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Day 04 – V07/26, Sydney to Newcastle
Ahoy once more, loyal followers of Voyage 07/26—Day Four has delivered a welcome change of pace, with calm waters, clear skies, and a chance to truly enjoy the magic of life at sea!
We spent a peaceful night at anchor in the stunning surrounds of Salamander Bay in Port Stephens—an absolute gem of a location. Pristine waters, abundant seabirds, and glimpses of marine life set the scene for a restful night, with our youth crew standing anchor watches and keeping the ship safe and secure throughout. A quiet but important responsibility, carried out with professionalism well beyond their years.
As the sun rose over the bay, the upper decks came alive with a spirited game of Ubuntu. Laughter echoed across the water as the crew embraced the new day, refreshed and recharged after a solid night’s rest.
Following breakfast, we weighed anchor and conducted a short relocation to Nelson Bay, positioning the ship to allow our seaboats access ashore near Fly Point. What followed was a well-earned run ashore, with the crew making the most of the beautiful weather—stretching their legs on the sand, reconstituting after the past few days, and continuing to build the bonds that are fast turning this group into a cohesive team.
There’s something about shared time off the ship that deepens connections, and it was clear to see the camaraderie growing stronger with every conversation and shared laugh.
Back onboard, the day rolled seamlessly into evening with one of the voyage’s most anticipated traditions—Dan’s infamous burger bar, served up on the teak deck. Spirits were high, appetites were satisfied, and the crew enjoyed a relaxed meal together as the sun began to dip.
With bellies full and morale soaring, it was time once again to get underway. We weighed anchor, cleared the harbour entrance, and set all fore and aft sails, turning our bows back to the open sea. As night fell, the crew settled into their sea watches, now noticeably more confident and comfortable in the rhythm of life onboard.
From tranquil anchorages to open ocean once more, Day Four has showcased both the beauty of our coastline and the growing strength of this remarkable crew. Port Stephens, you’ve put on a spectacular show—thank you for having us. We’ll be back.
Fair winds and following seas as Voyage 07/26 continues—this team is hitting its stride.
Captain Leups Out +
Latitude/Longitude:
Conditions:
Sunny, Winds NE at 10kn and Seas to 1m from the East
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Ahoy once more, loyal followers of Voyage 07/26—Day Three has been and gone, and the sea has well and truly made its presence known!
Overnight, our youth crew experienced their first true test of life at sea, as a long, rolling southern swell reminded everyone that Neptune always gets a vote. There were certainly a few “green gills” making an appearance as the dreaded mal de mer took hold—but what followed was nothing short of impressive.
Despite the challenging conditions, the crew showed real grit and determination. Rather than staying below, they dug deep, rallied together, and made their way up on deck to take their places at tacking stations throughout the day. It’s no small feat pushing through seasickness, and the way this group responded did not go unnoticed—your staffies were thoroughly impressed.
As the day progressed, something special began to take shape. The shared challenge of the swell, the teamwork required on deck, and the willingness to support one another all contributed to a growing sense that this is no longer just a group of individuals—but a crew being forged by the sea itself.
By late afternoon, the seas eased their grip just enough to reward our efforts. We sailed into the calm embrace of Salamander Bay in Port Stephens, dropping anchor in a picture-perfect setting as the sun dipped below the horizon in a spectacular display. A well-earned moment to pause, reflect, and take in just how far the crew has already come in such a short time.
The evening brought another highlight—“three way chats”—giving everyone the chance to connect with shipmates outside their watches. Stories were shared, laughs were had, and new friendships continued to form across the deck.
From green gills to growing confidence, Day Three has been a powerful reminder of what this voyage is all about: resilience, camaraderie, and stepping up when it counts.
Fair winds and following seas as we head into Day Four—this crew is only just getting started.
Captain Leups Out +
