Departed Yorkeys Knob

Our first day at sea has been very pleasant. We departed Yorkeys Knob at 0600 this morning. We started with a lovely 10-12 knot southerly which went around to the south east during the afternoon.

As of 1830 tonight we are sailing 40 apparent, on course and averaging 7.5 knots. The sea conditions are good and many birds are following.

Salacia's current position is 16 07S, 147 08E. We 425 nautical miles from Duchateau, our first destination.

We have had some problems with our HF radio which is very disappointing as we have always had 100% performance in the past. Sat phone is our substitution for staying in contact with the fleet.

Stephen and Ross discussing navigation to leave Yorkeys Knob at dawn yesterday. As the channel is very shallow so we needed to leave just after high tide with 5 other yachts. The rest left mid morning.