We had a very pleasant trip from Clarke Is to the Tamar River. Several Barrocouta were caught and thrown back, as they have worms in them, but there were plenty of other boats that kept and ate them. The following breeze allowed us to take photos of other vessels on the cruise, especially Maamalmi a Custom Avatar 52 with a MPS flying. They were very appreciative! We were rounding Low Head, the lighthouse at the entrance of the Tamar as the tide was running in and we gained 4+ knts, with the sun setting we continued 20nm upstream, under the Batman bridge to a very nice bay where we dropped anchor for the night. As the rising tide is necessary to go further upstream, we set the alarm at 5.15AM!!!! But this paid off as the scenery going upstream with the sun rising was Simply Stunning! Heritage homes with beautiful wrought iron lace work, all restored as well as vineyards and closer to Launceston there were loads of new housing developments along the river. Once alongside the Tamar River Cruise wharf we washed, scrubbed and cleaned the boat from top to bottom. Thanks to Alans brother in law who ran him around on Friday to find our parcel of carpet that was couried from Sydney, we now have warm, cosy carpet under our feet! More shopping and more visitors filled our days until we ventured back downstream to our secluded Spring Bay for another peaceful night. After leaving the bay we came across a large seal laying on it’s back sunning itself with flippers in the air. The 40nm trip upriver was worth while. Sunday night was another fleet dinner at Tamar Yacht Club, Beauty Point. Salmon and Steak accompanied by salad was served by the hard working volunteers eager to fundraise for the Junior sailors. Another opportunity to chat to the rest of the participants. We left the Tamar at lunch time and headed WSWfor Devonport, only 3hrs with 10knts wind on our tail, saw us entering the Mersey River and we were directed by the Port Control to the wharf on the western bank of the river where we rafted to Skie and then Westwind rafted to us. Tonight we should have a quiet night!
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