Australia - The Land Down Under
In total we spent Covid hanging in Australia
Cairns: Twice we were here. Once by train touring around, checking out the place and the second time by boat. Go by train. While there is a lot of yachting activity the city fathers show no favor to yachts. Much the opposite. In Australia our yacht insurance met the country standards. Not in Cairns! The marina wanted more than the policy covered and we were not allowed into the marina without the extra coverage. Since were only staying for a week or so it was not worth the struggle to accomodate this place.
Day Trips: Stuck here during Covid there were random opportunities that opened up. Some of them we took advantage of and played tourist for a day, weekend or week.
Fraser Island: One of our first yachting stops once cleared into Australia. This island brags that they ware the largest sand island in the world. A four wheel drive around confirmed it is.... rather large. Resorts, restaurants, parks and airplanes landing on the beach were a few of the highlights.
Great Barrier Reef: Having traveled through the Caribbean and Pacific, for us we thought the GBR was rather MEH. If that is where one can cruise too it is great. But the world has so many other places with crystal clear water, and living reefs this place really dissappointed us. We had some adventures, a few mis-steps and met a slew of people. That is what cruising is. I just would not put the Great Barrier Reef on my bucket list.
Sydney: When Covid eased a bit we were able to head down to Sydney; by car. Taking the boat would have been nice. Cruising this coast is not the most comfortable. We spent some time exploring what we could of this outrageous international city.
Uluru: Australia is so big and there is so much to see. But the big rock came more into focus as we airline tickets that were canceled during Covid and a voucher. We needed to use them. Where to go? With friends we choose the big rock in the middle of the country.