JERUSALEM BAY/REFUGE BAY , MAY 2021

Blustery conditions didn’t deter 7 boats from heading around the corner

For the first time in a while the weather forecast was quite accurate in predicting that the weekend would bring strong winds on the Saturday with Sunday fine, with no rain and light winds.

Taranaki had been on anchor on Friday night in Jerusalem Bay and reported that the conditions weren’t ideal for anchoring on Saturday night. As such, everyone decided that Refuge would be a better option.

We had a wind of around 15 knots from the SW on Saturday blowing up Pittwater, giving Rendezvous a quick sail up the centre of the  bay with only a headsail. We were sailing at close to 7 knots and catching up to Masquerade who was off West Head. On rounding West Head the wind had increased to 28 knots from the west and was going with a run out tide, so it was quickly down with the head sail, on with the motor and make for Refuge and seek the SYCC moorings to provide shelter. We all took up the spare buoys nearby and settled down out of the windy conditions.  

We gathered for early sundowners with a talk by Derek on what to keep in your tool kit to take care of any problems that can happen when on a cruise. There was great input from everyone and a tasty selection of the usual nibbles and camaraderie made for a good evening.

We were happy with the number of boats that took part, and everyone commented on how they handled the windy conditions which I think has raised their confidence in how to handle the strong winds common at this time of year. Everyone had a quiet night and woke to sunny and mild conditions on Sunday. Most of the boats left before midday with a motor sail back to Pittwater.

A great weekend and to all taking part our thanks for your company.

The Tool Kit tips will be posted separately.

Derek & Cathy, Rendezvous

Boats attending: Masquerade, Taranaki, Hombre, Scallywag, Eternity, Viva la Vita and Rendezvous.