October 2019...

Delivering a yacht across the Tasman always has some days when the weather is somewhat interesting. Not to disappoint, days 5 to 7 were 35-50kts with seas reaching 5 mtrs but Johanna II handled the conditions exceptionally well. What I found most impressive with was the ability of the auto pilot to maintain course in those conditions with a 3/4 sea trying its hardest to round us up and then slew us back into a potential gybe. Not once did the auto-pilot 'loose it'. Johanna II was extremely well prepared by Cameron and Suzanne and as a result, we had zero issues and managed to deliver her without a single breakage or repair needed.

Added to the requirement to get across the Tasman safely was getting a reasonable weather window to get from Brighton YC in Melbourne to Eden (which is where we cleared customs) especially as we had the beaming new owners on board. Fortunately the weather gods were with us and we had a great sail across and after a day in Eden was able to venture on.

Because Auckland was without customs facilities at that time, we stopped into Opua to clear and that suited Suzanne and Cameron's timetable to jump on for the final day down to Auckland. Again perfect weather to enjoy that magnificent part of the New Zealand coast.

It was an absolute pleasure meeting Suz and Cam and sailing with them. I wish them all the best for many enjoyable times as I know they are already having on Johanna II.

Thank you also to Murray who as always was superb in his efforts as 1st Mate and provided excellent suggestions along the way to help make the passage safe and enjoyable.