Matey's musings: Ninian Bay

After waiting for the succeeding high pressure systems in the Bight to weaken so that the south easterly winds stopped howling up the north Queensland coast, we were finally able to return to the benefits of so-called civilization. Admittedly, the notion of fresh fruit and the mangoes ripening in Cooktown did make this prospect tempting, after six weeks without fresh fruit, and even longer without internet or phone reception.

Flinders Island is not a difficult place to pass time. Matey couldn’t really wish for more spectacular scenery, though the lack of fresh water is a constant concern. National Parks have kindly provided two rainwater tanks (with a roof to catch it) but you need to be mindful of other boats who might be passing through before the wet season begins, so being parsimonious with water remains important in these otherwise dry islands.

The day when the wind was forecast to ease off to 10–15 knots arrived, with 10 knots forecast for the following day and 10–15 again for the next. This provided an opportunity to 'run' for Cape Flattery, where we would have internet and phone access at least, and then there would be just one final leg to Cooktown. We’d still be going against the wind, but not against 25–30 knots of it; with a broken rudder cable and limping boat we didn’t want to tempt fate.

The plan was to leave early each morning before the wind strengthened; first stop would be Cape Melville. Fortunately conditions were better than forecast and we were able to continue to Ninian Bay, where discovered a beautiful freshwater lake rich with melaleucas, magpie geese, and of course crocs!

The next day after another 4 am start we anchored at Cape Flattery and today we reached Cooktown and the joy of fresh fruit! Just before we arrived a large Bludger Trevally hooked itself and provided dinner. New rudder cables can now be ordered.