[password]8Tarnhows
[position]22 36.5s 176 23.0w
[weather]6/8 Sc patches of AltCu, wind ene 20-25kt, swell ne 2-3m short period.
[status] Good morning viewers
Huey has stuck to his word and whilst the conditions are unpleasant they are well within the capabilities of Ambler II. The 2-3m large chop from just 30 degrees off the starboard bow is giving us an uncomfortable pitching with some rolling motion as we advance toward Tonga. Sleeping was not easy last night. However with our crew roster of 2hours on and 6 off. We are all adequately rested.
The Yanmar engine has been purring now for about 9 hours and it looks as though we will stay motoring for about another 30nm until we are clear of a small islet and shoal. We then anticipate setting course and reaching for the western tip of Tongatapu where we will anchor and spend the late night/early morning hours before entering Nuku?alofa harbour.
No complaints; ocean sailing is not all smooth seas and following winds! But, given the beautiful days we?ve had thus far we cannot complain. Arriving a little earlier In Nuku?alofa may also allow us to partake of other tourist activities - perhaps even exploring the caves and/or fishing, diving and snorkeling.
Meantime, we will keep beating into this wind for another few hours then we should be able to enjoy a more pleasant beam reach.
Thinking of you all,
Jim, Bill (scribe),Steve and Tim

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