We left Victor harbour in plenty of time to drive the 60 odd kilometres across to Cape Jervis where we would catch the vehicular ferry across to Kangaroo Island. The ferry approached the small marina at what appeared to be alarming speed, only to execute a graceful 180 degree turn and sidle up to the wharf in what was a masterful display of boat handling. We were eventually shuffled on board. I was a bit surprised to be asked to reverse in! Having done my backing up I was guided into an end parking spot with at least 6 inches on the passenger side. They really know how to stack the 50 odd vehicles on.
I joined Judy upstairs in the saloon where we had a comfortable sofa like seat just behind the big main front window. One had to smile, in front of us were a row of single bucket seats that swivelled, either on their own with each succeeding swell as it rolled under the craft, or propelled by the 6 yo from France who sat and span the entire 45 minute trip to Penneshaw. Good job we don't get sea sick; the rocking motion and the continual spinning tops in front of us would be enough to send you screaming for the head (that's nautical talk for loo).
Driving off was of course much more straightforward as we were all facing the loading ramp. Instead of roaring off like everyone else for the big smoke, Kingscote, we stopped in Penneshaw and found the only open cafe for some lunch. It is about 100km from Penneshaw to Kingscote, quite a good road with lovely green fields and bushland and despite the intermittent rain, quite enjoyable.
We found our place at The Pier Apartment #10 but ran into trouble trying to get in. First, we expected a reception desk of sorts but found none. Judy fronted the reception in the Aurora Ozone Hotel next door, and despite the fact that they don't manage this particular apartment, they made phone calls and sorted it out. What the Sealink people had neglected to do was give us the instructions including the entry code for the key-box at the front door. What they had no way of knowing was that the door on the box was jammed solid and no manner of coaxing was ever going to get it open. Thankfully, we did have phone number now and a gent who we assumes owns the place turned up in short time and gave us the spare key. Nothing quite like being mucked-about getting into your accommodation to put you right off a place.
No harm done though and after Judy had a nap and I a walk around the pier, we adjourned to the Hotel to repay their kindness by taking our dinner there at their excellent restaurant.
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| Lighthouse. Cape Jervis SA |
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| Sealion 2000 ferry car deck. Cape Jervis SA |
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| Pier 10 Apartment Kingscote SA |
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| Aurora Ozone Hotel, Kingscote SA |
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| Sealion 2000, Cape Jervis SA |
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