Yacht Delivery Blog

We finally arrived in Darwin a few days ago. After anchoring near the quarantine berth, we awaited notification from the Australian Border Force (ABF) that they were ready for us to approach the dock. Biosecurity was our first hurdle, and their inspector meticulously checked our provisions, filtering out anything not allowed in the country. One of the challenges of long passages is the ever-changing itinerary. Ten days prior to Darwin, our plan was entirely different, placing us in a different port with different regulations on permitted items. However, we completely understand and respect biosecurity measures to prevent invasive species. Cooperation is key, and causing a fuss over confiscated items won't change regulations. The ABF and biosecurity officers were professional and efficient, making the clearance process smooth. But then came a challenge I'd never encountered before – a marina lock! The Lagoon 50 is 8.1 meters wide, and the advertised lock width is 9 meters – not ...

I’m happy to report that we have finally made it through the Torres Strait , It was not an easy feat, but we managed to do it with some luck and skill!  The last section of the strait is extremely narrow and shallow, with many reefs and islands to avoid. I had been concerned about getting through in daylight, as the visibility is crucial for spotting the hazards. I had considered anchoring for the night, but eventually decided to push on and we made it into clear water before sunset, leaving just a couple of shoals to navigate through into open water. Generally, I would be very cautious of a 9-meter patch, but when the rest of the depth is 13 meters, it doesn’t seem too bad. Of course, the strait is not the only danger we faced on this voyage. Since I have so far been attacked by birds and several vicious flying fish, I am very cautious of what nature can throw at you. After reading today a catamaran that was sailing from Vanuatu to Australia sank after being attacked by sharks I ...