Cruising in Westernport Bay
Westernport Bay, a couple of hours SE of Melbourne. Prior to having the boat down there it used to just be the bay I had to drive around to get to the surf at Phillip Island. Exploring it by boat has revealed the relatively pristine habitat of mangroves and shallow waterways. Home to many migratory bird species.
Australian Pelicans, Cormorants, Black Swans & Ducks
Australian White Ibis feeding in the mudflats off French Island at low tide
Westernport is a sheltered sailing ground, although subject to strong tides.
Chicory lane, French Island. Uncrowded anchorages were easy to find.
We ran into things. Having not sailed for a few years, the re-learning curve was quick. Maneuvering a small, full keeled, heavy boat of around 3.5 tons with a 10hp motor can be tricky, especially in tight marinas.
We ran aground in soft mud. Luckily on an incoming tide. We jumped overboard, sinking up to our knees in mud and walked Heart of Gold back into the channel.
There are some fun waves tucked inside Westernport Bay. Point Leo breaking on a big SW swell.
Lu getting a feel for the helm
Noisy Corellas descend upon Hastings. The birds cause havoc in the marina, swinging off aerials and wind instruments on top of masts.
The Navik windvane hangs off the stern and steers the boat automatically. It took a few adjustments to get it level and balanced, and has been working well. A little tricky to set in light winds but once adjusted correctly it steers a straight course.
Tortoise Head, French Island
Submarine HMAS Otama. Built 1973, Launched 1975 (similar time to Heart of Gold). Length 295 ft, Status: awaiting preservation.
Flinders shoreline transitions
We spent a month at Hastings marina preparing for the voyage east along the Victorian coast.
Looking north from Flinders yacht club