Port Lincoln and Lincoln National Park

Our first few days in Port Lincoln were spent doing the mundane tasks – shopping, washing, car & caravan maintenance etc.  Mark and I ventured out on our bikes and explored a great deal of the Boston Bay coastline.  It was spectacular. 

Donna on the bike trail in Port Lincoln

When it started to blow a gale we all decided to take the caravans towards Lincoln National Park where we found a wonderful freestay, protected from the wind, called September Bay.  It was there that Mark at least, found success, catching three King George Whiting from the rocks.  Unfortunately John and Donna were just drowning bait, while Kathie was lending support.  We also visited Engine Point, which had emerald green water and we all rode our bikes to Donington Lighthouse.  

Our campsite at September Bay

Mark at September Bay (Great Facilities for a National Park)

September Bay

Fishermen just waiting for the right tide at Engine Point

Engine Point

On our return to Port Lincoln we all put on our tourist hats.  John and Kathie went to a maritime museum and Mark and Donna opted to swim with the tuna, which was very exciting.  We had the best weather in quite a while, the bay looked at its best.  It’s hard to describe the colour of the water.  Some facts for those of you who may be interested.  Port Lincoln lies on Boston Bay, which is three and a half times larger than Sydney Harbour and is the second largest harbour in the world.  Port Lincoln was originally built from the grain industry, and grain is still a major export from this deep water harbour.  Nowadays tuna is another major industry.  Tuna is no longer caught by long poles, but rather encircled with nets and transferred to tuna farms, where they are held for 4 to 5 months and double their weight in that time.  After being caught and put into the farms, the trip home towing tuna can take up to six weeks as the average speed is less than one nautical mile per hour.  I just know that they are huge fish, and it was amazing to swim next to them.  When bait was thrown they travel up to 70km an hour past you to get it.  Quite scary at times.  There is also major money in tuna.  The mansions on the canal estates near the marina must be worth a pretty penny, and their toys outside have to be seen to be believed.

Canal & Dingy's!

Grain being loaded onto ships in harbour at Port Lincoln

Donna enjoying swimming with the tuna

The tuna in the pens....up to 70kg

Can you pick Mark in the group?

Tomorrow we leave for Coffin Bay.  We are equipped with the right bait, and inside information on places to fish.  John and Kathie are really looking forward to the oysters, as they're supposed to be fantastic.

A big hello to all our families and friends.  It's great to hear from you, keep the comments, emails and phone calls coming please.