Marble, Hunter and Curlew Islands

As usual it was lumpy heading out of Island Head Creek, but we soon cruised north again on the genoa, although a few storms threatened, but mostly just wind bullets, no rain.  Marble Island seemed an easy tack and is referred in Noel Patrick’s Curtis Coast book as a good anchorage in SE winds.  We found it too rolly so moved around to Hunter Island, which was blissfully smooth and quiet.  These Duke Islands were all bought by a pastoral company to run cattle and now look overgrazed, so there is little other wildlife and visitors are not encouraged ashore.

At first light, with the lucky gold bomber lure out, we set sail for Curlew Island, but the mackerel were not interested today.  

We know why it’s called Curlew Island, as the Bush Stone-Curlews begin their harmonies just before dawn, and they are loud across the water from their beach roosts. 

So far we have this island to ourselves, no other boats about, just bliss!

By the way, how did these Easter Island figures get to Curlew Island???