Pearl on "our"jetty watching the clothes washing process
The bridge was cleared without any problems or "discussions"
Threading Manatee through the narrow Swansea Bridge
After a quick brekkie east of the bridge we logged us all on with Swansea Coast Guard who
requested that we report to Port Stephens Coast Guard half way along Stockton Bight...so far, so good. Seas were a little choppy at first but we always remain confident in Manatee's seagoing abilities.
Stockton Bight prior to the swell increasing
Toward Stockton Bight the seas became more than choppy, with the swell at times nearing 5metres. It looked like we were perched on top of a two storey building at times. Marg started singing Beach Boys tunes and Jacki started puking. Related....who knows?? We had decided to tether Jacki and Ruby in the wheel house to let them be near us and the breeze rather than downstairs with Pearl and Idge. Our only real concern was the dinghy swinging off the davitts, it showed how unprepared we were to not have Ini the inflatable lashed to the deck. She survived the journey but not her first night at Nelson Bay!
Along the way we heard the coast guard operators talking on a back station which amused us
operator in cultured voice: "did you get the details on Manatee?"
broad Aussie operator: "yeh how many dogs were there?"
Mr culture: "yes, well they are from Tasmania"
Mr Aussie: "yeh I'll get Immigration to clear them in Port, chuckle chuckle"
We are very proud that Manatee hails from Tasmania!
We arrived at Port Stephens heads at 1438 and did a quick survey before mooring on a freebie at Nelson Bay Beach.
No comments:
Post a Comment