Across the Top of Australia

[bvimatelot]

Cheers, Phil. Its raining and cold on the Sunshine coast but I saw my first non-zoo Kangaroos to-day so that's alright....

We did the Torres Straits at night in a Force 8 on the nose...bloody 'orrible!! But - the passages are extremely well lit and really, not a problem. Choose the right hole in the Great Barrier Reef to go through (don't make a new one - the Aussies get a bit annoyed!).

Don't forget to email the Aussie Customs and Border Protection people at least 96 hrs before arrival - the format is all on their web-site and you'll get a quick and very matey reply from them. Expect to be overflown by their border protection light aircraft who will know all about you but will call you up on 16 to confirm the details.

Have you got all your ducks in a row for American Samoa? Its just like USVI or any US territory in that you can't go in there on a private boat or aeroplane without a visa for all crew (unless they are US Citizens). In the same way that most people prefer BVI to USVI, I've heard that Samoa (ex Brit territory) is much nicer but, of course, not nearly so cheap!

I've got a cat to take from Florida to Trini next week - Atlantic looks clear of storms at the moment so should be ok.

Have a good 'un, Tony

[bvimatelot]

Originally Posted by pdbms

what part of brisbane are you in?

Hi Kevin - I picked this up too late, I'm afraid and have now flown home to BVI. I didn't get nearly enough time to explore QLD, let alone Brisbane which is a huge shame. So I'm actively looking for Aussie deliveries so I can get back there!!

all the best, Tony

[The Seafarer]

Hi Tony ,
I have Been following you along and am so glad to hear you and the cat made it to Brisbane. May not have been the best first sail for me to be on, but I was sure bummed I missed your Skype message back in February. Maybe I will find you needing crew over a summer. Peaceful sailing
Christy