Noon position: 37 57.7 S 144 48.1 E
Course: ESE Speed: 3.5 knots
Wind: S, F3 – gentle breeze
Sea: slight Swell: nil
Weather: sunny
Day’s run: 10 nm

I was hoping to remain in Port Phillip for the weekend in order to make another attempt at a family sail this Sunday, but once again the weather looks unfavourable for a pleasure sail. On the other hand, we have a short window of favourable weather for getting out of Port Phillip today and tomorrow before the wind once more comes in fresh from the West. While it is normal for the weather to be somewhat capricious at this time of year in these latitudes, adding to our current challenges are the impacts of climate change. The Bureau has been reporting for some time now that the temperature of the air mass over Antarctica is some 30 degrees above normal. This in turn is weakening the vortex which keeps the cold air contained over the Antarctic and is allowing waves of cool air to migrate further North than usual, and bringing with it cold Westerly winds which are making it more difficult to make our way West than would be normal, not to mention making it more difficult to plan a pleasant sail on Port Phillip for family and friends.

But, as mentioned, for now it is a very pleasant day. The sun is shining and we have a gentle breeze out of the South – a headwind making for slow progress in the desired direction but nonetheless a pleasant sail.

I am hoping to make it to the Heads in time for slack water at 2215, then to sail overnight to make for Apollo Bay. I am tempted to continue on towards Portland to make the best use of the wind while it remains fair, but it will be turning against us late tomorrow afternoon and freshening well before we can get to Portland. The question is how long would we need to bash to windward for and would it be worth the discomfort for the extra few miles. My current assessment is that the answer is no, so most likely I will settle for Apollo Bay and then wait for another favourable weather pattern. At least in Apollo Bay we will be that much closer to Cape Otway where we will be in a good position to make the most of a fair wind when it does arrive.

I have enjoyed my time in Melbourne catching up with family. My thanks to my brother Mark for his as usual generous hospitality and my apologies to Issy, my niece, for not being able to take her for a sail. Hopefully, next time.

All is well.