Crossing the Gulf

The big crossing – three days and two nights of continuous sailing to traverse the 380 nm across the Gulf of Carpentaria.  The first half of the trip was fine – a bit of a swell in the shallow water but pleasant 15 knot wind off the port rear quarter.  Then the wind increased to 20 – 25 knots and the water became like a washing machine – Waves higher than the cabin of Jolie Brise and coming from all directions.  Bob and Rob were in the cockpit getting wet and I lay in the V-berth groaning and being tossed first up then down then sideways.  It all came to an end about 10 pm Saturday the 23^rd when we anchored in Gove Harbour after 60 hours of sailing and 30 hours of very unpleasant seas. (We are publishing this 7 days later because this is the first time we have had internet and telephone coverage)