A wonderful trip to Southport

12 to 15 October 2023

Arrived safely in Southport on Sunday. After some headwinds on the first day, the next three days were fabulous. Calm seas, gentle breezes, and sunny days. The moonless nights made the heavens sparkle brilliantly with countless stars, and meteors occasionally streaked across the sky.

We sighted several whales along the way. We also saw dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and various sea birds.

It’s been tricky planning the return voyage to avoid bad weather. We delayed our departure from Airlie Beach for 3 days due to strong headwinds. Fortunately, we were able to reach Southport before gales raced up the coast. We’re now waiting for the strong winds to ease and the rough seas to calm. It looks like this might take several days, so we’ve paused for the week. The crew has left, and we don’t expect to call up their replacements until next week. Catherine and I have decided to fly home until there is better weather to deliver Debonnaire to Sydney.

A big thank you to the crew that delivered Debonnaire to Southport: Eliz, Richard, Anne, and Steve. You laboured the first day as we pushed into the weather, waters breaking over the bow. But thereafter, it was a glorious voyage until Debonnaire was safely berthed at Southport. Catherine and I enjoyed having you aboard.