NOVAE

Tue Oct 20 0:00 2015 NZDT
GPS: 33 38.48374S 151 17.11544E
Run: 56.9nm (103km)

Scotland Island, Pittwater near Sydney.

This should have been posted a long time ago, but when you sell your boat, your life gets upside down for many reasons.

That's where the new owners Peter and Debbie live (for the time being), they will move onto NOVAE as they feel comfortable with the life-changing shift.

We are back in Perth trying to adjust to lundlubber's life.... Helen happier than me, looking after the grandchildren (and the children...), I am busy fixing their stuff, building new stuff etc etc.

Adriano has just started designing our new house on the hill, but it will take a long time: design, preliminary approval, construction drawings, building approval, scheduling, subcontracting ..... the list goes on. Will I resist???


Allegra, 2.5yo
Allegra, 2.5yo
Helen and Armi
Helen and Armi
Tue Oct 13 0:00 2015 NZDT
GPS: 32 55.302S 151 45.743E
Run: 90.7nm (164.2km)

Newcastle AU, On the "T" of B jetty


Mon Oct 12 8:55 2015 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
Weather: 7.5knts E, 1m swell from the N, 80% cloud cover.

We are in Australia! What a ride we had, all the time trying to slow down.

This morning we were doing 9kn with 1/3 Genoa only.... great weather! We anchored in a beautiful bay in Broughton Island, had a swim, sunbathed a little and started to cook all our left over veggie, mushrooms etc.

A huge thunderstorm came over us, I put the lightning dissipator in the water and watched it come through, the wind went from 10 to 38kn, deafening thunders and scary lightning, sprays where lifting from the water and being swept away, all within 3 min.

The forecast did say "chance" of a thunderstorm, but I wish I had let more chain out to begin with....


Mon Oct 12 8:55 2015 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
No position sent.
Weather: 7.5knts E, 1m swell from the N, 80% cloud cover.

Had a pleasant, restful night. Now motor sailing in light winds towards Newcastle, will be in our berth by midday.


Sun Oct 11 8:01 2015 NZDT
Speed:
8.5 kn
knts
GPS: 32 13.22s 153 04.77e
Run: 190.1nm (344.1km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 190.9nm
Weather: 27knts NE 2.5m swell from the NE 20% cloud cover.

0600, 80M from Newcastle. Had a great sail yesterday and a bit of a bumpy night as the wind increased to 25~28kn. Looking forward to the last of the lasagna and a glass of wine tonight. 168 mile day. Currently sailing with 2 reefs and 10% Genoa to slow down both for comfort and to arrive Mon am.


Sat Oct 10 8:07 2015 NZDT
Speed:
4 kn
knts
GPS: 30 39.5s 155 44e
Run: 137.8nm (249.4km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 138.2nm
Weather: 16knts ENE 2m swell from the SE 100% cloud cover. 1038??, still rising.

240M to Newcastle. Had a bit of a dull day, the seas where still up to 3.5m in the morning, down to around 2m later, but we had light winds all day motored a bit, mainly to make power under the clouds. 132 mile day. n Genoa only at the moment, but hoisting the main at sunrise.


Fri Oct 9 8:11 2015 NZDT
Speed:
6.8kn
knts
GPS: 29 26s 157 33e
Run: 202.3nm (366.2km)
Avg: 8.4knts
24hr: 202.3nm
Weather: 21knts NE 3.5m swell from the SE 100% cloud cover.

Had a wild night, with gusts to 33kn and rainy squalls. 3 reefs and 1/3 genoa. 180mile day. 360 miles to go.


Thu Oct 8 8:11 2015 NZDT
Speed:
6.4
knts
GPS: 27 28S 160 01E
Run: 151.2nm (273.7km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151nm
Weather: 20knts SSE 1.5m swell from the S 80% cloud cover.

Had one of the best sailing days, under Genoa only with winds around 15kn all day clear sky and slight seas. Slowing down so as to arrive on Monday am. 131NM day


Wed Oct 7 8:09 2015 NZDT
Speed:
6.1
knts
GPS: 25 59S 161 49E
Run: 212.9nm (385.3km)
Avg: 8.9knts
24hr: 212.5nm
Weather: 13knts ESE, 1.5m swell from the S, 100% cloud cover, 1031mb?? rising.

Had a pleasant night, with mostly SSE winds of 18~22kn. 186 mile day.

Taken the main down as it was swaying too much in the light wind.


Tue Oct 6 8:06 2015 NZDT
Speed:
7.3
knts
GPS: 23 32.30S 163 52.85E
Run: 184nm (333km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 139.4nm
Weather: 15knts SE 1.5m swell from the SE 80% cloud cover.

Had a blast out of Noumea!!! At 20:00 yesterday we had been underway for 10h and we traveled 92NM, that's an average of 9.2kn. We touched 15.4 at some stage.

The wind has been 18~22 all day, we keep the apparent to 80º, the swell is below 2m, 1 reef on the main and half a Genoa.

We then took another reef and traveled the night slower for comfort.

Nice sunrise through the clouds calmer sea and lighter wind this morning.


Mon Oct 5 0:25 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 17.1488s 166 25.912e
Run: 0.8nm (1.4km)
Weather: 16knts SE 0m swell, 50% cloud cover.

Left the marina and now in the Noumea anchorage area.

Tomorrow morning after immigration we will leave, probably 0900.

The weather to Newcastle looks better than yesterday, actually it has been getting better for the last three days....strange, but nice!!


Sat Oct 3 8:54 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 16.59s 166 26.38e
Run: 26.9nm (48.7km)

In Noumea, Port Moselle Marina. Helen is leaving tomorrow for Perth by plane, I am planning to sail away on Monday 5th AM, should be in Newcastle on Monday 12th. Cannot hear GHR from the marina.


Thu Oct 1 8:39 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 22 26.7252S 166 49.1612E
Run: 42.2nm (76.4km)
Weather: 10knts SE 10% cloud cover.

Port Koube in Ouen Island, New Cal. Very calm anchorage with no signs of civilization. Going to Noumea today to get ready for the passage to Au, probably leave on Mon 5th.


Wed Sep 30 8:39 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 39.43044s 167 26.37486e
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: blue sky no wind, baro is reading high at 1023

departing for Newcastle on Monday


Fri Sep 25 6:58 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 39.476S 167 26.495E
Run: 42.7nm (77.3km)
Weather: Wind SW 14kn, 0.4m waves from SW, 60% cloud cover. 1018mb rising.

Kuto Bay, Ile Des Pins. Great bay in the most sought after island of New Caledonia. Normally very calm, but we had a somewhat rolly night as the winds were from WSW. Turning SW now.


Kuto Bay, Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia
Nice sunset at Kuto Bay, Ile Des Pins, New Caledonia
Thu Sep 24 7:04 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 27.89s 166 48.35e
Run: 21.8nm (39.5km)
Weather: 8knts N, 0m swell, 80% cloud cover.

Port Kouture, Southern Lagoon, New Caledonia.

Had to motor most of the way in light wind from Ile Amedee, but not before having another wonderful dive, this time on the wreck of the Thoho5, a fishing vessel sunk by the authority for diver's enjoyment (~ 22 28.9S - 166 26.6E).

You can see the holes cut above waterline to facilitate sinking and the explosive holes under the waterline to start it sinking on an even keel in 25m of water. One can dive into the wheelhouse, engine room and the accommodation, disturbing huge fish, not afraid of human as fishing is forbidden in the nature reserve.

The sun was high, no wind, no swell, 25~30m visibility: it doesn't came much better than this!!! Port Kouture is a very quite anchorage protected by high hills on N and E and an extensive reef elsewhere, a good overnight stop on the way to the Ile des Pins


Wed Sep 23 7:48 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 28.56s 166 27.85e
Weather: 6knts NNE 05m swell from the NE sunny.

Still Ile Amedee, near Noumea.

Yesterday had a great dive on the wreck of 'La Dieppoise' an ex patrol ship scuttled here in 1988.

After 33 years underwater, the wooden hull has completely disintegrated to leave a perfect view into the interior of the ship and the aluminium structure guarantees it will hold well against oxydation, for both the pleasure and safety of the divers. Fish everywere and the vis was great! Pos: 22º 29 S and 166º 26.39 E, there is a buoy to tie the dinghy.


Tue Sep 22 7:17 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 28.56s 166 27.85e
Weather: 8knts SE 20% cloud cover.

Still at anchor behind Ile Amedee, near Noumea. Had a dive yesterday on the reef, tried to find a wreck, but couldn't. Will try again today.

Waiting for the first opportunity to make the final jump to Newcastle, Oz


Mon Sep 21 10:08 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 28.56s 166 27.85e
Run: 48.9nm (88.5km)
Weather: 16knts SE 90% cloud cover.

at anchor behind Ile Amedee, a small island with the tallest lighthouse in NC. Built out of iron in France and shipped here in the 1800, similarly as the Eiffel Tower. Looking forward to go diving with Hugh from Scotia on the two wrecks nearby and the great coral reef on the outer pass and everywhere around here.


Tue Sep 15 7:33 2015 NZST
GPS: 22 05S 167 06E
Run: 126nm (228.1km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 153nm
Weather: Se15, 50%cc, rain, 1m swell

approaching grande terre, New Cal


Mon Sep 14 11:48 2015 NZST
Speed:
7.0Kn
knts
GPS: 20 20.2S 167 39.7e
Run: 131.7nm (238.4km)
Weather: 18kn from 165º T, 1.5m swell from the SE, 90% cloud cover.

On our way to Noumea. Left Port Vila yesterday 0900 and been bashed about for several hours in a choppy confused sea up to 2.5m high. The wind has been ESE at first and managed to put a lot of South in our route, but we lost it overnight as the wind shifted S.

Our course is now taking us N of the rumb line.


Thu Aug 13 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 19 31.60S 169 29.80E
Run: 15.1nm (27.3km)
Weather: SSE 10kn.

Port Resolution is a nice shallow harbour, 4m sandy bottom. A little rolly, but acceptable.

there is a resort that calls themselves 'Point Resolution yacht Club' they have a club house reminiscent of Big Mama, Tonga, just smaller.

We had dinner there last night and after all arrangements made to have 1 vegan curry and three fish dinners, we got 1 boiled veggies and rice and 3 omelets and rice.......


From the anchorage we can hear the volcano puffing every now and then and at night we can see the glow.

We booked a tour and were herded in a small pick up truck with another 9 people, 13 in total. Because we booked first, our two Helens sat in the cab, the other 11 of us were jammed together in the tray at the back, it was grueling, but the walk on the volcano rim was great!

It was rumbling all the time and every 10' or so it would blow and spew red lava up into the sky, occasionally 100m or so.


Tanna was hit hard by the cyclone and you can still see the damage everywhere, the people are coping with it, they are used to this.

They say that the aids are not filtering through the government tangled web, but I get the impression that they play on that and keep asking for small gifts etc.

I visited the village and school and found a lot of dirt, people seem to not care and just lay around doing nothing.

I did not see anybody working hard to rebuild anything except for some old women weaving roof covers.

I get the feeling that they just wait and ask for aid, similarly to people on welfare that like to 'get' without 'deserving'.

Regardless, we have given away a lot of staples and a few treats and in return got lots of drinking coconuts, a three green tomatoes and a sweet potato.


Will leave tomorrow AM for Port Vila, should be a 22h passage.


Mount Yasur is an easily accessible active volcano
Mount Yasur is an easily accessible active volcano
Port Resolution yacht Club
Port Resolution yacht Club
Villager weaving coconut roof cover
Villager weaving coconut roof cover
Tue Aug 11 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 19 32.06S 169 15.92E
Run: 164nm (296.8km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 157.4nm

Lenakel, Tanna Is, Vanuatu.

Checking in was easy and quick, customs and immigration are in the same building, 100m from the beach where you live the dinghy.

No sealed roads, no ATM, no market, just a few shops full of cans of mackerel.... people are all nice.

Tanna was hard hit by cyclone Pam in March and the devastation is still visible.


Novae in Lenakel harbour
Novae in Lenakel harbour
Sun Aug 9 23:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 18 35.2s 171 34.0e
Run: 192.7nm (348.8km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 192.7nm

140M from destination.

Had a better night with SSE up to 20kn. Sailing with the wind at 50º apparent averaging 7.5kn. Enjoyed the Pad Thai better than the pesto pasta of last night....

Passed a boat at 03:30 who did'n answer radio calls.

Great Pacific sunrise, blue skies with some puffs of pure white clouds.


Sat Aug 8 23:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 34s 174 17.8E
Run: 207.2nm (375km)

On our way to Lenakel, Tanna Is, Vanuatu, the Volcano Island.

Left Fiji yesterday 1030 and had a bumpy ride all day and night with SSE winds between 25~30kn.

Better condition today with seas calming down to an acceptable level.


Tue Aug 4 22:38 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 36.03S 177 26.5E
Run: 33nm (59.7km)

Lautoka. Second biggest city in Fiji. The sugar cane capital of the Pacific. Going sightseeing tomorrow then stocking up before leaving for Lenakel on the island of Tanna, Vanuatu on Friday 7th Aug.


Sugar vane trucks
Sugar cane trucks waiting in line to deliver their goods.
Thu Jul 30 10:24 2015 NZST
GPS: 18 03.19S 177 17.04E
Run: 9.3nm (16.8km)
Weather: ESE 22~25kn, 70% cloud cover

Robinson Crusoe Is.

Enjoyed a great cultural show last night! Highly recommended to all cruising this way.

Wednesday and Saturday nights only. $25 includes dinner and show, great value.


Robinson Crusoe Island, Viti Levu, Fiji - Cultural show.
The Cultural show on Robinson Crusoe Island, is considered the best in Fiji.
Wed Jul 29 7:28 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 17 55.1185S 177 16.2097E
Run: 77.3nm (139.9km)
Weather: 9knts E, clear sky 20º

Momi bay, SW Viti Levu. This is a very quiet bay, a welcome change from the "Hollywood" of Port Denarau where we spent a couple of days waiting for our friends Chris and Helen from Perth.

After breakfast we will sail to Robinson Crusoe Island to watch the best Pacific Island Cultural show, with fire dancing and food cooked underground.


Wed Jul 15 7:56 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 18 07.2992S 178 25.5825E
Run: 210.6nm (381.2km)
Avg: 324knts
24hr: 7776nm
Weather: 10knts E 0m swell 100% cloud cover, drizzly

In Suva harbour close to the Royal Suva Yacht Club. Had a fast trip from Fulaga with 25kn winds from SE gusting to 30kn, up to 3.5m sea. Had a guest: Lai, the chief's daughter, that is flying back to the USA, if I hadn't given her a lift, she would have had to endure a 4 days ferry trip, sleeping on the floor....


Wed Jul 15 7:17 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 19 07.863s 178 32.351w
Run: 2.2nm (4km)
Weather: 12knts N 50% cloud cover.

Fulaga, near pass, nice snorkeling and incredible landscape, small beaches and dozens of motus scattered in a calm lagoon. Going for dinner at the village tonight.


Fri Jul 10 7:24 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 08.9250S 178 34.0030W
Run: 0.3nm (0.5km)
Weather: 12knts SE, 100% cloud cover, drizzly.

Fulaga, near road to village. Had dinner at our host's house followed by lots of grog (kava), walked back to boat in the dark drizzly weather. Today if the sun comes up, will go for a dive on the pass.


Tue Jul 7 7:11 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 09.0112s 178 33.7557w
Weather: 8knts E 100% cloud cover.

Fulaga is amazing!! We had a good sail to get here, but this place is worth 3 days of beating!! It will remain in my memories as one of the top (if not the top) cruising destinations.

Yesterday we had Sevusevu with 7 other boats!! We were allocated a host family, Salotte and her husband Mini the carver, very nice people, then we drank kava with the chief (who being old, doesn't drink it any longer....) and a few other top ranking villagers.

It has been raining, so that has hampered our exploration, we are looking forward to some sunshine, but it's overcast..


Mon Jul 6 9:11 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 09.0112s 178 33.7557w
Run: 33.3nm (60.3km)
Weather: 10knts SE 0m swell 80% cloud cover, but it looks like it will clear.......

Anchored in the Fulaga lagoon, S Lau. Had a great sail from Taveuni mostly with winds on 60º apparent. This is a magnificent very protected place definitely worth the long sail. Loking forward to our introduction to the village chief this morning at 10:00.


Sun Jul 5 7:39 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.0
knts
GPS: 18 43.00s 178 47.00w
Run: 178.3nm (322.7km)
Weather: 11knts NE 0.75m swell from the E 100% cloud cover with the occasional drizzle.

En route to Fulaga in the Southern Lau, 30M to go. Had a great start of the trip with ENE wind 15~20kn all day yesterday sailing at 8~9kn. The wind died at 4am and been motoring ever since. Currently picking up, so will hoist sails again.


Wed Jun 10 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 06.765S 179 05.548E
Run: 14.1nm (25.5km)

Namena Island National Park. Nice snorkeling along the island and great scuba on the outer reef. Thousands of birds nesting in the trees.

This is a private island and the resort charges FJD 15 for a 4h walk permit! However once you paid the National Park fee of FJD30, you can dive and snorkel around for 1y.


Giant clam near the shore.
Giant clam near the shore.
Mon Jun 8 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 55.46S 179 00.69E
Run: 23.5nm (42.5km)

Back in Navatu to see our friend Chief Lepani


Chief Lepani and two of his grandchildren.
Chief Lepani and two of his grandchildren.
Sat Jun 6 18:35 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.66S 179 19.97E
Run: 58.7nm (106.2km)

Back in Savusavu for provisioning and picking up friends on honey moon. Leaving Mon eastwards.


Tue Jun 2 17:33 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 45.843S 179 46.823W
Run: 21.2nm (38.4km)
Weather: Cloudy and rainy

Naiviivi bay is a beautiful long bay, very well protected from all winds. Mangroves everywhere, soft mud bottom.

Arrived just before sunset, relaxing with a beer and looking forward to kayaking in the morning.


Tue Jun 2 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 44.80s 179 54.00e
Run: 11.4nm (20.6km)

Viani bay is a beautiful protected anchorage. Snorkeling and diving on the Rainbow reef is not to be missed!!!!.


The Rainbow reef
The Rainbow reef
Fri May 29 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 43.53s 179 43.74e
Run: 77nm (139.4km)

Fawn harbour is a very protected anchorage with several Caucasian settlers, nice locals and hot springs. Good sandy anchorage and plenty of reef.


Fawn Harbour
Fawn Harbour
Mon May 25 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 52.06s 178 34.50e
Run: 29.1nm (52.7km)

Mbua. A nice big anchorage on the West coast. Cought up with Wendy and Ian from 'Outsider' whom we had not seen since Vava'u, great raw tuna dinner!!


Sat May 23 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 55.46s 179 00.69e
Run: 23.6nm (42.7km)

Navatu. Chief Lepaniqio came on board, asked for A3 batteries, given 4. Wants us to go see his village next time, as we did Sevusevu in other village just north of his. The inlet is surrounded with thick mangroves and makes for great kayaking, nice snorkeling on the outer reef.


Fri May 15 7:17 2015 NZST
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 16 46.64s 179 20e
Run: 11nm (19.9km)
Weather: Calm, clear skies, 25ºc at 7am.

On a mooring ball in Savusavu. Clearing was pleasant and easy, no problems with any of the officials. Had a walk ashore and lunch at the Yacht club. Nice friendly atmosphere, we are happy to be here.


Thu May 14 7:07 2015 NZST
Speed:
8.0kn
knts
GPS: 16 56s 179 22e
Run: 11nm (19.9km)
Weather: 22knts ESE 2.0m swell from the ESE 10% cloud cover.

We blasted through the Koro Sea at an average 8.5kn with a top speed of 16.2. Fiji certainly gave us a great welcome!! Will be in Savusavu around 08:30.


Thu May 14 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.64s 179 20.03e
Run: 220.4nm (398.9km)
Avg: 13knts
24hr: 312.4nm

Savusavu. Cleared customs and immigration. Nice town 3 banks, several shops and a good fresh produce market.


Wed May 13 7:04 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.3
knts
GPS: 19 52s 179 50W
Run: 157nm (284.2km)
Avg: 6.5knts
24hr: 155nm
Weather: 16knts SSE 2.0m swell from the SSE 80% cloud cover.

Had a nice night under Code0 with wind from the SSE between 13~16kn. 140mile day.


Tue May 12 6:45 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.5 kn
knts
GPS: 22 00S 179 00W
Run: 111.9nm (202.5km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 113.9nm
Weather: 13knts SSE 1.5m swell from the SSE 80% cloud cover.

Had a nice 10~12kn Sly breeze most of yesterday which died about 2am so motored for a few h. Breeze was back around 0500 and we got sailing again, albeit rather slow, better than the bashing we had on the way to Minerva though!!!.

At sunrise we hoisted the Code0 and now we are sailing wing-on-wing Code0 and Genoa at 6.5kn. 150mile day.


Mon May 11 7:10 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 36.97s 178 54.43w
Run: 1.4nm (2.5km)
Weather: 16knts S (190ºT) 80% cloud cover.

Had a pleasant night at Minerva reef, the wind shifted to S last night while we were watching a movie and it has remained Southerly, will leave for Suvasavu soon


Fri May 8 11:22 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 38s 178 53.7w
Run: 145.9nm (264.1km)
Avg: 5.4knts
24hr: 129.4nm
Weather: 18knts ENE 2.5m swell (out of the reef, calm inside) from the ENE, 80% cloud cover.

Motorsailed on Genoa only during the day and motored all night against headwinds and waves, but got into Minerva North reef ok. 12 boats here and more on their way, party time.....

Plenning to leave for Savusavu on Monday.


Fri May 8 7:36 2015 NZST
No position sent.
Weather: 100%cc, rain, ENE18

9m from Minerva


Thu May 7 8:18 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.7
knts
GPS: 25 09S 179 29.5e
Run: 153.8nm (278.4km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 147.5nm
Weather: 25knts ENE 3.5m swell from the E 80% cloud cover.

Yesterday morning the main halyard chafed through at the masthead and the main came down, no major drama, we zipped it away, but then, we only had the furled genoa and with winds gusting to 33kn I was no game to unfurl it all the way. We are now going slower and not able to point less then 45º to the wind. We will have to motor perhaps a day to get into Minerva.

Another day we all want to forget, 140mile day.


Wed May 6 7:16 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 27 17s 178 47e
Run: 178.1nm (322.4km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 181nm
Weather: 25knts NE 3.5m swell from the e 90% cloud cover.

Had another rough night, with light winds to 26kn and rough sea, looking forward to the end of it. Had to alter course 10ºN as we were bouncing into the 3.5m smell too hard. We will make to Minerva reef on this heading and might consider proceeding to Fiji.


Tue May 5 7:38 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 29 46S 178 0E
Run: 2.3nm (4.2km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 114.4nm
Weather: 20-22ene

Tue May 5 7:10 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.2
knts
GPS: 29 48s 178 00e
Run: 151.4nm (274km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 153.9nm
Weather: 23knts E 3.5m swell from the E 5% cloud cover.

Had an unpleasant night, bouncing around and with every second wave over the deck! Sailed with three reef on the main and 1/2 genoa. still doing an average 6.2Kn.


Mon May 4 7:33 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 31 51S 177 06E
Run: 163.6nm (296.1km)
Avg: 6.7knts
24hr: 160.9nm
Weather: 18-20ene, 1.5m swell

good radio signal and thanks for relay


Sun May 3 7:10 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.2
knts
GPS: 34 05s 176 10e
Run: 143.7nm (260.1km)
Avg: 4.6knts
24hr: 110.7nm
Weather: 6knts E 0.5m swell from the SE, 10% cloud cover.

Had a pleasant night in light E winds, not hoisted the sails yet.... 150mile day.


Sat May 2 0:00 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 18.90s 174 07.80e
Run: 86.4nm (156.4km)

Getting ready to leave Opua, New Zealand bound for Minerva Reef, then Fiji. Customs first, then fuel, then GO!!! date: 02/05/2015


Tue Nov 25 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 36 25.55s 174 50.22e
Run: 27.1nm (49.1km)

Relaxing, again, in a little bay on the island of Kawau (sounds Hawaiian doesn't it? Might stay a couple of days if the weather clear.... been cloudy for days now!!


Mon Nov 24 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 036 05.22s 174 35.48e
Run: 18.6nm (33.7km)

Mangawhai Harbour. Nice holiday settlement with shops, tavern etc. Beautiful sandy beaches either side of the inlet. Shallow sand bank at the entry can break in SW seas.


Tue Nov 18 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 35 50.23S 174 28.098E
Run: 34.8nm (63km)

Marsden Cove Marina. Lovely , well kept marina run by friendly and helpful people. Not much to do here, just one cafe shop. Whangarei is 30km by car or 11NM by boat, all facilities there, including Bunnings, gas fitters, all marine chandlers and refitters.


Sun Nov 16 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 35 20.54s 174 21.18e
Run: 10.7nm (19.4km)

Anchored in Bland bay, nice long beach with cottages and a caravan park. Will leave early tomorrow morning to go to Whangarei.


Sat Nov 15 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 35 13.18S 174 14.30E
Run: 7.3nm (13.2km)

Anchored in Urupukapuka Bay. This island is controlled by the Dpt of Coservation and has excellent walking track all around. We walked up a couple of hills and enjoyed great views over the Bay of Islands.

Allegedly there are scallops in Albert Channel


Fri Nov 14 11:36 2014 NZDT
Speed:
0.0
knts
GPS: 35 16.33s 174 07.57e
Run: 3.1nm (5.6km)
Weather: 20knts SSW 0.5m swell from the SW 80% cloud cover.

Spent yesterday at anchor in Paihia, had gusts of 32kn, rain squalls and we were cold!!! When is the spring/summer coming to this beautiful Bay of Islands? Today we are on a mooring in Russell, the historical first Capital of NZ. Looking forward to go for a walk and coffee in town.


Wed Nov 5 12:50 2014 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 35 19S 174 07E
Weather: 0

In Opua Marina, North Island. We cleared customs and immigration quickly yesterday and are now enjoying the NZ cold weather..... It will get better! We went out for lunch and dinner and greatly enjoyed both as well as the warm NZ hospitality. Spent all morning cleaning the boat and now looking forward to some ralaxation and island exploring.


Mon Nov 3 22:27 2014 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 35 19S 174 07E
Run: 99.2nm (179.6km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 163.6nm
Weather: 4kn

We are in the Q dock waiting for clearance tomorrow morning.


Mon Nov 3 8:23 2014 NZDT
No position sent.
Weather: NW 25, cloudy, no rain

84 to Opua at net time. Good radio


Mon Nov 3 7:54 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.2
knts
GPS: 33 57S 174 39E
Run: 166.2nm (300.8km)
Avg: 7.5knts
24hr: 180.9nm
Weather: 23knts NE 2.5m swell from the NW 80% cloud cover.

Had a bumpy night, with increasing NW winds, finally sailing straight towards Opua with two reefs, will arrive later this afternoon


Sun Nov 2 9:51 2014 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 31 46s 175 51e
Run: 174nm (314.9km)
Avg: 6.7knts
24hr: 160.9nm
Weather: 6knts NNE 2.5m swell from the S 200% cloud cover.

Another 24h with the motor running, occasionally motor-sailing. 238M to Opua.


Sat Nov 1 7:54 2014 NZDT
Speed:
4.5
knts
GPS: 29 43S 177 33E
Run: 152.1nm (275.3km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 150.9nm
Weather: 10kn @ 179T 3.5m swell from the S 90% cloud cover.

Motored last 24h in light winds from SE, S and SW, in a big slow rolling sea. Only averaging 5.4kn. A real pain. Still on schedule to arriva Mon 3rd if we get some wind, but all my GRIBs show is light wind, including Monday???


Fri Oct 31 7:43 2014 NZDT
Speed:
6.5
knts
GPS: 27 54S 178 58e
Run: 177.8nm (321.8km)
Avg: 7.3knts
24hr: 175nm
Weather: 9knts NE 1m swell from the SW 30% cloud cover.

Motor sailed all night in light winds, 150mile day.


Thu Oct 30 7:20 2014 NZDT
Speed:
5.8
knts
GPS: 25 30S 179 59.68W
Run: 145.5nm (263.4km)
Avg: 6.7knts
24hr: 160.3nm
Weather: 8kn NNW 0.5m swell from the S 10% cloud cover.

Currently about 130M from Minerva Reef. Had a pleasant night, with mostly light winds, motored for the last 4h.


Wed Oct 29 9:33 2014 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 38.93s 178 53.49w
Run: 1.5nm (2.7km)
Weather: 12kn E, sunny.

Minerva Reef!!! Had a very pleasant sail yesterday cruising at 7 to 8 kn, Slowed down to 4 overnight to arrive at daybreak. Had a swim in the cold (21º) waters and now getting ready to set sail again for Opua, NZ as the weather is favourable.


Wed Oct 29 8:56 2014 NZDT
GPS: 23 39.721S 178 54.59W
Run: 99.3nm (179.7km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 114.9nm
Weather: lovely day

stopped for breakfast but will leave today as the weather window is good for NZ . will leave with 12 other boats so plenty of company!


Tue Oct 28 12:12 2014 NZDT
GPS: 22 46.358s 177 40.88W
Run: 157nm (284.2km)
Avg: 3140knts
24hr: 75360nm

Corrected position update


Tue Oct 28 12:09 2014 NZDT
Speed:
7
knts
GPS: 21 34.567s 175 35.778w
Weather: 17kt SE 1.5m swell from the NE 5% cloud cover, finally!!!

Had a pleasant night, with moderate winds 16~20kn and just a couple of gusts to 24 & 26kn. 1 reef in the main. 180mile day.


Mon Oct 27 12:11 2014 NZDT
Speed:
8.0
knts
GPS: 21 34.567s 175 35.778w
Run: 41.8nm (75.7km)
Weather: 15~29knts ESE, little swell in the lee of Tongatapu N 80% cloud cover.

Just left Tongatapu form Minerva Reef. Will slow down to get to Minerva around 11am on Wednesday.


Fri Oct 24 16:45 2014 NZDT
GPS: 21 07.70S 175 09.53W
Run: 51.1nm (92.5km)

In Nuku'olefa wqaiting for the right opportunity to set sail to NA!!


Tue Oct 21 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 20 30.14S 174 44.33W
Run: 18nm (32.6km)

We enjoyed Kelefesia, beautiful cliffs, sand bar and forest full of birds. Great snorkeling all around with coral towers and ledges, mostly live coral.


Mon Oct 20 9:58 2014 NZDT
GPS: 20 15.08s 174 48.60w
Weather: 10ESE, 80%cc,

in hapaais and soon off to Tongatapu for clearance to NZ


Mon Oct 20 0:00 2014 NZDT
GPS: 20 15.08s 174 48.60w

Anchored on SW corner of Nomuka Is, in the lower Hapai group of Tonga.

Good holding in 16m sand with the occasional coral boulder. Rolly anchorage, nice snorkeling.


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