Crew: Jenny, Isabelle, Max, Graciela, Geoff.
Forecast: Variable 5 kts.
Bill mentioned on the EBYMBC Adventure group that he and Helen were taking their grandchildren out on their yacht Tamerlane to Matiu / Somes Island. The forecast looked great for a family cruise so we decided to join them.
We cast Halo off from Chaffers at 1100 hrs with almost nil wind. Isabelle did a great job on helm. Keeping clear of the incoming Bluebridge ferry, we motored gently towards Somes. Max put the fishing line out to see if we could pick up a kahawhai with the spinner.
We rounded Mokopuna Island (formerly known as Leper Island) and saw that Tamerlane was already tied up at the club mooring. We rafted up with them at 1200 hrs.
After lunch (thanks Graciela for the yummy quiche) we inflated the dinghy and ferried everybody over to the island.
I was most impressed with the new wharf which now has a landing area for small craft and and space to safely park the dinghy. No more wet landings on the beach!
We had a nice walk up to the visitor centre and then over to the lighthouse which is still operational, guiding ships into Wellington Harbour at night. We enjoyed stunning views of the harbour and then hiked round the coastal track back to the wharf.
Grandpa then ferried the family back to the boat. Isabelle and Max had fun playing with the kids on Tamerlane; Cameron, Jack and Hunter.
At 1514 hrs we cast off and circumnavigated the island to head back across the harbour. Jenny expertly helmed Halo home.
We were back in our berth at Chaffers Marina by 1600 hrs. A marvellous outing enjoyed by all. Thanks Bill for the motivation to get out on a nice winter’s day.
Halo Log Book 