Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race

We are still in becalmed waters in Darwin.  Yesterday we went to Stokes Hill Wharf to watch the start of the Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race.  We were curious to see whether they would even get over the start line in these calm conditions.

The entrants floated serenely on the almost mirror like water, waiting for the start of the race.


 It mightn't be too good for sailing but it was great for photography.





 Lucky they timed the start of the race with the change of the tide, so they were able to drift in the right direction.


The specialized race yachts were able to use the 3 knot wind and were away.









Leaving the others to
struggle across the start line.









Today we decided to leave the marina to anchor outside the lock, ready to take advantage of any slight air movement to help us on our way to the Kimberleys.  

Entering the lock from the marina.












This time we knew what to do!




The windmeter hit 6kn a while ago so at the moment we are thinking will we or won't we.  

We'll see what happens at the turn of the tide :)