Arriving Sydney

North Head

On 14 March we finally entered Port Jackson, which includes North, Middle and Sydney Harbours - plenty for us to explore over the next fortnight. And what a striking view, as we entered: sails everywhere, with all the yacht and dinghy clubs out racing, the fleets all 'threading the needle' between the high-speed ferries and each other.

Family-free zone

We motored pretty close under North Head as we expected family to be there for an arrival photo op'. Turns out they were actually stuck in a traffic-jam in Manly - how very Sydney, a city where it takes a minimum of 45 minutes to drive anywhere!

Who should we meet instead? Why, Chris Mallet, former DBYC member and Harlequin of old (nick-named 'The Commodore' during the rudder loss incident in PNG), as he flashed past on an Adams 10, pre-start maneuvering for a MHYC Saturday race.

Wave from 'The Commodore'

Then in to Middle Harbour itself to await the 1500 opening of the Spit Bridge and a short motor up to Cammeray Marina where we'd booked a berth alongside for the night - the better to have family & friends aboard to pop a few bottles of arrival fizz!

Spit Bridge

Just as well we were on time, though, as we just caught the crew of another yacht who had taken our spot and were just stepping off for a night ashore! Luckily the dock manager arrived and re-located them to a nearby mooring, or all our arrival fizz-popping plans would have been blown!

Shortly after, the important groceries were delivered: ice-cold beer, bubbly, ice and nibbles. All to be sherpa'ed down the 200 steps to the marina, but that just served to work up a thirst! Let the party commence!

Cheers from Sydney!!!