Lunch in Sorrento

Tuesday, 25 September 2012

Three months to Christmas, just in case anyone was wondering!

Another chilly start to the day, but at least the wind had dropped. Cousin Norm had suggested we travel to Sorrento for lunch, via the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento and return. After deep perusal of the weather forecast, I agreed and Norm collected us for the short drive to Queenscliff. As we had a short time to wait, we embarked on a mini-tour of the town, with a quick look at the large fort – and Norm’s favourite coffee shop! Back to the waterfront and we came across a protest demonstration (evidently some people would prefer the United States not send their servicemen to Darwin); the protestors and their children were having morning tea and the half dozen or so policemen( who were keeping an eye on any developments) were busy enjoying kicking a football. We received smiles and waves from both police and protestors as we went on our way.

The ferry journey takes 40 minutes, with two large catamarans leaving both ports on the hour. We didn’t take the car (too expensive), so travelled as foot passengers in the relative comfort of the coffee lounge and upper deck. The sea was very calm (luckily!!!) and Cat was quite happy to sit on Norm’s knee for a while and watch the water police milling around beside the ship. Once we were on deck as we neared Portsea, we immediately spotted a seal on his back, waving to us. In the distance we passed by the old quarantine station and some rather pleasant looking houses, complete with beach/bath houses. Cat thought it would be more prudent to sit on the life rafts, just in case!

After docking in Sorrento, we “did” the main street (well, the only one actually) before deciding on “Buckley’s Chance” for a very enjoyable lunch (no, Nathan was not there). The weather had warmed up to a mild 15 degrees, but it was a little cool on deck for the return voyage. It was also a little less smooth, with same swells developing as we crossed The Rip. We stopped at Norm’s house for an inspection of his garden (very nice indeed) before returning to the caravan.

Tonight we are having dinner with Norm, his brother Milton and Milton’s wife, Margaret.