Hi All,
First time poster here and thanks in advance for any help.
If we were to buy a boat in Bundaberg (around 40 ft) is there anyone interested in helping us getting it down to Mooloolaba in September?
We are relatively new to sailing but we own our own smaller boat and know that the Sandy Straits need experience to sail safely.
I am thinking it will take 3 days with 2 nights at anchor/marina does that sound about right? I take it you would never go over the top of Fraser and down it's east side?
thanks guys
Are you leaving from Bundaberg, or the river mouth? 3 days 2 nights might be a bit optimistic if just travelling during the day. But if you got lucky, Burnett River mouth - Hervey Bay - Pelican Bay (Inskip Point) - Mooloolaba.
September is still probably a bit early to be able to catch a northerly, so you will most likely be motoring into a Sou Easter for most of the trip. I'd allow 5 days, if you do it inside that, then that's great.
Many factors to consider:
Winds, Tides, your vessels draft and so on.
The main issues around the Great Sandy Straits are riding the incoming tide down to the halfway point at Ungowan, then ride the outgoing tide to Pelican Bay. This should ensure you have enough depth. I've done it a few times with a draft of 2.1m, no problems.
Then of course, Wide Bay Bar will be fun for you the first time.
Don't be too scared, whilst we need to be cautious, don't let anxiety take over - Enjoy the adventure!
If you pay for my airfares from WA, I'll give you a hand!
Hi Cockpit,
I wouldn't recommend going outside for your first trip, ie: around the top of Fraser. You're more exposed to the elements and there is no bolt hole to hide in if the weather gets nasty. The inside is much more chilled and protected, you have anchorages aplenty, rescue services are readily on hand and its a beautiful area.
Make sure you have spare time in your planning. I've been hammered by Southerly's from Wide Bay Bar to Mooloolaba on a push through delivery, and we were pretty exhausted by the time we got there. The bottom of the Sandy Straits inside the bar is a great place to park up and wait for a good weather window, so lots of reasons to take the inside path until you know the boat really well.
Cheers,
SB
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the replies so far. Yes I understand about staying inside the Straits but thought I would ask to make sure.
I think the draft will be 1.9m by the way.
I should also have mentioned I am happy to provide food and payment for the trip..? 
Will be leaving from the Marina at Bundy also but it seems I should allow more like 4 or 5 days...?
Thanks again
3 days 2 nights is ok provided weather and tides all line up. We actually do it in 2 days 1 night ( overnight at Gary's) to Brisbane, but we sail or motor at about 8 knots.
I'm away untill 21st of September after then i should be able to help you lve done that trip a few times
Depending on the when bit, you may find us heading in the same direction at the same time, although we need to then continue on to Brisbane.
Thanks for replies, we are not proceeding at this time but maybe in the future.
cheers
