A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for- John A Shedd
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| Into SE from Kupang?? |
Heading into the Timor Sea after clearing from Kupang, it was painfully obvious this was not going to be a ideal run to Darwin. The last leg from Indonesia to Australia is always a nightmare to be endured rather than enjoyed! The only angle of sail had Tientos heading for Ashmore Reef, so a decision was made to run along the Timor North Coast, and head to Darwin from the East side of Timor-Leste.
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| A verdant coastline with lots of anchorages |
Timor-Leste consists of half of the island of Timor, Atuaro Island, Jaco Island and the enclave of Oe-Cussi set within the Indonesian part of West Timor.
The coastline along this island is magnificent and is ringed by coral reefs teeming with marine life.
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| Whales and dolphins abound |
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| Bill and Andrew enjoy the calm coast |
Fuel was an issue so clearing into Dili, the capital, was a necessity, to take on 550 litres. The anchorage, in 20m, was rolly and refueling at the pontoon caused damage to the rubbing strake. The hull and prop were cleaned in optimistic anticipation of a good run.
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| A very busy port |
Leaving Dili Harbour you sail under the iconic 27m high Cristo Rei de Dili statue.
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| A mini Rio at Dili |
From Dili to Darwin was 6 days of relentless swell, wind on the nose, storms, engine cutouts (dirty fuel) and sheer exasperation! Finally clearing at Cullen Bay on 6th May, the crew departed and Tientos returned to Tipperary Waters Marina.
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| 6 countries later back in Australia |
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May all your bars be wooden and well-stocked!
