Day 11, Sunday 5/1/2014, Hobart to Bruny Island

I haven't slept that well in about 2 years. I woke up with a numb left arm. We caught the 1100hr ferry from Kettering. Managed to park our cars in the ferry line by 1020hrs and then walked around the pier and coffee shop for a bit. Wandered back to the cars while the ferry was unloading and we were directed straight on. Leah wasn't back when Gary had to drive on, so she jumped in Jordan's car just as Jordan was driving on. Gary got out on the ferry and looked so stressed that he'd left her behind, pacing back and forth at the rail. I had to call out to him that she was OK and had gotten a ride from Jordy. It's only about a 10 minute ride and you just stay in your car.

Our first stop on Bruny was at the Bush Smoke House. Col and I bought some more hot smoked salmon, Moroccan spiced peach chutney, salmon tarine (cream cheese, salmon and herbs) and salted sardines (eew).

Bruny is huge. Bigger than we thought. We have a bush camp on private property, in a protected bay. It's right down the south end with an opening into a lagoon nearby. Perfect for kayaking.
As soon as we set up camp and had lunch, the rain set in. Maybe kayaking tomorrow?

Got the table and chairs out, grabbed a cherry cider and chips and played Euka with Jordan, Jack and Jess. Jess and I flogged Jordan and Jack. They were so funny they had me cry-laughing!
We had some lovely neighbours plus Phil the owner rides down on his bike often to chat and check on us. Says he's our butler and often delivers firewood. I think he sends down his dogs as an excuse to come and chat.

At 5pm it was still cloudy but suddenly no wind and the water looked emerald. A sudden decision to go kayaking made my day!

Wow, it was unreal! First was a small wave entry with the kayaks cutting through beautifully. We headed south to the mouth of the bay. It was crystal clear water with giant kelp and gradually growing cliffs with organ pipes. Once we stopped paddling we noticed there was a wind taking us out, quite fast. Around the first bend to the right was when we noticed the slow but large swell. There were little rock islands and towers. One more bay around was amazing emerald water surrounded by steep cliffs and a water cave. Magical!

Even paddling back against the wind wasn't too bad. We're pretty impressed with our Seaward kayaks, cutting through the swell and chop easily. Fiona and I headed back in while Col and Bruce went to play in the current and waves of the lagoon opening. I caught a wave in, it spun me sideways and tried to roll me but I managed to stay upright.
I took lots of photos using my iPhone inside a Hitcase Pro.

I was so glad the neighbours kept the fire stoked all day even during the rain. We had a lovely evening around the fire. A real campfire and no rain with lovely local ciders and wine.

The stars even showed themselves as the clouds dispersed and there was lots of discussion as to whether we'd see the Aurora Australis. I'm to be woken at any hour of the night if it is spotted by anyone!