#87 NOW January 25, 2006 1610—UTC +10 hours (Tasmania, Australia) Tied to a mooring buoy at Port Arthur (S43’08.9 E147'51.3). 72 degrees Greetings, Ah Tasmania—a place located in a far corner of the world. I have always thought of Tasmania as being remote, at the “end of the road,” similar to Timbuktu, or Katmandu. It is true, that the only thing south of here is Antarctica, which is the only continent I have not been too. Hum, Maybe—No forget it! I departed Flinders Island around noon for an all night run to Wineglass Bay. There were strong wind warnings to 30 knots, but then that is the case most of the time. The ride was a bit rough, but nothing Done Dreamin’ couldn’t handle. Wineglass Bay is a delightful spot shaped like a wineglass with a pure white sandy beach backed by red rocks; thus the name Wineglass Bay. I launched my kayak and was soon walking along the shore feeling the fine Tasmanian sand ooze between my toes. It was good to get some exercise and enjoy a lovely day on this secluded beach. However, as with wine at the wrong time, Wineglass Bay at the wrong time can be a problem. The Bay is fairly well protected from all winds except those from the Northeast, and of course, that is exactly where they were coming from. I let out a little more chain and the full 25 feet of nylon bridle. The 110 lb Bruce Anchor dug in and even five foot breaking waves did not budge us an inch. As for sleep—that would have to come another night. The next morning I left for Spring Bay. This spot was inland about 10 miles, behind some islands, and up a cove, around a corner. I was in need of sleep, this looked like just the spot, and indeed, it was. I dropped the hook and spent three nights in undisturbed blissful sleep. During the day, I worked on various projects the major one being permanently mounting and wiring up the new DC boost pump for the watermaker. I also replaced some hoses that were looking bad. This morning at 0500, I left Spring Bay for a run down the coast to Port Arthur. This was perhaps the prettiest passage I have made since arriving in Australia. The bold majestic cliffs along the coastline were massive, giving you a feeling of insignificance. I was reminded of Gibraltar as I rounded Tasman Island (In this case, I am referring to a rocky Island by that name just off Cape Pillar, not the whole island of Tasmania) with its tall white lighthouse on the summit and shear rocky face. I pulled into Port Arthur around 1600, picking up a mooring buoy. Tomorrow, I shall explore this historical place that was once a prison for the worst offenders. The nights have been cool in the 50’s and the days are pleasant in the 60’s and low 70’s. This is weather to my liking; that is, if I can find a day when the wind is not blowing a gale. Life is a Cruise Larry -- Larry Rick Done Dreamin' Nordhavn 40 #33 Site: http://gricknet.homedns.org/Dads%20Web/doneDreamnHome.htm