Our Darwin leg is nearing its conclusion. Yesterday I was meticulously scanning the horizon, when a faint squawk pierced the air. Initially dismissing it as background noise, I was brought back to reality with the magic words: "on channel 16." Radio? Who could be calling?
My inspirational view while I try to think what to write.
Having spent time in Asia, where Channel 16 is a free-for-all chat line, I tend to keep it switched off. But a nagging suspicion gnawed at me. I lifted my gaze from the sea and there it was, a plane circling overhead. The Australian Coast Guard Patrol was attempting contact!
After exchanging pleasantries and providing some basic details, our aerial visitor continued on its patrol.
Speaking of communication, Starlink has become an absolute game-changer on this trip. It's hard to imagine how we managed without it before. Sure, it provides essential communications and real-time weather updates, but it's the little things that truly impress.
For example, thanks to Starlink, we were able to pull up Google Earth and get a detailed look at the Darwin customs wharf. A quick cross-check on Google Maps revealed a conveniently located fuel pump that accepts credit cards! With any luck, this means we can top off the tanks while going through customs, minimizing downtime and getting us ready to set sail on our next adventure.
With just 178 nautical miles left, we're practically within sniffing distance of those iconic Australian gum trees. The wind is cooperating somewhat, hovering around a manageable 10-12 knots. The only snag? It's blowing right from the direction we want to go! This headwind is making for a bit of a slog, but we're still on track to tie up at the customs wharf by around midday tomorrow.