Whitsundays Island

We left the beef capital of Australia and headed for the Whitsunday Island. We had a big couple of days coming up as we were boarding a sailing ship to tour around the Islands. However, this wasn’t just any sailboat, it was the ‘Condor’, which is an 80-foot ocean racing ship (Its been retired and outfitted for commercial overnight trips). The Condor is the only sailboat in the world to have won ever major ocean race at least twice.

(The Condor ripping across the ocean. You can see people hanging over the one side to stabilize the boat, and prevent it from tipping over)

We boarded the boat and got our beer coolers filled to the top. We then headed for a two hour sail out of Airlie Beach towards the Whitsunday Island. This first trip was a test to everyone’s sea legs. The swells weren’t too big, but it was really choppy, which resulted in a very bumpy ride. The rain was coming down and the waves were crashing over the side of the boat, leaving everyone soaked to the bone. The sun had set, so it seemed like we were heading out into a big unknown. A few people were pretty sick, but everyone was able to keep it inside. Overall, this was a wild ride, and a good introduction to big boat sailing.

Once we reached a sheltered bay, we were treated to a feast. That night we stayed up playing all kinds of different games (what else do you do on an 80 foot boat?). Games included the 'Game of Life', but you have to go to the Whitsunday's to find out what this game is.

The next morning everyone was awake by 7:00am. I tired to get as much sleep as possible, and lasted until 7:30, but all the talking and the motor prevented any decent beauty sleep. Cracked the first beer of the day at 7:46am.

(Breakfast of… champions?)

We set sail on the open ocean, heading for Whitehaven Beach. This next sailing leg was full on. The winds were ripping, and we got to see this ex-racing boat in action. Its capable of going on a 45 degree angle when full tilt. It was probably one of the highlights of Australia for me. Ripping acorss the open ocean, with the tunes blarring over the speaker system. In addition to being a passenger, everyone needed to help out with the sailing, which included getting on the grinders to raise the sails.

(On the grinders and setting up the sails)

(Crazy angle. You can see one of the staff, Luke, at the bottom, hanging on for life as he fixed a snag)

We arrived at Whitehaven Beach, which is considered in the top 10 beaches in the world (how do you get the job of deciding the top 10 beaches in the world?). We went for a swim in the surf (where I nearly destroyed my eyes dude to salt water), and played a game of modified cricket on the beach. Most people walked away from this beach session with good memories and BIG sunburns.

(Whitehaven Beach... soo good!)

(This isn't Whitehaven beach, but this is just across from it)

(Me posing in a singsuit. To go swimming in the Great Barrier Reef, one must wear a stingersuit incase Jelly fish are present. Not something to take lightly!)

(Hanging out on the beach)

(Heading out into the Surf)

(Playing some cricket. Good farmer's tan too.)

That afternoon we sailed to a good coral spot (we were in the Great Barrier Reef) to do some snorkelling. It was amazing, seeing all the colourful fish (including the famous ‘Finding Nemo’ clown fish).

(Hanging out on the deck for an easier ride in the afternoon)

(More Hanging out on the Deck)

(Our snorkel talk... "Don't Touch the Reef!")

(Heading out into the Great Barrier Reef!)

(Mitch and I, enjoying the Reef!)

(Lots of Fish. At one, we were feeding them, and there was probably 3 times this amont of fish. It was kinda scary as they swam inches from your face)

That night we were treated to an awesome sunset, another feast, and lots more games.

The last day on the boat including some more snorkelling in the reef, and sailing to Long Island Resort where we would spend the last night.

(Mitch enjoying a big bourbon and coke)

(Sailing in the last day. Pretty calm compared to the previous morning)

LONG ISLAND RESORT
Once we reached Long Island Resort, we all headed for a shower to get all the salt water, sun tan lotion, sand, and sweat off our bodies (there was no showers on the boat). We spent the rest of the day and night hanging around the pool enjoying the extensive list of cocktails, including Long Island Ice Teas needless to say.

(Enjoying lots of fruity drinks)