Setting out from Long Point with Valerie we try for Wineglass Bay a part of Freycinet National Park on the east coast of Tasmania. Heard a lot about Wineglass Bay so looking forward to the trails leading up to a lookout for panoramic views.
Wind was coming from the north and not too strong at this point, maybe only gusting to 25knots, but we were used to that especially after our Bass Strait crossing. The downwind sail was very relaxing and of course yours truly needs a nap by this time with all the gentle rolling of the boat. Puts me to sleep every time. Just drifting off to sleep down below when Jacqui yells out that she needs my help.
Went up into the cockpit and it was like all hell had broken loose. Wind gusting, waves splashing over the deck! The wind had picked up and was gusting over 40 knots at one point out of the west. We knew it was changing to the west. The forecast did not say anything about gusting 40! Had to reel in the fishing line and Valerie went down for the lifejackets. It kept on gusting like that all the way down to the entrance to Wineglass Bay and by this time it was pouring with rain and shifting towards the south. We needed to get into Wineglass for some protection but there was no way we could beat into that to get into the bay. We had to motor past the entrance to the bay and try to seek some relief from the cliffs that surround the bay entrance.
At one point Jacs said we may have to run with it! That meant turning with it and heading out to sea! Poor Cap’n Jac was absolutely soaked and her hands were about freezing. Thankfully she had invested in some wet gear and sailor wellies. Well we went past the entrance about a half mile and turned back towards the entrance. By this time the winds had subsided a little and the sea was not so angry. Made our way into the bay as the storm decreased to find that by the time we anchored in the bay it was like it never happened. Time for some fresh undies!
“…and her hands were about freezing” hm – Below three in North Van and -29C in Edmonton
Well done MAD crew and what a pay off! Good practice for your upcoming Overland Track,! ??