Menu Close

Author: Paul McDonald

Hurry up and wait

Paul McDonald

After a very enjoyable evening at anchor in the bay of islands, we heard on the grapevine that there may be some good news regarding the weather.

After rushing back to the marina we found that the situation had not changed that much. It is unlikely that we will be able to leave before Monday, most likely Tuesday, possibly neither.

After a few boat chores we set off in Phillip’s loaner X6 across the car ferry to Russell for a very enjoyable lunch and a cruise around that side of the bay of islands.

How many times can you check the weather in a day…

Paul McDonald

We have 4 people on board, each with at least 2 devices, each with access to Predictwind or Windy.com or Metbob or any of a host of other sources each checked almost continuously…The message is consistently don’t leave now!

In the meantime, we had an enjoyable overnight out in the bay of islands and even managed to rendezvous with our friends Trevor and Gill on Phoenix for sundowners.

We may go out for a few days later in the week and go a little further afield.

A bit of an anticlimax…

Paul McDonald

The little system up north is developing into something bigger…. 🙁

While we could have a good 800nm, the final 200nm would be VERY uncomfortable so we, along with the rest of the fleet, have decided to delay our departure. For how long is anybody’s guess (hopefully days, but it could be weeks).

We shall go for a local sail in the BoI for the next couple of days though.

We are ready…. but unfortunately still waiting…

We are ready to sail!

Paul McDonald

The jobs list has no high priority items on it. The freezers are full (thankfully after being fixed by Joe from Northfreeze !), The engine and Genset are fully serviced, the rigging is tip-top (thanks Sean and Buddha). Crew ready go!

We are scheduled to clear out of NZ tomorrow for a departure on Monday (or Tuesday, weather depending).

Just getting here has been a journey and many people have willing helped the cause. (I have put several NZ kids through private school though!) Special mention to Philip the builder who has lent me his spare car for the week… It was so helpful!

Crew relaxed and looking forward to the cruise
Thanks Philip!

Only 3 more sleeps… (weather permitting)

Paul McDonald

The jobs list is finally getting to a manageable size! Michelle has been making Mari look pretty today and Dave has been playing plumber, installing a new kitchen tap, all day.

There is a weather system developing near Vanuatu that may delay our departure, but the fleet is still aiming for Monday.

Final crew member Greg arrives this evening.

Dave the plumber
You missed a spot Michelle!
Looking good and ready to sail… Roll on Monday!

Looking forward to sailing under the full moon next week.