Today when planning our route on the GPS an alternative suggestion to Arthur River was the “Edge of the World”, and I can understand why ! Classic car owners always get a bit nervous when driving far away from services, and today would have been a difficult call to the RAC if anybody had broken down…….”You are where…..!” An hours drive from Smithton saw the convoy arrive in drizzle, where the red boat and her crew of 3 waited for us.

The red boat…

The first hours cruise saw us progress from the coastal scrub to wet sclerophyll forest and our first encounter with a white breasted Sea Eagle. They have come to expect a free fish from the boat and swoop down when given one.

White Breasted Sea Eagle

Further cruising saw us enter the rainforest proper as the channel narrowed and vegetation thickened. Boris, one of our guides, entertained us with stories about some of the pasts colourful locals, local flora and fauna.

Brown stringy bark gums
Sea Eagle nest, approx 2 meters wide !
Tree Ferns

After 2 hours cruising we made landfall at Turks Landing, basically the skipper nosed into the bank and tied up. Time for a drink before a walk, then a BBQ lunch.

Bush bar

Boris took us for a gentle stroll and explained about the bush and how vulnerable it can be. It made us appreciate where we live even more, and how areas like this must be preserved.

300 year old tree ferns
Native laurel

Lunch was a super spread served by our attentive crew in a unique bush camp. Apart from the huge mosquitos it was perfect.

Returning to the boat and starting the engine saw the return of another pair of Sea Eagles. The last free fish of the day took a couple of goes before one caught it, but provided a great photo opportunity.

Got it !

All in all a fantastic day with great company, and I managed to get on a boat at last. We shall see what tomorrow brings….

Frankland/Arthur River junction and lunch spot.