Away!

Jack Tar is underway! After a supply run to Simi and Rhodes, where we stocked up on cheaper Greek wine and groceries, such as good spicey salamis, not available in Turkey. Then a great downwind sail 45 nm back to the Turkish coast at Fethiye. Unfortunately the weather was not kind and it turned rainy and very cold. After a day at anchor in Fethiye Bay the rain lifted to reveal snow capped mountains; no wonder we were so cold. From Fethiye we have sailed east to Kalkan, one of the prettiest towns we have experienced in Turkey, where we are now basking in warm sunshine.

Ready Away

The deadline for departure from Marmaris is at hand. Accompanied by friends Barry and Maryanne who will crew with us for the EMYR, [they are leaving their own boat, Toroa 111, in Marmaris for the duration of the rally] we are about to head off to the Greek islands of Simi and Rhodes before making our way east to Kekova Roads where we will join the other rally yachts. Except for the installation of a new boom tent, preparations are virtually complete. Our new genoa is rigged and we are looking forward to seeing it perform.

Magical Mystery Tour - 09 Ready to go!

Jack Tar`s crew is back aboard. After a 40 hr journey via Hong Kong we found the yacht safe and sound on the hard stand despite some ferocious winter storms having caused chaos in the marina. Large waves crashed over the sea walls and strong winds blew down some light buildings. So we were pleased to find that the only damage suffered was a tear or two in our winter cover. We did take time out for catching up with friends made in earlier seasons and the marina bar and restaurant were a constant source of revelry. After a clean up and touch up of the anti-foul paint we were ready for the water. Jammed in as we were on the hard, like sardines, after those yachts due for earlier launching were cleared out, we were ready to go. The organization is very professional, and on cue, the team arrived to lift us and transfer to the travel lift for launching. A final brush of paint and then we were lowered into the water and Jack Tar was almost ready for sea. Rerigging running rigging and sails will do it. We plan on joining the East Mediterranean Yacht Rally which will see 65 yachts sail south Turkey, north Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Egypt. Should be fun.

Holiday Snaps

Marmaris to Noosa

After much preparation JACK TAR was lifted onto the hard for the winter and we flew home via Istanbul, where we revisited the sites and lunched at our favourite Kybele Hotel in Sultanahmet. Then a short stopover in Singapore for chilli crab at Newton Circus.
Back home by the canal in Noosa it has been a busy time. Early walks and swimming at main beach. Beer at the yacht club by the river! To Moolooba and to sea with Tim and Carol in their new Arrow Cat. To Imbil and the pub, the arrival of the valley Rattler and lunch at the farm with Jim and Sue. The farmers market. To Brisbane and coffee in Park Road and lunch at the club. And Xmas by the river.