Port Douglas

On Sunday morning we had a team meeting wit hour sailing Buddies to discuss the weather pattern that was coming and there was a decision made to postpone going any further north for now until later in the year when weather conditions were more predictable.  We spent the day at Low Isles catching up on a few chores that needed addressing, before heading to Port Douglas on Monday morning for a few days until the strong winds settled down.  We could then make a decision as to where we would like to visit next.

Once we were all tied up in the marina it was time to explore Port Douglas.  The place was busy with holiday makers enjoying the winter sunshine and is certainly a vibrant place to spend time.  We had a great meal at the local yacht club that was packed and were lucky to get a table.

On Tuesday hired a car and travelled the inland road to Cooktown, what an interesting place to visit.  There is so much history, from Captain Cook spending 10 days to repair his boat to the gold rush.  We drove up to Grassy Hill to look over the town, the Endeavour River and the Coral Sea.  The wind was howling which I believe is normal for the area and the reason we did the trip here by car.

On Wednesday we drove to Cape Tribulation and what a spectacular drive it is.  Once you reach the Daintree River crossing it is by car ferry and then a drive through thick Rainforest to the top at Cape Tribulation and onto the beach.  The walk through the Daintree Rainforest is worthwhile and so diverse.  Of course on the way back it is mandatory to stop at the Daintree Fruit Ice Cream Shop where you are served exotic ice creams made with the tropical fruits grown on the property, heaven to Steve.

Thursday was time to go for a long walk and explore Port Douglas, walking along 4 mile beach and then lunch and some shopping in the very vibrant tourist town with many boutique clothing chops and restaurants.