We did the second night sail of this trip on the way from Middle Percy to Great Keppel. This time however, the wind, waves and tide were smoother than the last overnight voyage. Avoiding main shipping channels and big, scary tankers, we could even get some sleep.
‘The guiding light of the stars led the way, as we cruised through the deep but gentle waters of the Coral Sea. As a mantel of millions of pearls painted on a ceiling canvas, they sneaked, timidly between the passing clouds’.
Taking two hour shifts again, we did 130 nautical miles, arriving just after breakfast. Dolphins greeted us on our entry to one of the bays of Keppel, another one of the many delights of this adventure.
As this was our second time sailing at night, we (Guido and Nivi) knew what to expect and what to be aware of. And even though we were just as eager to try out the trials of the night, as the fist time, the much better conditions made it a more relaxed experience.
We anchored in the bay on the northern side of the island as the wind and swell were easterly. This morning we went ashore and explored the beach and lagoon. The wind for this afternoon was predicted to be northerly so we hauled anchor around 10am and motored around to a bay on the southern side.
We have had lunch but we are still worn out from all the mornings activity, so exploring this bay will have to wait till tomorrow.
