 10 – 8 up on the fish count. She even allowed Ro to count a grotty old catfish to his tally! – Now that is love!

The Eleventh Hour

2010-04-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

It was the 11th hour of our 15 hour night passage from Fraser Island to the Town of Seventeen Seventy (1770) that we were thinking when is this boy going to wake up?? Surfing down 2.5m swells at 4am in 25knots of wind, Noah awoke having slept right through for 11 hours straight! What a little legend! If there was ever a night you would hope he would sleep through, this was it! 
1770 bar-way can only be safely crossed heading towards a high tide. In our case this was 8am this morning and therefore necessary to do a night passage. As for Lady Elliott Island the sea conditions would have only dictated an uncomfortable anchorage so we changed plans and headed for 1770.
Beneath a clear and starry night we enjoyed beautiful sailing conditions in 10 - 15 knots for the first half of the 90 nautical mile journey. At this point we fell out of the lee of Fraser Island and experienced the full height of the south-east swell and more squally conditions reaching wind speed of over 25 knots. We were having a ball and Maripi behaved beautifully but with such precious cargo onboard we reduced sail making a more conservative approach to the mainland.
Sitting at anchor in 1770, the first landing for Captain Cook in Queensland in the year (you guessed it) 1770, we are looking forward to a couple of peaceful days discovering this sweet little coastal town and catching more fish.

Beer and Skittles

2010-04-17T02:17:00.000-07:00

Had a real ride down the Mary River with the tide pushing our girl along at 10 knots SOG (Speed over ground) at some stages with only one engine going. Plenty of boats upriver including “Maripi’s” big sister – a Prout 45 “Omazey” (Mal and June). Prout is a world famous British design for offshore cats with the record of nil loss at sea and the first catamaran to round Cape Horn. Their masts are well aft creating a highly manageable rig with the drive coming from the large headsail. As for “Maripi” – her design has been well proven having completed 16 Brisbane to Gladstone races with no forced retirements.
It is not always beer and skittles as ours is definitely an adventure and contrasts of experiences are all important if not guaranteed. You start to get used to the smell of roses when they are always in the room! So, after leaving the relative shelter of Mary River we entered once again into the Great Sandy Straits only to experience less than pleasant conditions with rain squalls reducing visibility and calling for a change of plans for our anchorage for the night. It took 3 shots at securing a good footing in steeply shoaling water rising from 15 metres deep to nothing in no time, with a ripping tidal flow making life difficult. Now combine this with whinging pom who takes it upon himself to try to tell me where to anchor and exactly how to go about it with cries from his boat as I was just doing same!!!! Arhhhh – give me 45 knots on the nose in the middle of Bass Strait any day instead of that!!!! So here we are in Kingfisher Bay, Fraser Island in a sloppy anchorage with Captain Pugwash as our neighbour and 10 other boats seeking what shelter can be gained.
On the “beer and skittles” side, Alana cooked a great stir fry washed down with bourbon and coke. She and Noah are sound asleep and I am about to watch an Austin Powers movie. God is good (but he continues to test us with the bloody Poms)!!!

Fish Tally 6 - 5

2010-04-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

We had a fast flat-water sail along the west coast of Fraser in clear waters, one very bloody long white beach and landmark features including the Arched and Triangle Cliffs (couldn’t see the circle or square nor Big Ted!!). We anchored in Lagoon Anchorage where our fishing competition began. Any of you who know Alana will know that this means serious business!
At 5 fish each (Bream) I was offered a lucky break from my little mate Noah whose cries for hunger gave me the chance to say to Lana, “Step away from the rod”. She was visibly shaken and torn between the competition and her motherly responsibilities. In this ‘no rules” competition I seized the opportunity and baited up once more much to Lana’s disgust and death stares. A few minutes later I had gotten onto what eventuated as a 1m shark. Game on!!! Fish tally Ro 6 –Lana 5 !!!!

Maryborough – A Pleasant Surprise

2010-04-17T02:14:00.000-07:00

Let’s talk a little about Maryborough – after all we travelled 20 nautical miles pushing a 2 knt tide up a muddy, winding, mudflats infested, big logs floating by river to get here. We arrived after a surprisingly picturesque voyage passing poaching fishermen with staked out nets and redneck “what are you lookin’ at” glares, sugarcane crops and farms to be finally greeted by Des – self appointed harbour master who was glad to take our lines. Apparently we are the first southerners to arrive this season heading north for winter. Consequently the chandlery opened its doors and the cafe turned on the espresso machine – but no pipe band!!!!!
Famous for many things, not in the least the birth place of P.L. Travers, the author of the Mary Poppins books and the place of Australia's only outbreak of pneumonic plague in 1905, Maryborough was the place where over 22,000 immigrants took their first step on Australian soil arriving from all parts of the world. It is a place of massive history in agriculture, railway engineering and boat building. A large number of Naval boats were launched here the size and number of which amazed us as we looked at photos in the museum. For what is in reality an inland country town to in-fact be the birth place of so many fine ocean going vessels is indeed out of place. I note, Maryborough was touted as being a real option for the capital of this fine state. There is no nightlife in the city and the pace is pretty slow only coming to life every ‘Market Thursday’ when all forms of life as we know it (and not) come out to play. Sounds very much like Brisbane really!!!
Maryborough is steeped in history with one photo taking our interest in one of the old pubs. (We have taken a photo of the photo if that makes sense!) The caption read “Patriotic Procession 1918” and it struck a real chord in us as to how early on in our great country’s history people actively acknowledge the importance of nation and being towards the end of WW1 patriotism was heading to great heights. I do think we have witnessed a revival over the past decade in regards passion for county which is evident on Australia Day but let’s keep that on the down-low because Alana thinks everyone is just celebrating her birthday on Jan 26!
We met a lovely old couple whom have lived in the area all their lives. Following the war the husband’s father was forced to sell their dairy farm and move the family to town. It broke the poor bloke’s heart so in 1956 he bought 15 acres near town and started growing sugarcane all by hand. He expanded over time to 135 acres and still grows cane and some potatoes (“not like those big bastards you grow in Tassie” he remarked). If the lines across his face were words it would be a best seller we are sure. They go to the pub every Monday night for the mixed grill special without failure.
“Maryborough – a beautiful place that doesn’t seem to be going far but has come a long way”

Great Sandy Straits/Fraser Island

2010-04-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

A 40 knot sou’ east wind, 6 metre swell and waves crashing on either side of the entrance made crossing the Wide Bay Bar extremely treacherous with a couple of boats coming to grief with the total loss of one vessel...........but that was last week.
Our experience was much less stressful.  We left Mooloolaba at 5am to reach Wide Bay Bar at 2pm. The crossing was smooth as Captain Robbo kept his crew safe and sound as his navigation was spot on. We sailed in and spent the next couple of nights in Pelican Bay near Tin Can Bay. Ro took the kayak for a paddle and found treasure in an abandoned sinking vessel close to shore. We are sure there will be lots of interesting treasures to find along our way.
Hit by a thunderstorm on the second night in Pelican Bay creating an amazing light and sound show that kept Noah entertained until he got tired of it and fell into a deep sleep with lightning and thunder crashing around as his lullaby.
Sunshine blessed us as we sailed north through the passage between Fraser Island and the mainland and navigated up the Mary River to Maryborough. It is unlikely that we will do any other upriver expeditions so we thought we would take this chance and spend a couple of days here as a less desirable weather pattern passes. The meals at the Post Office Hotel were worth crossing the oceans for!!!!
Weather permitting we plan to spend a couple of days on the Fraser Is west coast before making passage for Lady Elliott Island and then on to Lady Musgrave Island, Fitzroy Reef and ......???

Easter with Family

2010-04-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the Easter Bunny found us as we spent Easter with family and friends on the Gold Coast. Noah was happy to see his Nanny Dee, Pop Pete, Aunty Lauren and Uncle Troy again, along with his Great Grandparents Norm and Shirley, Great Aunty Andy and second cousins Ali and Rhys (and Elisse) at an Easter BBQ. It was good to touch base before we head north again. Jemima and Jock flew up from Tassie to visit their new little brother and spend some quality time with us. Noah has grown a lot since they saw him at his baptism. It was so nice having the 3 kids together sharing Noah’s very first Easter. Noah also enjoyed a beautiful brunch with his mum’s girlfriends (Steph, Celina, Caroline, Amy and Maria at Caroline’s place. Thanks Caz! Noah thinks his mum’s friends are all so special. Also a big thanks to Janene for his special pair of blue crocs –Noah is looking forward to being able to fit into them.  It was also great to catch up with Rizza and Sheila and the girls who were visiting the Gold Coast from Tassie.
We made some great new friends in Mooloolaba – Robyn and Craig (Unhinged) from Newcastle, Ginny and Greg (Spirited – Silver Edition) from Yeppoon and Glen and Marilyn (Tin Soldier) from Canada who we hope to catch up with as we cruise north. Some readers may recognise Ginny and Greg’s yacht as it set the record for the first solo around the world Tasmanian, Australian Grandfather and maybe others with Ken Gourley at the helm. Ginny and Greg are now the very proud owners of ‘Spirited – Silver Edition’

The Waiting Game - Mooloolaba Style

2010-03-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

Been chilling out in Mooloolaba waiting to see what Cyclone Ilui was doing and for the seas to settle down before heading north to tackle the well respected Wide Bay Bar - the entrance to Tin Can Bay and the sheltered waters leading inside Fraser Island and into the Sandy Straits. It has been a great opportunity to catch up with a few things on the boat and enjoy all that Mooloolaba has to offer.
The swell has been amazing with surf breaking across the entrance. A boat attempted to leave yesterday whilst Ro was out surfing and lost a passenger overboard (over the bow) when it was hit by a rouge wave. Luckily a wave jumping jet skier got to him in time.

Noah has been treated to daily walks either in his pram or strapped to his Mum or Dad in his "Snuggli" front pack and his life has been pretty much eat, sleep, smile, cry, eat some more and sleep again and ALWAYS filling nappies. We are getting lots of sleep as Noah only wakes up once during the night for a feed. He is an absolute gem. His personality is really showing now and he wants to be part of everything but is restricted being stuck in his little 7 week old body. He is on the move a bit this week and keeping Lana on her toes as his strength and movement increases. This kid will be running in no time!!

We met some great like-minded people on both water and land. At the marina the yatchies are either waiting out the weather as well or still "waiting it out" having arrived in port 10 years ago!! Plenty of "live-a-boards" planning to continue their journey "soon". They have a pretty laid back lifestyle and the general concensus is "It's always 5 o'clock somewhere!!!"
We checked the long range weather today and for the time being it looks like there will be more Mooloolaba-ing, coffee-ing, tag-team swimming, kayaking and surfing, walking, reading, route planning and loving little Noah. We are in no hurry.

We had some parenting guidance given to us at Coles Supermarket from a lovely Indonesian lady who asked "How old dis baby" and upon our reply she said "He should not be outside for 40 days back in my country". We know Noah is pretty special but to be put in excile like the bloke who spent 40 days and nights in the desert could be a bit much for the little fella. Should have seen her face when we told her that he swam in the sea at just 5 weeks! He only swam - not quite walked on water!! :)

Anyway it has been fun catching up with family and friends in the area. We had our first Sunday roast on the boat last night....Beautifully cooked Ro! Next week we will drive down to the Gold Coast to spend Easter with family and hopefully when we return the weather will give us the window to venture north. :)

Dolphins, Dugongs and Diapers!

2010-03-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

Set Sail Saturday morning from Sanctuary Cove to Slipping Sands where we were met by our good friends Scotty and Sal and their daughters Lily and Phoebe for a fun farewell Sunday lunch. We spent Sunday night at Myora with dugongs and turtles. Weather was beautiful Monday as we set off to Manly Brisbane for the night where we caught up with more friends. Dolphins were a plenty on our glassy and blue sky crossing to Tangalooma and a beautiful anchorage at Lucinda Bay.
Noah had his very first ocean swim, one of many to come. :)
A 2m swell met us as we left the protection of Moreton Bay and we were pleased to poke our nose into Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast before the southerly change. Weather will probably lock us in here for at least the week until it passes. Noah adjusting to boat life well, lots of smiles, nappies and no dummy....well at least not yet! :)

All Aboard!

2010-01-14T16:32:00.000-08:00

Ro and Lana are delighted to welcome aboard our beautiful son and little shipmate Noah. Now 5 weeks on - We are at sea and heading north! :)

We look forward to many adventures and discoveries on our journey this year as we sail the Queensland Coast onboard Maripi, our faithful catamaran.

We will endeavour to update this blog and post photos regularly. We look forward to hearing from you along the way. Our e-mail address is maripisailing@gmail.com

Keeping in touch with friends and loved ones.
Captain Ro, Lana and first mate little Noah
xx