North to Bowen

Memories of our trip north from Airlie to Bowen in 2008 enticed us to head there again. We were able to catch light winds and the tide to make the trip comfortably sailing 95% of the way. We stayed several night in beautiful Bona Bay, shadowed by the high hills of
Glouctester Island. Sadly we did not repeat the spotted mackerel experience of last year but several school sharks did get on our trawling line. They were not received as enthusiastically as the mackerel! On Friday we had another lovely sail to Bowen where we anchored just outside the marina. Peter was delighted to note several boats had ‘beached’ on the front town beach and promptly did the calculations on when we could do the same. On Saturday we dinghed ashore and re-visited the town. We enjoy the history of the place which is cleverly depicted in murals painted on town buildings. The locals are very welcoming and we enjoy the hospitality, shopping and coffees… Saturday afternoon saw us high and dry and Peter was able to change the oil in the sail drive gear box – mission accomplished! On Sunday morning, because the winds were right, we hoisted the sails to head back to the Eco Resort for a late Fathers Day lunch which was yummy and, then anchored overnight at pretty little Breakfast Bay. We caught the tide and wind just right on Monday morning for an exhilerating 5 hour sail which saw us at Gulnere anchorage near Hamilton Island by 1pm. We were able to sail around 8 knots for a good portion of that time which is really good for FA