Mon-Wed, February 5-7, 2018, Cruising the Tasman Sea

Just as many Americans and Europeans refer to a trans-Atlantic journey as "hopping the pond," Kiwis and Aussies refer to the Tasman Sea voyage between their countries as "crossing the ditch."  The Tasman was named for Dutchman Abel Janszoon Tasman, the first European to set foot on New Zealand and the island of Tasmania in the 1640s.  Sailing to trade spices for the Dutch East India Company, he was also in search of "Beach," a fabled land recorded by Marco Polo to overflow with gold.  Later, British explorer James Cook sailed these waters, famously passing the entrance to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most breathtaking inlets, believing it too narrow to lead anywhere.

Diane and Larry have become acquainted with a neat couple from Tampa, Florida.  He is retired US Coast Guard.  He suggested to us several weeks ago that the Tasman Sea could be a little rough crossing.  Well, all he suggested is far too true.  Monday the winds were in the 60-80 MPH so the sea swells were running 15-20 feet.  Larry spent most of the day in our stateroom (watched Super Bowl from bed), not sick enough to chuck, thanks to meclizine.  But he was uncomfortable enough to not want to fight walking in a rolling, churning cruise ship nor eat food.

Fortunately Tuesday was calmer and Larry was up and out, attending Guest Lectures and meals.  Wednesday we experienced even calmer winds resulting in more favorable travels.  The straight between the islands of Tasmania and Australia were also be pretty rough.  However the winds were lighter so the swell were also.

Lighthouse and wind generators are on the Tasmanian Island.  We saw them as we passed by.

Islands north-east of Tasmania.  We passed between this island group and Tasmania.