Monday, 18 October – Friday, 22 October
I spent these last 5 days in Lombok sorting out the necessary paper work for leaving, and making my final preparations on board.
My passport with the new Indonesian visa was returned on Tuesday, 19 October; and my package from Singapore arrived that afternoon. I had a Covid-19 test on Wednesday, 20 October, and an inspection by customs on Thursday, 21 October. My port clearance papers finally came through late on Friday afternoon, 22 October.
I spoke to David on Rona on Wednesday. He had just arrived in Labuan Bajo, having motored all the way in light airs. The weather forecast predicted more light winds on this northern route, and l decided then, that I would take the southern route as it was shorter and the winds would likely be stronger for sailing. I could then perhaps, make it all the way to Darwin without stopping for fuel in Kupang.
After speaking with the marina manager,Albert, I decided accordingly, to clear out of Indonesia here at Gillegede in Lombok. Albert said that if I needed to stop for fuel I would still be able to do so at Kupang without clearing in again, as the fuel could be delivered to me on the boat; and he gave me the name and contact details of the person I should call to get fuel in Kupang.
I inspected the steering system and the crack in the steering ram. I could not seal the crack but as there was still oil in the system after some 10 hours of motoring to and from Gille Aer, I decided the leak should be manageable provided I had enough spare hydraulic oil; and I arranged for the marina to supply me with an extra 4 litres.
I cleaned and oiled the wood trim on the gunwales and cleaned the numerous rust streaks on the gunwales, deck and coach roof. I also cleaned the propeller and waterline, and was pleased to see there was little sign of any marine growth on the underwater hull.
I topped up the gas bottles and recharged my portable electrical equipment and tested my new handheld GPS unit. On the Friday morning I decided to check how many units of time remained on my sat phone, and was very glad I did, as there were only 96.5 units left. I immediately spoke to Rob who helped me to purchase further units from the AST agent in Singapore.
So on Friday evening after receiving my port clearance papers I settled my account with the marina, enjoyed dinner and a final few drinks ashore, then turned in excited about the voyage ahead.