TripSailor.com® Sailing Blogs

On the 25^th weather looked perfect to leave Bathurst but unfortunately once we had rounded Cape Melville conditions deteriorated and with wind and tide against us it was quite a battle to make headway.  However we punched out to the edge of the reef and that afforded good protection which gave us a reasonably comfortable trip till be left it behind and had to go another 4nm to the night anchorage at Bewick Island a little north of the Howicks.  Met up with Col and Vicky off Pacific Lady there.  Very rocky beaches but Norm did manage to get ashore.  Bed early and by 01.00 on 26^th headed for Cape Flattery.  Conditions were good and after a short stopover at the Turtle Group finally anchored at Flattery at 10.30.  Decided to clean the bottom of the boat in the shallows just off the beach, with Dawn keeping lookout.  5 minutes into the job and she is telling me to get out of the water quickly.  4m croc is making a beeline for me.  Managed to get on board just in time to see it swim past the boat.  Thank goodness Dawn was keeping watch and the water was very shallow and clear.  It’s my Birthday today – someone saving your life has to be the best present!!!  So sad that with the water so inviting it unsafe to swim etc. anywhere here.