A-TRAIN

Wed May 24 5:13 2017 NZST
GPS: 50 12.7N 120 29.5736W
Run: 2.5nm (4.5km)

Wed May 24 5:00 2017 NZST
Speed:
No Rush at all
knts
Weather: SW 2 ripple on the lake 30C 0%cloud cover

Greetings All. A-TRAIN has been sold to a very nice fellow from Whitianga who is planning for Fiji this season if weather ever settles down. After the sail and sale, we flew to Tonga and stayed three weeks in the Queen Mothers Fale or Cabin. What an honour to be accepted as guests of the Royal Family and stay in her Fale during the mourning period. Hard to describe that feeling. Wow. We are just now back home in Canada enjoying spring and warm dry weather. Selling came with a very mixed bag of emotions and we are still not sure what we have done but Fred wanted her so we made a deal. Packing up and unloading a cruising boat is a daunting affair and not without stress but we got through it. Looking back at sailing videos now we really miss being at sea and ripping along at speed and we wish everyone out there ongoing cruising fun and a superb sailing season. We will lurk here for a while until hunting season opens at least.


 


Wed Nov 23 7:42 2016 NZDT
GPS: 50 12.60522N 120 32.91092W
Run: 2.2nm (4km)
Avg: 2.9knts
24hr: 68.8nm

Wishing those still on passage good conditions and a safe arrival in NZ.


Wed Nov 23 6:56 2016 NZDT
GPS: 50 12.11192N 120 29.96655W
Run: 7142.7nm (12928.3km)
Avg: 17knts
24hr: 408.7nm

Nestled in at the Lake House in Canada, been up the mountain a couple of times played in the snow, warm fire every night, big stores and all the first world benefits and drawbacks. As cruisers we are used to compromise so we will just have to persevere and enjoy the visit home. Fish are still rising on the lake, grouse, moose and deer behind the house, can't beat that.


November morning on the lake
Sat Nov 5 19:28 2016 NZDT
GPS: 35 50.25394S 174 28.00214E
Run: 5.5nm (10km)

All good here in Marsden, sea mode cleared away, and back in coastal mode, all gear desalted and cleaned up, rested and fed. Feels good to be back in the first world in many ways but crowded and busy and all that comes with that but bad to be gone fromTonga and the tropics and Pacific Island life and our friends. We will just have to endure for now, speaking of now! Now, where did we put that tequila again?


Tue Nov 1 7:39 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.0
knts
GPS: 35 52.02s 174 33.48e
Run: 297.1nm (537.8km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 146.7nm
Weather: 40% cloud, winds NW 6, Bar 1022 up 2, sea rippled.

Currently rounding Bream Head, ETA Marsden Cove Marina, two hours. Nice sunrise and good viz, which is a relief. Much cooler than Tonga but Summer is on the way. Long pants, 'socks'! and fleece jackets for now! Made it in just in time....big winds forecast for later today and this evening as another front passes over NZ. Quite a different pace coming into a busy area, with lots of obstacles, nav lights and boat traffic to watch for. Just switched the AIS from Offshore to Coastal Mode, next digging out the fenders and lines for pulling up to the Customs Dock. Yellow Q Flag is raised. Next, dig out all of the foods that the Quarantine Officer will take, along with any garbage. With the exception of a long sleep, all is good on board.


Sun Oct 30 7:03 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5-7.0
knts
GPS: 31 49.58s 176 19.555e
Run: 216.5nm (391.9km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 178.3nm
Weather: 100% cloud, winds S 8-10 Bar 1020 steady, sea 2 foot chop from south and sw. light drizzle and cooler.

Light air sailing then, motor sailing now,looks like we may be able to beat into SE the rest of the way but still making for a position to take advantage of the stronger SE forecasted, the SW still never materialized as forecast on gribs. Spotted lights from one yacht on a 180 true, 2 miles to port, no AIS ident, name. Arpox 260 to run to whagarei. All Good on Board.


Sat Oct 29 1:54 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5-7.0
knts
GPS: 28 43.58s 176 50.555e
Run: 132.8nm (240.4km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 183.7nm
Weather: 50% cloud, winds S 4-6 Bar 1020 sea slight with south swell short leftover waves for the odd pounding crash.

Light air sailing then at 130 am lost the wind, motor sailing now, making for a position to take advantage of the SE in two days by staying west with any luck it will work out but the weather is ever changing. Gwen baked two loaves of focasia bread today and pulling off more galley miracles, we are eating well. All good on Board.


Fri Oct 28 8:33 2016 NZDT
Speed:
9
knts
GPS: 27 18S 178 18E
Run: 8670.4nm (15693.4km)
Avg: 3689.1knts
24hr: 88538.3nm
Weather: in a squall, 15kt

Fri Oct 28 6:12 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.5
knts
Run: 8787.1nm (15904.7km)
Avg: 448.3knts
24hr: 10759.7nm
Weather: 70% cloud, winds SSE 7-10 Bar 1019 steady

underway NZ, good night sail after struggling all day to eke out some miles, light winds but in the groove nicely and really moving considering nothing over 9.5 kts wind on the nose. Nice sea conditions finally but all that is about to change next 24 hours so we will leave the reef in the main for now and see how we go. Decision time as to remain east or move west to make the final approach to Whangarei as the front is due tomorrow early right on our course and it might mean more seriouis head winds so we need to pick an angle of attack which will provide the least bashing and best speeds to get off the sea. Definitely cooler at night now, still shorts and t shirt but waiting for the sun now. probably looking at pants tomorrow night, argghhh. Very dark all night, cloudy so it was black as!


Thu Oct 27 10:36 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.0-8.0
knts
GPS: 25 37.58s 178 54.555e
Run: 67.5nm (122.2km)
Avg: 60.4knts
24hr: 1449.7nm
Weather: 80% cloud, winds SE and SW 6-10 Bar 1020,up 3

Light air sailing milking the fluky winds, three different sea conditions and light air = a very sloppy night watch. Lots of food to eat yet before arrival, may have to heave too for a week,relax and pig out,,or not. All good on Board.


Thu Oct 27 9:28 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6
knts
GPS: 25 30S 179 59E
Run: 123.1nm (222.8km)
Avg: 7.9knts
24hr: 189.6nm
Weather: 5-9ene

light copy


Thu Oct 27 7:36 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.0-8.0
knts
Weather: 80% cloud, winds SE 6-10 Bar 1020,up 3

Light air sailing milking the fluky winds, three different sea conditions and light air = a very sloppy night watch. Lots of food to eat yet before arrival, may have to heave too for a week,relax and pig out,,or not. All good on Board.


Wed Oct 26 17:54 2016 NZDT
Speed:
7.0-8.5, topped out 9.6 in 13 knots at 38 degrees true wind angle, hhave not hit double figures yet this passage, yet!
knts
GPS: 23 52.58s 179 12.71w
Run: 85.2nm (154.2km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 163.6nm
Weather: 60% cloud, winds SSE 6-12 Bar 1016,down 3

Light air sailing since the dark wee hours this am, every light air sail and trick being employed as things change. Passed up the stop at Minerva in favor of pushing thru to find some SE winds and get the passage over with , now on rhomb line to Whangarei albiet hard on the wind heeled over and pushing hard. All good on Board.


Wed Oct 26 5:24 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 22 54.58s 178 22.71w
Run: 9358.4nm (16938.7km)
Avg: 424.4knts
24hr: 10186nm
Weather: 90% cloud, winds SSE 4-6 Bar 1019,up 2 again

Light air sailing and Motor sailing in light winds on the nose with a 0.5 M S swell Considering stop in minerva but will look at next weather file and listen to David before deciding, about 45 to run to North Minerva where we might wait out a day or so for favorable winds right down to Whangarei. All good on Board.


Tue Oct 25 7:21 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
Run: 9470.3nm (17141.2km)
Avg: 983.5knts
24hr: 23604nm
Weather: 80% cloud, winds SSE 4.0 Bar 1017,up 2

Departed Paingaimotu, 630 last night after a tough but quick goodbye session with our friends and adopted family. Really cool send off with horns and waves and radio calls by the 20 yachts there when we sailed off into the sunset, thanks for that folks! And yes the anchor did come up. Motor sailing moderately so far in very light winds with a 1.5 M SE swell and a wind ripple on top of that.


Mon Oct 24 21:43 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 5.48735S 175 29.39087W
Run: 21.3nm (38.6km)

Wind SSE 6-8 goofy sea but slight. bar 1017, sky ,,dark. Underway NZ. Departed 630 pm from Big Mama's hapeart felt goodbyes but had to do it. Motorsailing the rhumb line a bit bouncy but that should settle down once away from land. The odd pound, all tough to get used too after so long at anchor. Ok updates underway later. Ned to hit send before internet escapes. AGOB.


Mon Oct 24 7:53 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.619S 175 9.667W
Run: 623.8nm (1129.1km)
Avg: 3967.6knts
24hr: 95223.2nm

SSE 10-15, 50%cloud cover bar 1015 up 2. Cooler and RH down to 85 ! Now 20 yachts here. Organized a big cruisers BBQ two nights ago, great fun event and party for all. Then last night we had a huge turkey cooked in the Umu and full turkey dinner with the family and staff of Big Mama's in honour of Gwens B Day. Gwen made the stuffing and a carrot cake c/w cream cheese frosting,,mmmmm goood. Turkey dinner in the tropics! Cool things just keep happening out here this season. Lots of chit chat about departures over the next several days, Big Mama YC birthday celebration is on Friday, should be another cool event. Going to be tough to raise anchor for the passage this time, love it here.


Mon Oct 24 7:43 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.678S 175 9.665E
Run: 623.9nm (1129.3km)
Avg: 8.7knts
24hr: 209.5nm

Mon Oct 24 7:42 2016 NZDT
No position sent.

Mon Oct 24 7:41 2016 NZDT
No position sent.

Se 10-15 calm overnight bar 1015 up 2 50% cloud cover. 20 yachts here now, had a big BBQ 2 nights back, awesome event, then we had a huge turkey dinner last night with all the family and staff of Big Mama's , baked in the Umu of course all in honour of Gwens B Day turkey dinner in the tropics, another first, Gwen made the stuffing and baked a carrot cake c/w cream cheese frosting, mmm good. Cool things continue to happen this season, going to be tough to raise anchor for the passage. Lots of talk of departures over the next several days. Big Mama year end birthday party on Friday, should be a hoot.


Fri Oct 21 8:15 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.67819S 175 9.63870W
Run: 1nm (1.8km)

Wind NW 20 sunny and 1011. Exposed wind direction here and high tide approaching quite a ride here at anchor 13 yachts here now, one appears to have sustained damage on route here.


Thu Oct 20 8:01 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.65286S 175 10.56933W
Run: 1nm (1.8km)

Wind SE 16, showers bar 1015 still muggy 12 yachts here now. Yes we did have a private visit with the The King of Tonga, His Royal Majesty King Tupou VI, yesterday on Pangaimotu, hard to believe Gwen was requested to bake for his afternoon tea, who does that? Wow we have been so fortunate.


Mon Oct 17 7:30 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.63182S 175 9.68330W
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)

Wind SE 15 100% cloud bar 1019. Leading edge of the high apparent. At least four we know of departing today, two gone already. We will wait to see how the head winds for the last half of the passage look later today then decide if we will stay or jog down to Minerva and catch the next high. Massive Cruise ship just docking now at the wharf. Always something going on out here.


Sat Oct 15 15:21 2016 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 21 07.58s 175 09.71w
Run: 9502.2nm (17199km)
Avg: 13574.6knts
24hr: 325789.7nm
Weather: 30% cloud, winds SW 10 Bar 1016

Anchored Paingaimotu, Tonga, Back from the provisioning trip to town and the oh so cool market but it is hot as hell in there with little breeze and sunny sky. 30C and 70% humidity in the shaded cabin now at 2 pm. 13 yachts in the departure que today looking at Monday and there abouts for Minerva and direct to NZ depending on who you talk to. Going to miss the tropics and hoping over the side for a swim because it is so hot and humid you have to cool off and mould grows before your eyes when it is like this but still pretty nice to be able to stare at tropical islands and swaying palms and sun and sand and beautiful blue water. All good and enjoyable The people have all been very nice and tonite I have organized the BBQ for all the cruisers in the anchorage as a sort of farewell party. Bring your bbq preference and Mama supplies the salads and fixings and plating and barbecuing and clean up and all that for $20 TOP a head plus a happy hour. Pretty good deal. Sean and Sebina,from Chevaldy will be performing again which will be another treat and Mama is trying to get Bo over from the mainland, a very colourful local performer and character, so it should be a wonderful send off. Now to figure out how to put the sleep in the bank that we will need for the passage? Ah the challenges of social activity in the cruising world.


Sat Oct 15 14:39 2016 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
Run: 9502.3nm (17199.2km)
Avg: 1389knts
24hr: 33336nm
Weather: 30% cloud, winds SW 10 Bar 1016

Anchored Paingaimotu, Tonga, Back from the provisioning trip to town and the oh so cool market but it is hot as hell in there with little breeze and sunny sky. 30C and 70% humidity in the shaded cabin now at 2 pm. 13 yachts in the departure que today looking at Monday and there abouts for Minerva and direct to NZ depending on who you talk to. Going to miss the tropics and hoping over the side for a swim because it is so hot and humid you have to cool off and mould grows before your eyes when it is like this but still pretty nice to be able to stare at tropical islands and swaying palms and sun and sand and beautiful blue water. All good and enjoyable The people have all been very nice and tonite I have organized the BBQ for all the cruisers in the anchorage as a sort of farewell party. Bring your bbq preference and Mama supplies the salads and fixings and plating and barbecuing and clean up and all that for $20 TOP a head plus a happy hour. Pretty good deal. Sean and Sebina,from Chevaldy will be performing again which will be another treat and Mama is trying to get Bo over from the mainland, a very colourful local performer and character, so it should be a wonderful send off. Now to figure out how to put the sleep in the bank that we will need for the passage? Ah the challenges of social activity in the cruising world.


Sat Oct 15 7:48 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.39535S 175 8.89750W
Run: 0.9nm (1.6km)

SE4-6 clear sky bar 1015 up 3 overnight. Obvious scramble going on around th anchorage as folks prepare various things and complete checks and routines they have established prior to going to sea. Not hard to tell departures are imminent around here. 11 yachts in Tongatapu now. Many now looking at Monday with some stopping at Minerva and some not, depends what unfolds with weather along the route and who needs a break. We are looking at a non stop but that too can change. Organizing another big BBQ at Pangaimotu tonite as the last tropical beach activity before NZ and colder climes. Will post along the way as time permits.


Thu Oct 13 8:19 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.64897S 175 9.67059W

SW 5 calm overnight clear sky bar 1015. Probably depart Sun for NZ on this next high.

Off to get fuel this am. Treated the family and staff of Big Mamas to a huge BBQ feast last night for being so good to us during our stay here. Wonderful time had by all. Same count of dogs before and after dinner, a good sign.


Tue Oct 11 7:45 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.66009S 175 9.70832W
Run: 1.2nm (2.2km)

Wind NE 20 higher gusts, rain heavy at times overnight 100% cloud, menacing looking east thru north west. More rain on the way no doubt. Bar 1010. 11 yachts at anchor all facing NE. Feels like the worst of it may be yet to come although brighter sky to the West and South   


Fri Oct 7 8:19 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 8.29242S 175 10.54289W
Run: 1.2nm (2.2km)

Wind gone NW here 5 kts, 30% cloud bar 1016 up 2. All set for the am start. 10 yachts here now more on the way from North. 


Wed Oct 5 8:04 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.61268S 175 9.69740W
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)

SE 6, band of thickening cloud to the E NE, 1017 steady, hot and sticky. Wonderful outing last night to a somewhat affluent family's reunion with cultural dancers from Tonga, Niue, Samoa and Fiji all performing for the family and one birthday girl. Spectacular, It just keeps getting better. We do not like the looks of Monday Tuesday's visit from that nasty little depression and what it will bring,, and no point departing before that either, could reach 40 kts here according to GRIBs ,,,but as with everything out here that too can change.


Tue Oct 4 8:34 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 07.5126s 175 09.6931w
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: 5SE, 50%cc, 1014 steady

getting to be quite a gathering of yachts at Big mamas. Would that be a gaggle? Maybe a fleet. All waiting to depart for Minerva and south


Mon Oct 3 7:24 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.59936S 175 9.69119W
Run: 0.5nm (0.9km)

Wind SE 5, 20% cloud, bar 1018 up 2, 25 in the cabin and 77% RH. 10 boats here now, one departing today for Minerva. More on the way down from Hapaai and Vavau, no fuel up there for yachts right now. Still absorbing the Queens visit. Off to town today to the market, great fresh market here, sort of spoils you a little.


Sun Oct 2 10:25 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.87945S 175 10.07387W
Run: 0.6nm (1.1km)

Wow, yesterday we took Her Royal Majesty, the Queen Mother, former Queen of the Kingdom of Tonga and her entourage for a day sail. What a privilege bestowed upon us to be able to spend time with a true Monarch aboard our yacht. The entourage went fwd and left us alone with HRM in the cockpit to visit privately and get to know her. She is truly a Regal and Royal Lady!


There is lots to tell but that will have to go into the blog. 8 yachts here now, many looking at the next high for the passage to NZ, we will probably hang a while longer.


HRM Queen Mother of the Kingdom of Tonga sailing aboard A-TRAIN
Fri Sep 30 12:38 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.512S 175 9.693W

Still in Pangaimotu and languishing in the heat and humidity which we will have to enjoy while we can. Drip,drip drip, We will be spending time in winter soon enough. Over the side for a dip in a few minutes to cool off,,again. The Queen Mother is here for a few days ,,camping,,,at Pangaimotu to escape the heat in town no doubt. We will visit with her as special guests of Ana and Earl which will be quite a privilege.

For cruisers we have learned Marsden Cove, Town Basin and Bridge Control have changed channels to VHF 18 from the previous 64 and Coast Guard has moved to 05, please spread the word. Looking now for a passage window that will offer fast sailing down to NZ over the next couple of weeks.


Fri Sep 30 12:29 2016 NZDT
No position sent.

Still here in Pangaimotu. Very hot and sticky. Need to enjoy it while we can as we will be enduring the cold soon enough so it's over the side for us to cool off. The Queen Mother is here for a couple of days,,,camping,,, at Pangaimotu so we will visit with her as guests of Ana and Earl, what a privilege. For cruisers, we have learned that Marsden Cove, Town Basin and Bridge control have changed to VHF ch 18 and Coast Guard to 05. Please spread the word.

Looking for a weather window to NZ that will allow a fast passage over the next couple of weeks.


Wed Sep 28 7:39 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.5126S 175 9.6931W

Wind W 6, Bar 1011 And FOG ? In the tropics,,,who knew. Sky appears to be clear but can not tell. Oh that's why everything is soaked inside and out. 98% humidity and 27C in the cabin this morning. Another yachtie said their sheets were like sleeping in wet lettuce,,,warm wet lettuce,,,yuck. Thankfully our boat ventilates well and we can flip on the A/C which changes everything. 8 yachts here now.  That will probably grow pretty steady now. We will look for a window over the next couple of weeks or so. Cool, rain or snow and a fireplace don't sound too bad right now. Better be careful what we wish for, way out here.


Tue Sep 27 8:34 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 07.5126s 175 09.6931w
Run: 1nm (1.8km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 115.7nm
Weather: NW16, 70%cc, 1011

with about 4 other boats waiting at pangaimotu.. hope the anchor comes up when the time comes.


Tue Sep 27 8:22 2016 NZDT
GPS: 21 7.21521S 175 8.82540W
Run: 1nm (1.8km)

Wind NW 8, 70% cloud, Bar1011, hot and sticky up here. One super yacht has come and gone c/w chopper which you do not usually see in Tonga. No petrol and rationed diesel in Vavau putting a real strain on locals and yachties and all things motorized. The King of Tonga was here at Pangaimotu the other day for a swim and hooka practice then a long chat with Earl on the beach in the shade, the two grew up together so have a little history. We are preparing a formal invite to their Magisties King and Queen of Tonga to visit us in Canada for a Western Rural cowboy country visit with time in the bush with the critters etc which Earl will present for us. We understand such a trip is on the Royal Bucket list. Whew what a guest group that would be.


The King of Tonga using a hooka and enjoying an afternoon at the beach
Tue Sep 27 8:10 2016 NZDT
No position sent.

Tue Sep 27 8:09 2016 NZDT
No position sent.

Wind NW 8, 70% cloud Bar 1011, hot and very sticky.

One super yacht with c/w chopper has come and gone, not usual Tonga visitors the super yachts. No petrol at all and rationed fuel up in Vavau putting a strain on locals as well as yachts and all things motorized. The King of Tonga was here at Pangaimotu swimming and using a hooka and hanging out with Earl who grew up with him. We are working on the invitation for Their Majesties the King and Queen of Tonga to visit us in Canada which Earl will present for us. A western rural setting and some time in real cowboy country are reportedly on the Royal bucket list. What a guest group that would be.


Sat Sep 24 6:51 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.581S 175 9.660W
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)

Anchored Pangaimotu, wind WSW 5, 60% cloud, bar 1019 up one.

Five yachts here at the moment, all planning for NZ at some point. All good here in the warm, actually in the Hot.


Mon Sep 19 8:20 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.86371S 175 8.42628W
Run: 0.6nm (1.1km)

Light winds and mostly sunny. Warmer past couple of days. Time to break out the shade gear. Looks like back to NZ for radar fix, not going to happen out here. Oh well a stop at Minerva might be in order.


Fri Sep 9 7:14 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.64034S 175 8.95414W
Run: 0.8nm (1.4km)

Bar 1019, wind SE 8, 100% cloud very humid, got the glaze going pretty steady, several days of cloud and showers forecast looks like uv index zero. Caught a nice snapper and brought in to Big Mamas and they loved it. Said it had cucumber in its stomach when they cleaned it, vegitarian snapper, who knew? Where did that snapper get that cucumber?


Thu Sep 8 7:32 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.598S 175 9.712W
Run: 1nm (1.8km)

Bar 1021 90% cloud wind light SE. Calm overnight, back on the radar quest we go.


Tue Sep 6 6:36 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 8.163s 175 10.415w
Run: 1nm (1.8km)
Weather: E 8-10, 100% cloud and showers, bar still 1022,

Still in Tongatapu, learning to relax a little, and, A little more. Really nice day yesterday all chores caught up, perhaps shipping solution for radar will unfold this week. All quotes in the thousands so far. Not really keen on that. Oh, long weekend in the Americas, guess it is another day to wait, oh look, is that a palm tree, on a desert Island? All good on Board!


Fri Sep 2 7:20 2016 NZST
Speed:
00
knts
GPS: 21 7.560s 175 9.691w
Run: 1nm (1.8km)
Weather: Wind SE from 13-22 with gusts beginning to match forecasted 20's. 50% cloud bar 1022 up 2

Anchored Pangaimotu, leading edge of the high definately arrived.


Wed Aug 31 7:18 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 8.135s 175 10.397w
Run: 9501.7nm (17198.1km)
Avg: 139.6knts
24hr: 3351.1nm

Wind SE 4, calm, 60% cloud, bar 1018, shift overnight from light NE to light SE very heavy dew and RH 92%. 9 yachts at Pangaimotu


Sun Aug 28 11:15 2016 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
Weather: 90% cloud, winds SE 10 Bar 10243

Anchored Pangaimotu, Tonga, Some radar progress made and hopefully a solution this week, then wait this next weather system out and see if we can make some miles. It has been mostly cloudy for some time and not much sun coming. Nice spot to be sitting around.


Sun Aug 28 11:06 2016 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
Run: 9501.5nm (17197.7km)
Avg: 77knts
24hr: 1849nm
Weather: 90% cloud, winds SE 10 Bar 10243

Anchored Paingaimotu, Tonga, Somr radar progress made and hopefully a solution this week, then wait this next weather system out and see if we can make some miles. It has been mostly cloudy for some time and not much sun coming. Nice spot to be sitting around.


Tue Aug 23 7:46 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.86131S 175 7.04870W
Run: 0.9nm (1.6km)

Tested YIT App not sure it is working, wind SE 10. 70%cloud cover bar 1021 23C RH 65 not bad.

Photo of last night's cloud formation, very cool.


Mon Aug 22 7:10 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 8.01502S 175 7.88555W
Run: 0.8nm (1.4km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 180nm

Wind SE 10 -15, clear skies, couple small cumiies above us with a thick layer surrounding us around the horizon which is the blob moving off we hope. Bar 1021, up 2 overnight.


Mon Aug 22 7:04 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.70519S 175 8.51641W
Run: 0.7nm (1.3km)

Wow brightness in the sky after a week of rain at times really heavy. Boat is as clean as it could get and water tanks overflowing. Looks like some clear weather but windy next several days. Forgot to mention a couple humpbacks meandered very slowly through the anchorage and right close to shore while we watched from shore at Big Mamas. Said to be a cow and bull looking for a place to deliver the new calf. They need shallow and warm clear water with sand bottom and this is it. Hope to have another visit with the new one prsent. Many maintenance items completed, radar still unresolved but working with a techy in NZ later today to try and diagnose it for sure before we decide how to proceed. All good in paradise.


Sat Aug 20 7:07 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 7.89734S 175 9.14726W
Run: 0.7nm (1.3km)

Still at Pangaimotu, radar issue still not quite resolved so we will work on that but weather not quite suitable for the next leg at present so we will wait on that while we work on the radar and get it all sorted. More later


Tue Aug 16 7:32 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 07.5126s 175 09.6931w
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: 70%cc, 10E, 1021 steady, humid and warm

Will rest in Tongatapu for a few days before the next burst homeward.


Mon Aug 15 18:18 2016 NZST
Speed:
00
knts
GPS: 21 07.60s 175 09.721w
Run: 32.6nm (59km)
Avg: 3.1knts
24hr: 73.4nm
Weather: Wind E 10-15 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1019,sea rippled

Anchored Nukualofa after long upwind slog, but flat safe sleep tonight. AGOB! Many posts on route did not get through, will correct after 16 hours snoring.


Mon Aug 15 7:38 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 21 18S 175 38W
Run: 302.3nm (547.2km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151.1nm
Weather: 30%cc, 1021, 15E

Mon Aug 15 6:48 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0kts
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , E, 15-2-, 30% cloud cover, 1.5m E swell with a two foot chop and a SE swell developing on top, Bar 1020 steady

What an Idiot! 20 27 S - 175 39 W. That's not Tonga! The more I looked and thought about it, the more I realized, you can't see Tonga from 30 miles away can you? The highest point of land is about 100 feet to the top of a palm. 100 feet over 30 miles, probably not. Calm Down Russ, it will be visible shortly. Wind now East 15-20.


Mon Aug 15 5:57 2016 NZST
Speed:
7.5kts
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , ENE, 12-18, 30% cloud cover, 1.5m E swell with a one foot chop and a SE swell developing on top, Bar 1020 steady

Land HO!I can see Tonga, 21 27 S - 175 44 W. Sighed land just at daybreak under the clouds! Wind now dropped to south of east, pinching up hill in building breeze. Hope we get a land shadow for the seas.


Mon Aug 15 3:06 2016 NZST
Speed:
5.5kts
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , ENE, 10-15, 30% cloud cover, 1.0m ene swell with a one foot chop Bar 1020 dropping

Underway Tonga, 21 42 S - 175 53 W. SE wind came up to 20's and very squally most of the day, reefed down and made some progress, but wind has gone NE now right from Tonga. about 16 hours to go present conditions need to get thru the pass b about 3 or 4 latest. What an odd passage weather wise. Guess we have to take good with the bad out here.


Sun Aug 14 12:15 2016 NZST
Speed:
7-8kts
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SE, 12-16 now, 50% cloud cover, can see the frontal band all across the Northern horizon now. sea 1.0m se swell with a two foot chop Bar 1022 steady

Underway Tonga, 22 49 S - 176 48 W. After a very light night, the SE has arrived 12-20 moving well now. Should be in tomorrow. A little more to this windy stuff, actually have to pay attention. Passing by where we have caught big Mahi in an area of sea mounts so we are hoping for a Mahi or Tuna.


Sun Aug 14 2:39 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.0
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SE, 6-10 20% high cirus cloud bright 1/2 moon waxing, sea 1.0m sw swell Bar 1022 steady

Underway Tonga, 23 34 S - 178 28 W. Wind sill light now finally SE quadrant, subtle reaching, tickling her along at times ghosting and only the surfs down swell, which is also in our favor finally, keep us moving along. Actually beginning to enjoy this super light stuff now, flat sailing, quiet and no stress, bright half moon to light the way and nice and warm. Time for some popcorn, and just watch the show. Pretty nice all round. Gwen has pulled a few magic tricks out of the galley and we are fat and happy out here. Meat line will go back out before dawn, no luck yet. Yesterday there was some large areas of convective activity ,,,,SQUALLS,,to the East but we seemed to skirt it all day., No free boat wash but it aint over yet.


Sat Aug 13 14:33 2016 NZST
Speed:
6-6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 6-10 80% cloud, sea 3m se swell 2m sw swell, fun Bar 1022 down 2

Underway Tonga, 24 18 S - 178 01 W. Wind sill light and from behind, jibing down wind, very slowly. Meat line is out and we are hoping for tuna! Main radar display at nav stn went dark and it operates the pilot house unit so we are running blind at night to Tonga, need to find a fix on that one. Dont think percussive maintenance is an option here.


Sat Aug 13 7:37 2016 NZST
Speed:
6
knts
GPS: 24 54S 178 20W
Run: 140nm (253.4km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 140.2nm
Weather: 1025 up1, 50%cc, 2.5mswell, 12SSE

progress a bit slow for them but very pleasant sailing.


Sat Aug 13 6:39 2016 NZST
Speed:
6-6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 6-10 60% cloud, sea 1m sw swell Bar 1024 steady

Underway Tonga, 25 16 S - 178 43 W. Wind gone light and from behind, jibing down wind, very slowly. I guess relaxed sailing is not so bad once you accept the pace. We are used to moving much faster but have relaxed now and are taking it easy. Code Zero or spinnaker tomorrow! Or maybe drag a meat line and sun tan. Saw first life since departing today, fishing vessel crossed 1/2 mile off bow, he did answer the call and changed course, close enough for us. Nice and warm on the night watch. AGOB!


Sat Aug 13 6:39 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 6-10 60% cloud, sea large long period swells 2+m now from se Bar 1025 up one

Underway Tonga, 24 57 S - 178 23 W. Wind gone light and from behind, jibing down wind, very slowly.


Sat Aug 13 1:33 2016 NZST
Speed:
6-6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 6-10 60% cloud, sea 1m sw swell Bar 1024 steady

Underway Tonga, 25 16 S - 178 43 W. Wind gone light and from behind, jibing down wind, very slowly. I guess relaxed sailing is not so bad once you accept the pace. We are used to moving much faster but have relaxed now and are taking it easy. Code Zero or spinnaker tomorrow! Or maybe drag a meat line and sun tan. Saw first life since departing today, fishing vessel crossed 1/2 mile off bow, he did answer the call and changed course, close enough for us. Nice and warm on the night watch. AGOB!


Fri Aug 12 14:09 2016 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 6-10 50% cloud, sea 1 sw swell Bar 1024 steady

Underway Tonga, 25648 S - 179 37 W. Wind gone light and from behind, jibing down wind, very slowly. Need to save fuel for last leg and arrival. Looks like a slow couple of days coming up. AGOB!


Fri Aug 12 7:39 2016 NZST
Speed:
5
knts
GPS: 26 22S 179 53W
Run: 180.8nm (327.2km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 180.4nm
Weather: 8-12SW, 1024, sw swell

all is well


Fri Aug 12 6:33 2016 NZST
Speed:
6
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 10-12 50% cloud, sea 2+m sw swell Bar 1024 up one

Underway Tonga, 26 30 S - 179 55 W. It was a light wind night with a crappy wind/swell combination. This morning shows squalls all around. AGOB!


Thu Aug 11 18:30 2016 NZST
Speed:
8-9
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , SW, 10-14 40% cloud, sea 2+m wsw swell Bar 1023 steady

Underway Tonga, 27 38 S - 179 36 E. NW filled in really well like David said it would, steady 18 for hours now switching SW. Made some good tracks, 11.4 top speed on surfs, nite watch coming up. Large area of dark menacing stuff to the East, trying to keep west of it and head North, does not look inviting so we will give it a miss if we can. Pretty good going for now. AGOB!


Thu Aug 11 7:35 2016 NZST
Speed:
8
knts
GPS: 28 45S 178 54E
Run: 8201nm (14843.8km)
Avg: 218.2knts
24hr: 5235.6nm
Weather: 10w, 50%cc, 1023

all well


Thu Aug 11 6:39 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , NW, 6-10 40% cloud, sea 1.5m sw swell Bar 1023 up 2

Underway Tonga, 28 52 S - 178 48 E Motor sailing in light winds,less squally now. sunrise this local, 640 am. Pushing a little to reach Tonga but might just shut engine down and sail a bit if we see steady 10+kts, it will be slower but quieter. Batteries and all electronic devises definitely fully charged. AGOB!


Wed Aug 10 16:45 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
No position sent.
Weather: , Never saw NW, light all day, now 5 to 7 W SW, squalls about, 50% cloud, sea 1.5m wsw swell Bar 1021

Underway Tonga, 30 20 S - 177 45 E Motor sailing in light winds, still a little sloppy but less crash bang repeat, definitely getting warmer, last squall had 24 kts WSW. Going to pay, yes PAY a visit to Total fuels in Tonga for a duty free top off after this leg. Motored nearly all the way so far, could have bobbed and got tossed around sailing and relaxed for a few bucks less but not our style to hang out mid ocean and see what happens. Pitter Patter, Big Mamas awaits. Radar is acting up and that is a bother but open waters out here. AGOB!


Wed Aug 10 5:51 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
No position sent.
Weather: 100% cloud, rain, wind after last squall with hail and 22kts, 7-10 from 350 and swinging all around, Bar 1022

Underway Tonga wind never came W of N NE until just now, 1700 UTC ,been on the nose since departing, squally and sloppy cond with a good light show. Sea 2M but from all over the map, every once in a while a pot hole appears out front and we drop into it with a crash, can' see 'em coming, felt the fillings in my teeth rattle. I suppose it is better than gong to work.


Tue Aug 9 18:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
Run: 159nm (287.8km)
Avg: 9.2knts
24hr: 221.9nm
Weather: 100% cloud, winds N 5-9 seas sloppy, lots of squalls visible on horizon and now no radar!! lightning all around, two swell patterns to about 2m, Bar 1023, up 1

Underway NZ to Tonga, Headwinds from every point of sail and a dirty sloppy sea with 5-7 kts all over the map, motorsailing, headed for 30S and organized conditions,,we hope. No wind and crap seas make progress a grind but we are covering ground.


Tue Aug 9 0:48 2016 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
Run: 7539.8nm (13647km)
Avg: 415.6knts
24hr: 9974.7nm
Weather: 50% cloud, 1/4 moon, winds N 5-9 seas getting sloppy, lots of squalls visible on horizon and radar, two swell patterns to about 2m, Bar 1022.

Underway NZ to Tonga, departed noon today, Aug 8 with Carmina, Spirare and Tiger,,,guess who pulled away,,not us.. Tiger did a horizon job on us all. All good, lost a reef line out of the boom so will have to re reeve that in the daylight, who tied that knot? otherwise fine, Gwen asleep. Heard maritime radio call up a gale warning for Cape Brett, better push a bit harder to get N and E, need some northing to get under the headwinds in the am from that pesky little low off Cape Rianga. Should be light to moderate winds after that.


Mon Aug 8 6:39 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 50.24612S 174 28.02556E
Run: 11.1nm (20.1km)

Today is the day! 4 yachts departing Marsden Cove today, should be the last of the flock, GHR will be glad to see the back of us,,,for now!


Mon Aug 1 8:43 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 43.48648S 174 19.58122E

Still in Whangarei, still looking for a suitable window, may have to look a little harder, visas are getting close to expiring. Steve and Linda Dashew were over for a visit a week ago, in town to shake down their latest creation, the 78 foot FPB. hull #1. At least two more on order along with a host of other lengths in the que. about two years wait if you order now but WOW, ! Surfing at 22 knots on a power boat. On purpose! In control! They continue to get things right! We are invited to visit and cheek her out so that will be fun. This is not a great photo but you get the idea. She was named Cochise. Homeless our friends on the red boat are headed for and about to arrive in Vanuatu by now.


Mon Jul 25 19:29 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 43.50475S 174 19.60310E

And still we wait! Has not been a suitable window for us yet. May have gone on one or two openings by they provided for a glimpse of decent conditions then a heap of crap. Window? More like a peep hole. We are not in that kind of a rush but anytime soon would be nice.


Sat Jul 16 11:53 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 43.48464S 174 19.62420E
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)

Looks like there may be a window next week. All projects complete and boat is in great shape for passage. Some provisioning then stage down at Marsden Cove. Will be nice to be at sea again.


Sat Jul 2 8:30 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 43.46294S 174 19.57052E

Still here in Whangarei, no window so far and not for a week or so by the look of things. Frost on the docks this morning. All boat chores completed, we are in great shape and can even socialize a little while we wait and provision. Huge grocery store very near by makes it an easy provision job. Photo of frost on the docks. The red boat is SV Homeless a 27 footer sailed from Finland by a 30 year old couple over the past few years. We met them in Tonga and have crossed paths several times in the past year and a half and finally had them over for happies and appies this week. They are headed to Asia when weather permits. Cool people as with most we meet out here.


Wed Jun 22 8:28 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 43.43583S 174 19.59378E
Run: 13.6nm (24.6km)

Just about finished everything on the list thanks to a spell of nice weather. Shifting in to window shopping mode next few days. Weather window that is. No rush by the look of what's coming. A casual provisioning pace will be nice. Dark and rain today with a good breeze to make it real winter.


Fri Jun 17 7:19 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 52.92786S 174 28.30387E
Run: 3nm (5.4km)

Haul out done, now in Town Basin Marina, finishing up and about to start provisioning up for the winter. All good. May be a couple more weeks before departure, good thing we have a great heating system.


Tue May 31 8:04 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 50.32131S 174 28.14569E

Still in Marsden Cove Marina. Many projects complete, weather has been wet and windy, most yachts have departed for the warm. We are a couple more weeks then look for a suitable window.


Mon May 23 22:11 2016 NZST
GPS: 35 50.32158S 174 28.14568E
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)

A-TRAIN crew back aboard preparations underway for departure to the tropics. Glad to be back in NZ but it is getting colder.


Fri Nov 27 21:31 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 35 50.188s 174 28.092e
Run: 35nm (63.4km)
Weather: Who cares?

Arrived NZ this am. 5.5 days 1285 miles there abouts. Excellent passage Definitely cooler here Thank YOU David and Patricia for all you do! Wow a flat, still bed tonight with silence and covers too!


Fri Nov 27 6:21 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8-9
knts
GPS: 35 20.699s 174 36.877e
Run: 136.1nm (246.3km)
Avg: 9.3knts
24hr: 224nm
Weather: Wind NE 10 kts, 90% cloud,BAR 1022,dn 2, calm seas

Past Opua 0230 local, 6 hours to Marsden, prety nice passage, could go a while longer! Little bit Colder! All Good on Board


Thu Nov 26 15:46 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8-9
knts
GPS: 33 22.699s 174 28.877e
Run: 33.5nm (60.6km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 111.8nm
Weather: Wind E 5 kts, 50% cloud,BAR 1024,up 2, long swell from SW now

Last 150 miles to NZ, motor sailing still big swell running All Good on Board


Thu Nov 26 8:34 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5-9
knts
GPS: 32 54.944S 174 18.625E
Run: 279.6nm (506.1km)
Avg: 11knts
24hr: 265.2nm
Weather: Wind E 6 kts, 10% cloud,BAR steady 1023.

Underway NZ, Sea cond still good. looong E swell, must be 10 seconds and over 3 m, quite a view from the tops. Ran out of wind last night and have been motor sailing thru the night. Bright moon again last night, could almost read a book by it! [speed]8.5 - 9.0


Wed Nov 25 7:16 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5 - 9.5
knts
GPS: 28 52.944s 173 56.625e
Run: 205.4nm (371.8km)
Avg: 16.1knts
24hr: 386.1nm
Weather: Wind SE 10-12 kts, 30% cloud,BAR steady 1023.

underway NZ, Sea cond very nice now. Mostly sunny wind has held and still great sailing conditions. Full moon last night flying along, might be the best night watch ever!


Tue Nov 24 18:30 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5 - 9.5
knts
GPS: 25 54.699s 173 50.877e
Weather: Wind SE 10-12 kts, 40% cloud,BAR 1023,up 1, Still a little confused sea to 1.5m, but really perfect conditions.

underway NZ, Sea cond pretty nice now, Hot this afternoon and very nice passage conditions. Great sailing. Under full working canvas now and still rockin along low 9"s We'll see how long we can milk the light air stuff. A-TRAIN loves these conditions! Past half way point. All Good on Board One casualty,,,lost orange MOB ring and line to a rouge wave, will report loss to Maritime Radio when we are in VHF range.


Tue Nov 24 9:30 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 25 54.699s 173 50.877e
Run: 127nm (229.9km)
Avg: 9.1knts
24hr: 219.3nm
Weather: Wind SE 10-12 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1022,up 2, a bit squally last night, firmly into the high now. Still a little confused sea to 1.5m, add long period E swell,,,must be something brewing to the East?? Perhaps this is from the TD NE of Fiji.

underway NZ, departed the pass at 3pm Sat. Sea cond pretty nice now, very long E swell rolling in. Its a little bit cooler now! Clothing required! Great sailing. Our report is a bit late as we were just shaking that last reef out now that it is daylight. We'll see how long we can milk the light air stuff. Approx 35 miles to half way point. All Good on Board


Mon Nov 23 19:36 2015 NZDT
Speed:
9.0
knts
GPS: 24 05.699s 174 08.877e
Run: 113.9nm (206.2km)
Avg: 10.4knts
24hr: 249.9nm
Weather: Wind SE 12-14 kts, 10% cloud,BAR 1020,up 2, Confused sea conditions to 2m with occasional big boy rolling thru

underway NZ, departed the pass at 3pm Sat. Sea cond improving, still hot! Great sailing still have one reef in the main and hitting low tens at times. All Good on Board


Mon Nov 23 8:39 2015 NZDT
Speed:
9
knts
GPS: 22 30S 174 36E
Run: 143nm (258.8km)
Avg: 8.9knts
24hr: 213.7nm
Weather: SE16-18, 1.5m confused seas, 1020 up4

great sailing conditions


Sun Nov 22 16:36 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 20 37.699s 175 32.877e
Run: 82.9nm (150km)
Avg: 8.2knts
24hr: 195.7nm
Weather: Wind SE 15-18 kts, 40% cloud,BAR 1018,up 2, Confused sea conditions to 2m with occasional big boy rolling thru

underway NZ, departed the pass at 3pm Sat. Sea cond improving, still hot! All Good on Board


Sun Nov 22 6:26 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 19 33.699s 176 07.877e
Run: 148.4nm (268.6km)
Avg: 3.9knts
24hr: 93.4nm
Weather: Wind SE 18-20 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1015,sdy, Confused sea conditions to 3m

underway NZ, departed the pass at 3pm Sat. Whew rough nite ,we are acclimatized now! All Good on Board


Fri Nov 20 16:17 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 46.20600S 177 22.90382E
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)

Hope to clear out Sat am and head for Whangarei, looks a little bumpy first two days but nice after that,,,here come da salt!


Fri Nov 20 7:28 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 17 46.368s 177 22.941e
Weather: Wind ESE 10-15 kts, 20% cloud,BAR 1010,up 1,E swell 1.5 mtr at 10sec, wind waves .65 mtr

Port Denarau looking at weather for Fri or Mon departure to NZ


Wed Nov 11 14:25 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 46.37065S 177 22.94089E
Run: 18nm (32.6km)
Weather: Overcast cumulus build ups all around wind 10 SE bar 1016.

Arrived Port Denarau. Booked a slip for a week, wow luxury. Always fun to come to Denarau and oogle the super yachts and here is a photo of the newest in modern super yachts. 150 footer from outer space.


No radio coms here so no GHR weather, crap just when we need it most! No net participation either so we will focus on preparing for the passage South. Not really ready to leave the tropics just yet but the seasons rule and time to go. Our good friend David departed today for Auz after a wonderful month of cruising the Yasawas. Ok time to focus on preparations and watching weather.


Mon Nov 9 11:44 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 17 35.23001S 177 11.44788E
Run: 26.4nm (47.8km)
Weather: 10% cloud cover, Bar 1012, wind S 8.0 rippled seas with S W swell.

Spent last night at Navadra Isl. awesome totally secluded, uninhabited tropical island paradise. Very cool! Now enroute to Musket Cove light conditions on the nose of course.


Sun Nov 8 10:14 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 17 12.51825S 177 08.42842E
Run: 3.9nm (7.1km)
Avg: 38.8knts
24hr: 930.8nm
Weather: Part overcast, hot wind se 3-4 motorsailing.

Southbound for Navadra, should be perfect, light conditions still perfect weather.


Sun Nov 8 10:08 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 10.63109S 177 11.42521E
Run: 20nm (36.2km)

Just departd Manta Ray Bay on Naviti Isl. beautiful spot, very rolly last night so we bugged out for some other spot in paradise to the South of us somewhere. Ya I know, so many sunset photos and blue water photos and beach photos etc,,,, but,,, you don't have to shovel it!


Sun Nov 1 22:55 2015 NZDT
GPS: 16 56.57526S 177 22.05641E
Run: 19.4nm (35.1km)
Weather: SE 16 kts 50%cloud cover Bar 1020 warm 30*

After a great visit to Yasawairara Village at the North end of Yasawa Island and enjoying lots of water time in crystal clear waters off Champagne Beach we had a smokin sail South back to Blue Lagoon. Very slowly working back South where we will contemplate looking for a window, reluctantly as we have had the best weather of the season this past two weeks. Fiji can grow on ya! Can we fit in New Cal and delay the cold? Hmmm !


Thu Oct 29 16:32 2015 NZDT
GPS: 16 43.98363S 177 33.6763E
Run: 19.5nm (35.3km)
Weather: Sunny, E 5 to 10kts 32 degrees in the cabin, Bar 1020 up 1.

Anchored Champagne Beach! Saw the anchor hit bottom on white sand no one else for miles NICE!


Sun Oct 25 20:31 2015 NZDT
GPS: 16 56.75144S 177 22.08867E
Run: 58.2nm (105.3km)
Weather: Clear sky wind E 10 Bar 1020.

Back in Blue Lagoon after working our way up the Yasawas. Blistering sailing up wind today, now anchored right on the "E" in the word scale in the photo. Wind was N NE on the outside of the islands all day.


Sat Oct 24 8:51 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 46.29180S 177 11.60490E
Weather: 10% Cloud Cover, Bar 1020 Wind SE 4 kts. HOT!

Currently at the dock at beautiful Musket Cove. Weather has improved dramatically. We are enjoying the resort life here with Auzzie Dave on board. Really like a vacation. Tough to leave a spot like this. Great dinner last night for Gwen's Birthday! Headed for Yasawas next day or so.


Tue Oct 20 8:35 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 46.297S 177 11.608E
Run: 12.8nm (23.2km)
Weather: Sunny wind N 8 to 10 Bar 1018

Moved to Musket Cove Our Auzzie Mate, Dave has arrived and we will head up to the Yasawas hoping for good conditions


Tue Oct 13 9:12 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 45.44626S 177 23.24656E
Run: 1.1nm (2km)

Piracy Report. Our friend Werner on Princess del Mar a Canadian single hander was attacked by Pirates enroute to Singapore. He was rammed by a steel boat causing much damage but managed to escape and arrive Singapore under engine power. More once we have all the facts. Beware South China Sea.


Sun Sep 27 10:54 2015 NZDT
GPS: 17 46.368S 177 22.9813E
Run: 13nm (23.5km)
Weather: 100% cloud, showers in the area, wind East 8 kts bar 1010 steady, 27 C and 80 RH in the cabin this morning. A bit gloomy.

We are berthed in Port Denarau Marina. First marina slip since April. A real tourist hub here. Boat is washed, and tanks all filled head is rebuilt all good. We are positioned in the Super Yacht area with the largest of the largest yachts in the world. Wow the costs of all that goes on aboard these super yachts to keep them, "Super" hard to imagine. M5 photo shows float plane on aft deck, could not fit the yacht in the photo. M5 reportedly the largest single masted yacht in the world. Probably time to go back out cruising next day or so. Met up with more Canadian friends we have not see in a couple of years, definately not sleeping as much. Weather has been overcast with showers and humid for days now, not so nice. Elected to remain here in Fiji a while longer before departing further West and South.


Mon Sep 21 7:24 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 46.457S 177 11.093E
Run: 34.8nm (63km)
Weather: 27 degrees in the cabin, 85% RH, a wee bit sticky. 100% cloud cover, light rain wind 5 West, Bar 1007

Anchored Musket Cove. Wow who knew it was like this over here. The bay is packed. More on this resort and vacay spot once we have been ashore. Certainly met up with many friends we have not seen in a while, what a crossroads this is!


Sat Sep 19 17:41 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 16.58S 177 06.274E
Run: 28.8nm (52.1km)

Anchored in front of Octopus Resort. Wind from South into anchorage, weird. Nice blue water, see the bottom in 60 feet, arrived, had a dip hot showers, Gwen baked marvelous muffins, now going for fresh squid on Outsider. They caught a pail load right at anchor here. Prob have a beer we had a tuna on for a minute but lost it, too bad, would have been good.


Mon Sep 14 7:16 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 56.620S 177 21.952E
Weather: 5% cloud, wind ese 10, bar 1012 steady. A little rolly!

Still in Blue Lagoon, love it, moving South tomorrow nice beaches and swimming here. Head South tomorrow to swim with Manta Rays,


Sat Sep 12 7:52 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 56.620S 177 21.952E
Run: 110nm (199.1km)

Anchord Blue Lagoon, wow nice. Weather 70% cloud cover, 12-15 se bar1011. All good on board!


Thu Sep 3 9:16 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 17 25.52s 178 57.191e
Run: 51.2nm (92.7km)
Weather: Wind S 10 kts, 50% cloud,BAR 1014,down 1,

anchored Makogai Island, finally out of the clouds, all good on board


Mon Aug 24 12:26 2015 NZST
No position sent.
Weather: Heavy rain lst night, 100% cloud, drizzle bar 1010 wind S 5 kts, humidity 80% temp 28C

Finally after a very long month the new refrigeration project is complete! Did it all myself and have a really good idea what is going on now, a great feeling to be a little more independant. We have Very cold stuff in the freezer, the ice cubes sound like broken glass again. Getting things in paradise that we take for granted in the first world can be the ultimate test of endurance, cunning, compromise and patience, but we have persevered once again. Making ready to depart Savusavu in a few days for somewhere sunny. All good on board in Savusavu.


Sat Jul 25 9:28 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.69S 179 19.821E
Run: 3.4nm (6.2km)

Back in Savusavu. Fridge compressor packed up so waiting on a new system to ship from USA. Should be up and running in a couple of more weeks with luck. Going to attempt the removal and install myself so ordered all the refrigeration tools to do so. Should be exciting. Weather has really been off this season in Fiji, lots of cloud and high winds pretty steady but we are in Fiji. Folks here are super nice. All good in Savusavu. The fair is on and a ferris wheel ride might be in the cards.


Wed Jul 8 7:30 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 48.510S 179 17.340E
Run: 3.7nm (6.7km)

The TRAIN has left the Savusavu!

Believe it or not we are underway after a great time in Savusavu. We are traveling in a small Canadian flotila of A-TRAIN, Spirare and Whistler. Headed NE in light easterlies, mostly clear skies Bar 1011 up 2.


Thu Jun 25 7:12 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.67s 179 20.110E

Savusavu, hi overcast wind se 7 kts, bar 1012 up 7 overnight a bit lighter in the west but not much clearing yet. Had a small clear band way west at sunset last night. Hope to depart for Cousteau this afternoon and on to Viani Bay if conditions permit. A long cloudy windy period up here so far. Look forward to breaking away. Sent from my iPad


Fri Jun 19 7:33 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.670s 179 20.110e
Run: 0.3nm (0.5km)
Weather: rain has finally cleared, 16ESE/SE

moving out after the winds drop


Thu Jun 4 12:46 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 16 46.699s 179 19.877e
Weather: Wind SW 5 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1010,sdy, HOT!

The Officials for Quarantine, Biosecurity and Customs were taxied to our boat by the same fellow who led us to the mooring. They were all very nice professionals and overall, the clearance procedures were very relaxed. No confiscation of fruit, veggies or meat....just cannot bring food ashore. We received the invoices for their services and have a week to pay. The Q flag was taken down and we raised the Fijian courtesy flag. Yes!


Thu Jun 4 12:45 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 16 46.699s 179 19.877e
Run: 29.8nm (53.9km)
Avg: 3.3knts
24hr: 79.6nm
Weather: Wind SW 5 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1010,sdy, HOT!

Landed Savusavu! Nice, All Good on Board, glad to be here! Called the Waitui YC and a fellow came out in a small boat and directed us to a mooring buoy. He notified the Officials and we raised our yellow Q Flag.


Thu Jun 4 3:46 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.0
knts
GPS: 17 06.058s 178 62e
Run: 335nm (606.4km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 158.1nm
Weather: Wind NNE 15-18 kts, 60% cloud,BAR 1010,dn 2, wind waves now, ugly several hours beating into 18 to 20 but calmer now on approach, very warm!

20 miles to run at 330 am slowed down for daybreak entrance into harbour but still blowing on the nose!


Tue Jun 2 0:54 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.5-9.5
knts
GPS: 21 56.058s 179 24.621e
Run: 71.1nm (128.7km)
Avg: 9.2knts
24hr: 221.6nm
Weather: Wind ENE 10-15 kts, 20% cloud,BAR 1014,up 1,E swell 1.5 mtr at 10sec, wind waves .65 mtr

Great sailing still, full moon.splendid conditions


Mon Jun 1 17:12 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.5
knts
GPS: 22 57.058s 179 14.621e
Run: 115.6nm (209.2km)
Weather: Wind ESE 10-15 kts, 0% cloud,BAR 1013,down 4,Long E swell 2.5 mtr at 12 sec,

Great sailing,sunny


Mon Jun 1 17:12 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.0
knts
GPS: 24 31.821s 178 38.608e
Run: 27.3nm (49.4km)
Weather: Wind ENE 7-9 kts 30% cloud,BAR 1017, NE swell 2.0 mtr,sloppy

motorsailing,still rolly,increased swell this evening.


Sun May 31 21:46 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.0
knts
GPS: 24 53.257s 178 27.443e
Run: 232nm (419.9km)
Avg: 7.1knts
24hr: 170.4nm
Weather: Wind ENE 7-9 kts 40% cloud,BAR 1017 dwn 1, e swell 1.5 mtr,cross swell from NE, sloppy

still motorsailing a bit rolly,had some good wind for a few hours today but now gone light, full moon like daytine out there !


Sat May 30 13:06 2015 NZST
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 28 09.257s 177 35.443e
Run: 40.5nm (73.3km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 181.1nm
Weather: Wind E 12-16 kts 50% cloud,BAR 1022 dwn 3, Long East swells 2.5 meter small wind waves squalls all around but dry for now.

sailing well, laying down some tracks


Sat May 30 7:43 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.5
knts
GPS: 28 42S 177 21E
Run: 173.9nm (314.8km)
Avg: 8.6knts
24hr: 205.6nm
Weather: 12e, 60%cc, squalls around but mild sea state

front on Tuesday


Fri May 29 11:26 2015 NZST
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 31 09.257s 176 42.443e
Run: 218.9nm (396.2km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 191.7nm
Weather: Wind E 4-6 kts 50% cloud,BAR 1025 stdy, Long East swells 2.5 meter @10sec, must be wind to the east as shown.

motor sailing again after good sailing for a few hours


Thu May 28 8:02 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.0
knts
GPS: 34 13.257s 175 46.022e
Run: 52.8nm (95.6km)
Avg: 7.2knts
24hr: 172.8nm
Weather: Wind W 8-10kts 50% cloud, leftover swells laying down some but coming from all directions, Bar 1023 up 3 past 4 hrs

Departed Wed 27th noonish for Fiji,its a flop-athon, motor sailing


Thu May 28 0:42 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.0
knts
GPS: 34 54.257s 175 21.022e
Run: 61.6nm (111.5km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 178.8nm
Weather: Wind W 8kts rain showers but huge leftover swells from W.& wind waves from ESE Bar 1020 up 12 past 4 hrs

Departed Wed 27th noonish for Fiji,its a flop-athon, motor sailing


Wed May 27 16:26 2015 NZST
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 35 35.257s 174 39.022e
Run: 20.1nm (36.4km)
Weather: Wind W 8kts rain showers but calm sea at 4pm Bar 1008 up 1

Departed Wed 27th noonish for Fiji


Sat May 23 9:00 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 35 50.257s 174 28.022e
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)
Weather: rain but calm at 9am Bar 1005

Marsden Cove Marina looking early next week or Fiji departure.


Fri May 22 23:11 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 49S 174 28E
Run: 4.1nm (7.4km)

Arrived Marsden Cove today; awaiting the next weather window for Fiji.


Tue May 5 10:44 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 35 50.678s 174 31.882e
Run: 1.1nm (2km)
Weather: 12knts ENE 0.0m swell from E 60% cloud cover bar 1028 Steady.

Anchored Urquarts Bay, testing remote post via Winlink Custom, Automated report.


Sun May 3 22:56 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 50S 174 31E
Run: 93.7nm (169.6km)

Anchored Urquharts Bay


Thu Apr 30 12:22 2015 NZST
No position sent.

Sitting out the blow on Waiheke Island, thinking it is time to head North


Thu Nov 27 22:03 2014 NZDT
Weather: sunny and cool in shade, 10 knts in bay this afternoon but calm tonight

anchored in harbour after customs check, then deployed the dinghy for 'Thanksgiving' dinner at the yacht Club....only $20 and delicious.


Thu Nov 27 4:06 2014 NZDT
Speed:
7.8
knts
GPS: 34 34.904s 173 52.792e
Run: 90.4nm (163.6km)
Avg: 8.5knts
24hr: 204.7nm
Weather: 15knts WSW 1.0m swell from W 50% cloud cover bar 1017 up 2.

Only 47 miles to run to Opua, sailing in 12-16 knts.


Wed Nov 26 17:30 2014 NZDT
Speed:
7.5
knts
GPS: 33 18.459s 173 31.311e
Run: 75.4nm (136.5km)
Avg: 15.1knts
24hr: 361.9nm
Weather: 15knts W 1.0m swell from W 50% cloud cover bar 1015 down 3.

En route to Opua, sailing for last 7 hrs. on our first starboard tack since leaving Tongatapu!


Wed Nov 26 12:30 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 32 13.020s 173 28.154e
Run: 132.2nm (239.3km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 158.2nm
Weather: 8.5knts SW .5m swell from SW 10% cloud cover bar 1018 up 1.

En route to Opua, motorsailing in calm seas with a slight swell. Will arrive in Opua some time tomorrow.


Tue Nov 25 16:27 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 30 19.094s 173 44.208e
Run: 77nm (139.4km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 183.3nm
Weather: 6.3knts S 1.0m swell from S 10% cloud cover bar 1017 down 2.

En route to Opua, we were sailing again this morning in 10knts wind at 7.3, confused seas, 100% cloud, pounding a bit due to S. swell, now motorsailing in sun.


Tue Nov 25 6:22 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 29 16.589s 174 11.418e
Run: 102.7nm (185.9km)
Avg: 8.3knts
24hr: 199.8nm
Weather: 9knts S 2.0m swell from SE 10% cloud cover bar 1019 dn 1.

En route to Opua, finally gave up and started to motor had 2 200 mi days in great sailing, huge bank of fog or cloud up ahead


Mon Nov 24 18:02 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 28 00.672s 175 04.701e
Run: 139.4nm (252.3km)
Avg: 7.9knts
24hr: 189.6nm
Weather: 10knts S 1.5m swell from S 10% cloud cover bar 1018 down 2.

En route to Opua, great day sailing, sunny, wind dropped steadily but at 6 pm still 10 knts; close reach, so good speeds 7 to 9 knots. Trying to get new weather report/Grib to see what is happening with the trough over NZ Wed./Thurs. this week....just when we expect to arrive!


Mon Nov 24 0:23 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 26 24.089s 176 26.718e
Run: 77.8nm (140.8km)
Avg: 10.9knts
24hr: 261.8nm
Weather: 19knts SE 2.5m swell from ESE 70% cloud cover bar 1020 up 8.

En route to Opua, rocketing through the black night, squalls up ahead, moving really well but a tough ride, been taking waves overtop pilot house!


Sun Nov 23 17:15 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 25 55.089s 177 34.718e
Run: 207.3nm (375.2km)
Avg: 13.7knts
24hr: 328.4nm
Weather: 16knts SE 2.0m swell from ESE 20% cloud cover bar 1012 down 2.

En route to Opua, rockin' along, multiple swells pushing us around...gotta hang on!


Sun Nov 23 2:06 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.5
knts
GPS: 24 43.643s 179 22.493w
Run: 79.4nm (143.7km)
Weather: 16-20 knts SE 2.5m swell from E with wind waves 80% cloud cover bar 1018 up stdy.

Left Minerva for Opua Saturday morning. Just trucking along average 8 plus so far, boisterous!


Fri Nov 21 7:31 2014 NZDT
GPS: 23 39.643s 178 54.493w
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: 730 am local 20% cloud cover, temp 25, rh 80%, wind 16 kts e, bar. 1018 up 2

Still Anchored, Minerva Reef. Possible departure Saturday for Opua. Only 4 boats left here.


Thu Nov 20 10:45 2014 NZDT
GPS: 23 39.721S 178 54.59W
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: 6knts NE, 10% cloud, 1013 bar, (up 2)..

having too much fun to leave so will depart this weekend with others


Wed Nov 19 16:37 2014 NZDT
No position sent.
Weather: 4knts NE, 10% cloud, 1012 baro

2nd day at Minerva Reef, trying to decide on Thursday or Sunday departure to Opua


Tue Nov 18 17:23 2014 NZDT
GPS: 23 39.643s 178 54.493w
Run: 25.5nm (46.2km)
Weather: 530 pm local 70% cloud cover, temp 30, rh 55%, wind 6 kts e, bar. 1012 down 4,

Anchored, Minerva WOW, hard to describe!!! All well on board, anchored on a mirror!


Tue Nov 18 5:43 2014 NZDT
Speed:
6.5 motorsailing
knts
GPS: 23 21.033s 178 41.446w
Run: 83.3nm (150.8km)
Avg: 10.3knts
24hr: 247.3nm
Weather: 530 am local 50% cloud cover, 6-8 kts se, bar. 1016 up 4, 1 foot chop. smaller swell now sun just breaking

Underway, Minerva 25 mi out, prob stop for one day then boogie on stronger se winds, all well on board


Mon Nov 17 21:38 2014 NZDT
Speed:
6.5 motorsailing
knts
GPS: 22 38.211s 177 38.186w
Run: 65.5nm (118.6km)
Avg: 15.4knts
24hr: 368.4nm
Weather: 930 pm local 60% cloud cover, 6-8 kts se, bar. 1012 down 2, 3m long period e swell 1 foot chop. 5 foot mahi on board.

Underway, Minerva or Opua.


Mon Nov 17 17:22 2014 NZDT
Speed:
7.5
knts
GPS: 22 05.620s 176 47.816w
Run: 123.6nm (223.7km)
Avg: 4.6knts
24hr: 110.3nm
Weather: 40% cloud cover, 8-12 kts se, bar. 1015 up 4, 2m long period e swell 1 foot chop.

Underway, Minerva or Opua.


Sun Nov 16 14:29 2014 NZDT
Speed:
6.2
knts
GPS: 21 03.000s 175 14.155w
Run: 7.1nm (12.9km)
Weather: 8knts SE 1.0m swell from the S 40% cloud cover bar 1010, down 1.0

Departed Tongatapu 1330, motorsailing 7.0knts, course 210 true. Only 3 sail and one power boat left at Big Mama's (3 of them arrived in last day or two).


Sat Nov 15 7:44 2014 NZDT
Speed:
00
knts
Weather: cloud with showers 12 to 15 se. 1012 bar up 2. 12 boats underway now for Minerva we will wait a day or so. Sent from my iPad

anchored


Fri Nov 14 7:54 2014 NZDT
Speed:
00
knts
Weather: 30 yachts still here, a couple departing today and balance of fleet trickling out next few days Sent from my iPad

anchored


Fri Nov 14 7:42 2014 NZDT
Speed:
00
knts
Weather: 26 degrees, wind w 2 gusting 5 mirror sea, 70%cloud, bar 1004 up 1 past 24 hr, pig roast last night at big mamas, excellent! Thanks again. Sent from my iPad

anchored


Thu Nov 13 8:13 2014 NZDT
Speed:
00
knts
Weather: . All well up here, 25 degrees this am, 0.0 kts of wind from 00. Like glass out there. Bar 1012 up 2 10% cloud cover. The fleet looking at the weekend or after to run to the cold. Tongan cooking pot luck last night pig roast tonight. All well in paradise Cheers Russ and Gwen. Sent from my iPad

anchored


Tue Nov 11 20:34 2014 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 21 07.574s 175 09.746w
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: 40% cloud cover, 12-16w, bar. 1001, choppy in anchorage.

Anchored Big Mamas, awaiting weather window for NZ.


Tue Nov 4 8:18 2014 NZDT
GPS: 21 07.5126s 175 09.6931w
Weather: 15-18E

Mon Nov 3 15:46 2014 NZDT
GPS: 21 07.5126s 175 09.6931w

Anchored Nukualofa Tonga'tapu


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