Saturday, December 3, 2022

We anchored several miles off Airlie Beach in the Whitsunday Islands around 8am, and by 8:45 we were in a tender, headed for shore. I had booked a catamaran sail with snorkeling and lunch. Our catamaran held around 80 guests, and we enjoyed sitting out in the bow on the outbound sail to a sandbar near Hayman Island. I decided that there were many reasons why I didn’t want to join the herd who were ferried ashore to snorkel off the beach. I had my book, I was very happy reading my book, it was quite rough so snorkeling conditions would not be that great, and so on.

Everyone donned their stinger suit. Think stretchy blue nylon (probably) fabric that protects you from the deadly box jellyfish! Another reason to read my book and stay out of the water.

Jim went to shore with the rest of them while I read and watched the cook make chicken, burgers, and sausage on the barbie.
The wind was considerably stronger and the whitecaps were bigger for our return sail back to the Airlie Beach terminal. I started out on the bow, but the minute they put the main sail up, we took off like a rocket. I ran for cover inside. I did not want to get my book wet. It was an exhilarating ride back! We were zooming and everyone enjoyed the ride. At dinner we heard that those on the motor catamaran were hurling their guts out on their return journey. Which proves that sailboats are always better!
Nothing more refreshing than a swim in the infinity pool on the stern of our ship before dinner!

The chef at the World cafe (casual dining, self serve) knocked the ball out of the park with dinner. They had a huge selection of cheeses, breads, and crackers, adorned with beautifully carved watermelons. There were so many choices for the main event: roast turkey, lamb chops, various types of fried seafood, moussaka, and so on. Delicious! It was nice to have an appetite again.