July 31, 2014
We are almost in Broome… The anticipation of arrival is overwhelming because very shortly thereafter, we will be going to our favourite place on the planet!
At midnight, the air temperature for the weather report was 25.40 C! This is promising and simply wonderful! On deck, the warm air enveloped me in a light breeze. A little phosphorescence swirled off the bow and stars sparkled in the calming sea. I tried to capture it on my video but to no avail… just enjoy it!
Cable Beach, WA. No more to say…
After a deep sleep I awoke well refreshed and pleased with the calmness of the day. As the day continued, the north-easterly wind eased and pretty soon on my midday watch we were seeing pods of two and three humpback whales just lying around in the calm, turquoise water just to the south of Broome. Why wouldn’t you come to paradise to find friends and give birth to your precious calf?
By 1400 the red rocks and pindan of Gantheaume Point were clearly visible straight ahead and the wide, white arc of Cable Beach stretching 20-odd kilometres to the north, beckoned. We are here! The boys anchored our good ship Whale Song in the aqua water of the anchorage and all was calm and very, very good!
Both Curt and I sorted out a flurry of emails as we came back into regular internet range and as the sun began sinking I started preparing dinner. Moroccan pork with leeks and sundried tomatoes with paprika couscous was on the menu from me while Curt, Dale and Resty used the new crane to launch Orca, our tender. With several successful launches, it was time to enjoy the sunset and relax into Broome-time! ‘Welcome back to Broome!’ Curt toasted as we clinked beers and celebratory G and T’s at Cable Beach! It is wonderful to be here.
And then the blues turned to gold…
Checking through many photos taken today, I selected many as representative of the day. As I scan through the photos in the file, the colours are punchy and leap from the computer screen. The Kimberley is a sight for sore eyes. It will knock your senses for a six! The pallet includes bright sky-blue, crisp white, blood red, glowing tangerine, luminous aqua water with lush rainforest green thrown in to boot. My eyes must become accustomed to the intense hues. I shall try and I shall try very hard – I promise myself. A task I shall relish.
Looking forward to travelling towards the Buccaneer Archipelago and beyond,
Mich
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