Position: 36 47.09 S 174 53.84 E
At anchor Islington Bay
Wind: ENE F3-4 gentle to moderate breeze
Sea state: wavelets Swell: nil
Weather: overcast, drizzle and rain
Day’s run: 20 nm

The day started overcast but clear of any rain; however, with rain expected later in the day and forecast for the next several days, I thought it would be a good idea to make a move while the weather was relatively fair.

At 0920, I had Sylph squared away, the mainsail up and the anchor home. We bore away once more to the south. With the wind off our port beam, I set the jib for a broad reach towards Rangitoto Island, ten miles away. After an hour of sailing some light drizzle started to fall. By the time we were working our way along Rangitoto Channel on the island’s western side we were experiencing heavy rain, at times reducing visibility to less than a hundred meters.

Once we had cleared Rangitoto Channel we started making our way along the volcano’s southern shore, tacking against what was now a headwind. As we were on our final approach to the entrance to Islington Bay we encountered another heavy downpour which, once passed, left us wallowing, becalmed as so often happens with rain squalls. With only a mile to go and not particularly enjoying drifting around in the wet weather, I flashed up the BRM, furled the jib and motored the rest of the way to our anchorage.

At precisely 1300, I let go the anchor in 4.5 meters of water.

Islington Bay looks a great spot to shelter for a few days. There were two motorboats here when we arrived, but they have since left and we have the bay to ourselves. There are no facilities here apart for a small wharf and a boat ramp. A hike I am sure would be of interest but unless the weather turns out better than forecast I expect to be boat-bound for the next few days. Also. we will need to top up with fresh supplies soon. My current thinking is to head over to Waiheke Island, less than five miles to our east, where there are some sizeable towns with shops. Perhaps tomorrow if it isn’t raining too heavily.

All is well.

Rangitoto Island in the distance:

Getting closer to Auckland: 

Kiwi Patrol Boat:

Tower at entrance to Rangitoto Channel with some nasty rocks behind:

Shoreline Islington Bay: