She was refurbished several months ago by Matt, our skipper and Jayson, our decky, chef, sail trimmer, entertainer at a cost of several thousand $. This was only her 6th trip since that work.
Enid's capacity was 18 people but we were fortunate to only have 7 creating much more space on board. It was touch and go whether the trip would go ahead with such a small number but again we were fortunate to sail. Accompanying us was Andy, from Switzerland, his first time at sea, Melanie and Sophie from France, Marielle also from France, and Anthony, a chef from Cairns.
It was an amazing experience to board Enid after the booking, checking in and planning back home and the sight of her tall sails and timber deck brought back memories of Grandad's boat when I was younger. It felt natural to be on board a wooden boat and we were both excited to set off albeit under power due to the lack of wind.
The lack of people on board made for large deck areas for sunbathing and relaxing and of course the occasional (!!!) photo. After a little while we got into the Islands discovered by Captain James Cook in the late 1700s. Guess when they were discovered! 10 points to the first comment with the right answer :)
The boat had everything you could want. A cool covered cabin or saloon, deck space, galley, toilets and cabins but also an impressive selection of snorkelling gear including a clear bottom kayak. Unfortunately we enjoyed the snorkelling so much we didn't get a chance to use the kayak but am told it was a good experience. The number of different species of fish in a small area was incredible but with the clarity of the water it wasn't suprising.
The colours around us were simply amazing. Blue azore waters and bright skies, deep browns in the timber, greys, browns and greens on the islands and a big red sail. A photographer's dream! It was surreal to actually be sailing on the Whitsundays and for the first afternoon was like being in a hazy dream. Talk of pirate ships, parrots and walking the plank was continuous and with other tours were lucky to have a good small group.
Enid's traditional design threw many interesting things at us to see and experience. The tender being towed along behind, the sails and lines, capstans, the kayak, the internal layout (photos not included...whoops!). As soon as the light faded, the sun sank into the sea creating stunning sunsets.
Our first nights berth was in a secluded bay and accompanied by about three other boats, one a massive timber yacht with three masts was a relic of the early 1900s. The other boat was a party boat that kept cutting across our view of the sunset and booming out music until late in the evening. It did have its benefit though as our ipod battery ran out..phew!
The first night afloat was spent under the stars sleeping top tail with Amber in the saloon. It was a strange experience rocking backwards and forwards side to side looking up at the stars. Out here they appeared brighter and in greater numbers that anywhere else I'd been and made it possible to see shooting stars quite frequently.
As the weather was so calm, being on a traditional sailing ship was frustrating for everyone including our two crew Matt and Jayson. When Enid's sail were up the atmosphere became very exhilarating as we had to mind our heads on the boom, the incoming sea and the increased speed that came on. Smiles were aplenty when the sails came down and as there was only Jayson gave an opportunity to help out. It was very much a hands on approach to sailing and helping out where possible.
A random photo of some nice looking fenders...
I've just realised these photos aren't in order but hope they give a flavour of our trip. Here we are at Whitehaven Beach, or at least looking down on the beach from Tongue Point. It was a brilliant feeling to be here looking at a view that we'd been dreaming out for many years prior. Just goes to show that anything is possible!
The Enid gang minus the skipper..
One of Jayson's incredible lunches. Whilst we were on board the food was amazing; salads, cold meats, cheeses, new potatoes, thai beef curry, vegetable broth...yummy :)
Evening socialising in the saloon
The Enid gang looking bleary eyed at sunrise off Whitehaven Beach
Our snorkelling adventures each day allowed us some time to just explore the little bay we were in. Some of the times Jayson would come and pick us up or alternatively we could attempt the swim back to the boat. I decided several times to swim back and run up a sweat (is that possible when you're swimming?). Sometimes however it was a bit further that expected hence the knackered look on my face.
On our way home we stopped at Dumbell Island for lunch and snorkel and were told that a sea eagle nest was on the island. All of a sudden Jayson is whistling them in and offering some cold meat. The sea eagle swooped down and caught the meats no more than 10m in front of us. Whilst lunch was being prepared Marielle managed to get them down again ;)
The trip offered us dolpins, turtles and a whale and calf whilst around the islands to the shrieks of joy from all of us on board. Manta rays were seen from the lookout at Whitehaven Beach and big Giant Trevally (GT) fish splashed around the boat in the evening hunting.
The boys enjoyed themselves too having a go steering the boat. You may see some RNLI bits and pieces behind them but you'll have to wait for more on this :)
The way home saw the wind pick up and the hoods come down on the crew and passengers as Enid showed us her true colours, those of a racing yacht. The photo doesn't show the real extent of the angles we were to the sea but it was awe-inspiring. Smiles came out bigger than ever and the fact the clouds came in didn't dampen anyones spirits. At one point we were faster than a boat with engines!!
It was a surreal experience to sail on the Whitsundays and I'd like to thank Matt and Jayson for their hospitality and kindness whilst we were on board. Everyone had a great time that will remain in our thoughts for a very long time. It was the best few days of the trip so far and worth every penny.
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