All fixed

Slipped at HBYC, mainly to remove and service the prop of course, but also took the opportnity to clean the hull, check anodes etc. Prop now all functioning correctly, freshly anifouled, and GD will be relaunched in an hour or so.

Back in Williamstown

Anchored overnigth in Flinders, due to lack of drive from the prop.  First light - thats around 0630 - I was over the side in rather chilly conditions, to inspect the problem (there were no other volunteers).  It was clear that weed was not the problem, rather a stuck or siezed prop blade, and it needed removal for servicing/ repair.  Thats difficult in the water, especially away from home due to lack of transport, tools etc.  Hence because of proximity, it was decided that Hobos's was the best option, and we sailed back to the yard, tied up at around 5.15 pm and arranged slipping tomorrow morning. Once the problem is known, it can be better assessed and further decisions made.

problem

The prop seems to have collected a large amount of weed and crap, which has slowed progresss a lot.  Couldn't shake it off, so have proceded into Flinders; currently at anchor and feeling very benevolant toward the world at large after a wine, a nice dinner and some calm weather.  Intend to inspect the problem in daylight as early as possible in the morning, hopefully remove the offending crud so we can proceed.  I guess the the job is mine, as the water looks decidedly cool....  At present though, the bunk is warm and STILL, so until morning... .

First night at sea

Enjoy your dinner and have a good nights sleep. Early swim, for you, before heading off tomorrow. Thinking of you all.

Off Cape Schank

Passing cape Schank at 1430 on a mild and calm afternoon.  The late pm sun is behind us making a great view of the coast.  Starting to settle down for the night.

They are sailing....

It's official they are sailing.

Departure

Today is calm as predicted, and finally...   we slipped the berth at Williamstown 0740 this morning, and currently motor sailing toward the Rip in fairly flat and calm conditions.  Theres a lot of miles ahead, but we have 14 behind us already, and pleased to be away at last.

Departure Sunday 17 April

Very excited skipper and crew this morning as they sailed out of Hobson's Bay. I wish you fair winds and flat seas.

Flag "P" hoisted

It looks good for a departure sunday am, so after another day in the pen, we're all set.

Outlook now improving

Finally, after 8 days of frustration, cooling the heels, the outlook is starting to look better for the trip through Bass Strait.  So today will be another day of renewed preparations.

Bollocks weather

Looking at these charts, you can see why there are multiple coastal waters warnings in exactly the place we want to be.

 

Not quite the perfect storm, but quite unpleasant.

Still here

After listening all night to the the rain lashing the decks, wind whistling through the rigging, and waves slapping against the hull, think we might remain a little longer yet.  Waiting, waiting....

Preparations still happening

Yes, we are supposed to be long gone, but those many last minute things are still happening.  Now where is all this dirty engine oil in the bilge coming from ??

Still waiting...

Remain in the pen, but now learning the source of all the little deck & hatch leaks in the rain. Oh Joy...

Roast dinner with family in Willy

I know you a disappointed but you would have missed out on a roast dinner in Willy. Fingers crossed for Monday.

Still in WIlliamstown...

Fully loaded: all tanks, fridga & freezer full, chomping at the bit, but winds today are rather poor, especially for the fisrt day out.  So - still in the pen, waiting.... waiting....