[password] NZL9424A27
[position] 17.10S 179.01W
[status] The island of Vanua Balavu is stunning. This is the island that we arrived at fromTonga. The village of LomoLomo was our clearance port. Immigration couldn't get to clear all the boats on our first day so the following morning, Glens birthday, they cleared 4 boats then came on board and cleared us then we took them with us 3 hours to the beautiful harbour of Nabavatu. This harbour is quite small, but had a record number of boats totalling 37 inside it for one night. We all went ashore and had a traditional Cava ceremony. It was a special evening. There is an official Royal Exploring Isles Yacht Squadron based here, which kindly opened its doors to us.
We left here the next morning. 37ish boats all in single file convoy. It was a real sight. There are a lot of surprise reefs that need to be carefully navigated. We were heading for a village called Daliconi who were hosting us for a Meke and Lovo, dinner and entertainment.
On our way there we passed through the Bay of Islands. A smaller scale of the New Zealand Bay of Islands but WOW. We travelled in between islands with only 2 boat widths of water in places. It is the most interesting place for boating. We have come back here and kayaked. We are having a guided tour through caves both large and small. Most of the fleet have come back here today for this tour. We went to the local Methodist church this morning. It was lovely and both pastors that spoke, spoke in English as well for their guests. There was probably 25 people off the boats. We were very warmly welcomed here. The singing was great. Some of the songs were the same as home and It was a privilege to be there.
All good on board. 2 weeks until we have Kristy and Stefan on board. Can't wait!![END]