Second Wind

Tue Oct 20 13:36 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 06.451N 122 46.695W
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)
Weather: Wind NW 15k. Sea n/a (we?re on land). Baro 1022, a decrease of 4 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 95%.

We are now hauled out in the Port Townsend boatyard. We?ll be living on the hard until the end of the year, working on some major cosmetic improvements to Second Wind prior to selling her.

This will be our final YIT post, since the site will be shut down in December. We want to thank all our friends and family for following our travels. Deep appreciation also goes to Mike at YIT, who faithfully maintained this invaluable service. Fair winds!


Mon Oct 19 13:09 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 06.381N 122 46.482W
Run: 0.6nm (1.1km)
Weather: Wind calm. Sea flat. Baro 1027, a decrease of 5 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with occasional showers.

We moved back into the PT marina to facilitate offloading and cleanup. After we moved we realized, with some sadness, that we will probably spend no more nights at anchor.


Sun Oct 18 15:30 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 06.582N 122 45.727W
Run: 28.7nm (51.9km)
Weather: Wind WSW 10k. Sea WSW 0.2 m. Baro 1032, an increase of 25 mb since yesterday morning. Cloud 20%.

Despite strong winds curtailing our outdoor activities, we had a good time in Anacortes. After the winds eased we rode the currents back to Port Townsend, and will be offloading large items like sails and dinghy (prepping for projects and for the NW winter).


Fri Oct 9 14:45 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 30.751N 122 36.479W
Run: 7.6nm (13.8km)
Weather: Wind NW 10k. Sea NW 0.3m. Baro 1013, a decrease of 9 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with fog, thinning near land.

Yesterday evening we symbolically closed the circle on our 6 year journey, returning to our home port of Anacortes. We entered Cap Sante Marina, our boat home for 20 years, with all of our country flags flying, and were greeted at the dock by Katelinn and Camden with signal horns and spraying champagne! An appropriately emotional homecoming.


Thu Oct 8 4:24 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 36.129N 122 42.149W
Run: 12.7nm (23km)
Weather: Wind NW 10k. Sea low chop. Baro 1022, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with fog.

Tonight we?re on a mooring buoy at Cypress Island, another favorite spot because of the hike to Eagle Cliff.


Wed Oct 7 15:24 2020 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 25.978N 122 48.513W
Run: 26.5nm (48km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea calm. Baro 1025 and steady. Cloud 100% with fog.

After several days anchored outside the breakwater at Port Townsend again, we are making our way toward our home port of Anacortes.

We?re at lovely Watmough Bay, one of our favorite anchorages from years gone by.


Fri Sep 25 12:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 03.441N 122 41.892W
Run: 4.8nm (8.7km)
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea rippled. Baro 1015 and volatile (down 14mb yesterday, up 10mb today). Cloud 100%.

We moved to Port Hadlock two days ago to be in a better position for strong incoming southerlies. That anchorage did not feel as secure as we?d hoped. Thanks to a generous acquaintance, we are now on a beefy mooring in Mystery Bay (Marrowstone Island). 35k gusts are predicted again for tonight, but we hope to sleep better this time.


Sat Sep 19 5:51 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 06.192N 122 46.576W
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea flat. Baro 1015, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with thick fog.

We?re anchored outside the Port Townsend Boat Haven, giving us access to Katelinn while she?s there aboard the schooner Adventuress.


Sun Sep 13 15:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 06.381N 122 46.482W
Run: 120.4nm (217.9km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea rippled, though there were tidal rips off of Point Wilson. Baro 1016, a decrease of 5 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with fog.

Second Wind is back in Washington after her six year adventure! Katelinn welcomed us to the dock at Port Townsend. We?ll be here a few days, after that TBD. By early October we will complete the journey by returning to our home port of Anacortes.


Thu Sep 10 15:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 48 54.511N 125 06.583W
Run: 160.7nm (290.9km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 139.7nm
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea rippled over low SE swell. Baro 1018, a decrease of 11 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 0%.

We?re anchored at Marble Cove in Barkley Sound, 280 miles from our previous anchorage. 36 hours of predicted wind turned out to be just 12 so we ended up using more fuel than we planned, but we?re still glad we chose this route. We wanted to be on the wild side, and Barkley Sound has many special memories for our family. We?ll rest here tomorrow then probably head to Washington without another stop.


Wed Sep 9 12:03 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 50 06.62N 128 10.50W
Run: 97nm (175.6km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea calm over low NW swell. Baro 1029 mb and steady. Cloud 0%.

Since we're sailors we opted for sailing, and went down the west coast of Vancouver Island. We had a great overnight run last night; it felt wonderful to be back in some wind and swells. Unfortunately, the predicted N20k for today did not materialize, so the giddiness was shortlived. We're now motoring again! On the bright side, we found summer. We haven't been this warm, or seen a big blue sky or stars at night, since late May.


Mon Sep 7 14:36 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 51 29.333N 127 45.505W
Run: 39.7nm (71.9km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea rippled. Baro 1032 mb, steadily increasing. Cloud 60% after fog dissipated.

We're anchored at Fury Cove, the last stop before heading across Queen Charlotte Sound and down Vancouver Island. The weather forecast keeps changing so we still haven't decided whether we're going down the inside or outside. We're not keen on all the motoring in inner channels so would prefer to sail down the west coast of the island, even though it's a lot more miles. That said, right now there are gale force winds predicted for that area, which isn't appealing either. We'll decide by tomorrow afternoon.


Sun Sep 6 16:00 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 52 03.701N 127 50.431W
Run: 27.7nm (50.1km)
Weather: Wind S 10k. Sea rippled. Baro 1028 mb, an increase of 8 mb in 8 hours. Cloud 100%.

No rain again today; with good visibility, we opted for some shortcuts through Reid and Gunboat Passages. Since we're just motoring, it was more enjoyable to maneuver through those narrow channels than to just drive along water highways. We're anchored in Codville Lagoon, which feels like a large lake once inside the entrance.


Sat Sep 5 15:09 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 52 18.667N 128 21.139W
Run: 27.6nm (50km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea flat. Baro 1020 mb and steady. Cloud 70%.

I turned 65 today and got the best birthday present possible: sunshine! The day began with heavy fog, which made it difficult to maneuver around the many large logs in the channels; but by midafternoon the sky was clearing. We're anchored in tiny Oliver Cove, a lovely place with rocky islets that we can actually finally see.

The planet has all the way around the sun 6 times since we left Washington on this date in 2014. It's been quite a journey.


Fri Sep 4 15:00 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
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GPS: 52 42.592N 128 24.154W
Run: 26.2nm (47.4km)
Weather: Wind S 5k. Sea flat. Baro 1022 mb and steady. Cloud 100% with rain and fog, thick at times.

I haven't been able to get an SSB connection for several days and of course we are far from internet range, so eventually several of these posts will upload at once. It feels odd to have no communication with the outside world (except for VHF radio; at least we can still get marine weather broadcasts) and have almost every anchorage to ourselves, as if we are alone on the planet. Fog and rain obscure the scenery, but this morning we got to see our first Dall porpoises in years. Welcome home! We're anchored at Bottleneck Inlet, a cozy little spot on Finlayson Channel.


Fri Sep 4 15:00 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 53 05.347N 128 25.993W
Run: 40.9nm (74km)
Avg: 818knts
24hr: 19632nm
Weather: Wind calm. Sea flat. Baro 1023 mb, an increase of 7 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

No fog today, and very little precipitation. Because of all the rain in the last month, waterfalls that are usually dry this time of year were gorgeous. We were grateful for today's good visibility, because Fraser Reach was gushing everywhere! We're anchored at Khutze Inlet, near a spectacular cascade and a seal colony.


Fri Sep 4 14:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 53 23.863N 129 16.566W
Run: 28.7nm (51.9km)
Weather: Wind S 15k. Sea S 0.3m. Baro 1016 mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with fog and rain, heavy at times.

Despite fog, rain, headwinds, adverse currents, and a mess of large logs in the water thrown in for good measure, we pushed on as far as Coghlan Anchorage. It's exposed to the south winds but since the next viable anchorage is 40 miles away, here we are.


Fri Sep 4 14:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 53 42.860N 129 43.597W
Run: 4459.7nm (8072.1km)
Avg: 46.6knts
24hr: 1117.8nm
Weather: Wind nil. Sea flat. Baro 1018 mb and steady. Cloud 100% with rain and fog.

We had 20k headwinds in Arthur Passage and Grenville Channel, so we had another very slow day (3.5k average speed) and once again did not get close to our intended anchorage. Ordinarily that wouldn't matter, but since the customs officer threatened us with 3 years imprisonment and up to a million dollar fine if we didn't do exactly as he said, it actually does matter that we're not making enough distance. We don't expect to end up in a Canadian jail, but we don't want to tangle with the authorities, either.

Wind and sea conditions below are in the East Inlet anchorage. It's too foggy to see much but we did get to hear the haunting call of a loon.


Mon Aug 31 15:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
Run: 4436.8nm (8030.6km)
Avg: 467knts
24hr: 11208.8nm
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.3m. Baro 1015, a decrease of 8 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with rain.

It was unfortunate our limited number of days allowed in Canada forced us to press on today, as conditions south of Prince Rupert were even stronger than forecast. We bashed into 25k headwinds and 2-3 foot waves for hours, averaging just 3k of speed. We?d gone just a little over half our planned distance for today when we decided we couldn?t make it to that anchorage before dark. We?re now anchored in Lawson Harbor, hoping for better conditions tomorrow.


Mon Aug 31 5:42 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 54 19.518N 130 24.035W
Run: 48.2nm (87.2km)
Weather: Wind nil. Sea flat. Baro 1023, an increase of 7 mb in 12 hours. Cloud 80%.

We checked in to Customs at Prince Rupert late this afternoon.

Reception was as chilly as expected. We would love to wait out tomorrow?s wind and rain in this nice little anchorage, but we have a limited number of days before we have to exit Canada, so we?ll keep moving.

Conditions below are inside Prince Rupert Harbor. Dixon Entrance, the day after strong winds, had W18k wind and W 3m waves.


Fri Aug 28 17:15 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 54 56.892N 130 56.383W
Run: 20nm (36.2km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea flat. Baro 1017 mb, slowly decreasing. Cloud 100%.

We're anchored in Foggy Bay, a cozy little spot that should be protected from the strong winds forecast for tonight and tomorrow. It's our very last anchorage in Alaska! Art made the most of his fishing license by bringing in some rockfish and setting out the crab trap one more time.


Thu Aug 27 15:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 06.424N 131 21.712W
Run: 7.7nm (13.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 5k. Sea flat. Baro 1019 and steady. Cloud 80%.

It didn?t rain today! We?re anchored in Crab Bay on the east side of Annette Island. Ironically, we can?t drop our crab pot here since we already caught our daily limit this morning before weighing anchor. We took advantage of the rain break to swap foresails for the trip south.


Thu Aug 27 5:03 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 12.720N 131 25.732W
Run: 8.4nm (15.2km)
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.5m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 100% with rain.

Forecasts are indicating Saturday would be the best day to cross Dixon Entrance into Canada, so we are gradually working our way toward that transit. With 26 consecutive days of rain, we?re not too sorry to be heading south. Maybe there?s a summer down there somewhere!


Tue Aug 25 14:48 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 07.770N 131 35.157W
Run: 15.8nm (28.6km)
Weather: Wind S 10k. Sea S 0.3m. Baro 1019 and steady. Cloud 100% with showers.

We left Ketchikan and stopped in Metlakatla, a Tsimshian village that is the only Indian Reserve in Alaska. We got permission in advance to visit, but even so were impressed with the friendly reception we received.


Thu Aug 20 15:45 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 21.076N 131 41.085W
Run: 35nm (63.4km)
Weather: Wind NE 15k. Sea NE 0.6m. Baro 1011 mb, a decrease of 5 mb in 8 hours and falling. Cloud 100% with showers.

Finally got to Ketchikan! Caught a rare northerly and actually got to sail for a while. We have several projects that need attention so we plan to be here at least a few days.


Wed Aug 19 17:45 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 44.375N 132 15.476W
Run: 9.5nm (17.2km)
Weather: Wind S 10k. Sea S 0.3m. Baro 1016 mb and steady. Cloud 100%, showers.

Happy Anniversary to us! (Can it really have been 46 years?!) Vixen Inlet did indeed have plentiful crab, and now we've moved on to Meyers Chuck. It's a tiny fishing village (so tiny it doesn't even have internet; didn't think that happened anywhere anymore); just a few homes and small boats, and Cassie (who distributes the mail once a week and bakes cinnamon rolls).


Mon Aug 17 15:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 48.106N 132 02.384W
Run: 12.8nm (23.2km)
Weather: Wind S 5k. Sea flat. Baro 1013 mb, an increase of 5 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%, light rain.

We are ready to head south down Clarence Strait to Ketchikan, but since that trip is upwind we still need to wait for a better weather window. In the meantime, we have moved to Vixen Inlet. It's very calm here, and as always, we are alone in the anchorage. The previous location used to have good crabbing but now it's full of jellyfish and we caught no crab; we're hoping for better luck here.


Fri Aug 14 15:51 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 55 58.647N 131 56.077W
Run: 6nm (10.9km)
Weather: Wind S 10k. Sea flat. Baro 1022 mb, an increase of 7 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Strong winds are expected to arrive again tomorrow evening so we moved to Santa Anna Inlet, reputedly very protected. We expect we'll be holed up here for 3 or 4 days. We took advantage of the time before the rain starts again and scrambled through the thick forest to a nearby lake, along the way gathering a lot of wild blueberries. Crab for dinner, blueberry pancakes for breakfast!


Thu Aug 13 15:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 03.772N 131 58.102W
Run: 9nm (16.3km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea flat. Baro 1015 mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 100%.

The Anan Bay Bear Observatory was one of the best experiences we've had anywhere! We spent hours watching brown and black bears catch and eat salmon that were trying to jump a waterfall; at one point a mother and cub decided to have their meal just a meter from the observation deck. Now we're anchored at Frosty Bay, an extremely quiet cove.


Tue Aug 11 15:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 11.123N 131 53.587W
Run: 14.5nm (26.2km)
Weather: Wind S 10k. Sea rippled. Baro 1023 mb, an increase of 8 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with showers.

The strong winds dissipated so we continued south in Eastern Passage and are anchored in Anan Bay, actually just an indentation. Tomorrow we will hike to the Anan Bay Bear Observatory; only 24 visitor permits are issued per day, but this year getting 2 of them was not a problem.


Mon Aug 10 15:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 20.710N 132 08.358W
Run: 12.5nm (22.6km)
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea rippled. Baro 1016 mb, a decrease of 9 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with showers.

After a fascinating morning exploring the rock carvings at Petroglyph Beach, we left Wrangell and followed the tidal current south in Eastern Passage. We're anchored in a small bay half way down the western side, out of the current and hopefully out of the gale force winds predicted for the larger straits. We'll hunker down here for a day or so.


Sat Aug 8 6:21 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 27.935N 132 22.961W
Run: 23.5nm (42.5km)
Weather: Wind E 10k. Sea E 0.4m. Baro 1010 mb and steady. Cloud 100% with showers.

We are docked at Wrangell, now a fishing town but originally a Tlingit community. We?ve already enjoyed the many totem poles and tomorrow will hike to a beach known for its ancient petroglyphs.


Fri Aug 7 12:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 32.521N 132 59.059W
Run: 18.8nm (34km)
Weather: Wind S 5k. Sea rippled. Baro 1010 mb, a decrease of 4 mb in 12 hours. Cloud 100%.

Weather kept us in Petersburg longer than planned, but today we took a flood tide down Wrangell Narrows and are anchored near the south entrance. The Narrows are 21 miles long and have 65 channel markers for the twists and turns, which made for an interesting few hours.


Sat Aug 1 15:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 48.800N 132 57.665W
Run: 12.7nm (23km)
Weather: Wind NW 10k. Sea NW 0.5m. Baro 1010 mb, a decrease of 11 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 40%.

Yesterday a sunny Shanghai-La, today blue icebergs as big as houses near Le Conte Glacier, tonight docked amongst the fishing fleet at Petersburg. No boredom on this boat! We?ll be in Petersburg for a few days, locating a replacement part for our chartplotter sonar and attending to miscellaneous chores.


Fri Jul 31 15:45 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 58.813N 132 49.037W
Run: 19.1nm (34.6km)
Weather: Wind N10k. Sea rippled. Baro 1021 mb and steady. Cloud 60%.

Another day's drive (with so little wind, trawlers make more sense here than sailboats) brought us to Thomas Bay. The bay's glacier receded ages ago, so the main draw is Scenery Cove. It's a narrow steep canyon with a meadow and stream at the head, beneath a ring of mountains; it looked so perfect it hardly seemed real. And the water was a most unusual emerald green, adding to the surreal quality. Once again we are the only boat in the anchorage, though the plethora of crab traps in the bay means there must be people somewhere (possibly coming over from Petersburg?).


Thu Jul 30 15:24 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 00.074N 133 19.347W
Run: 54.4nm (98.5km)
Weather: Wind WNW 12k. Sea WNW 0.5m. Baro 1021 mb, a 3 mb increase in 24 hours. Cloud 0%.

There were several bays within Tebenkof Bay, each of which had numerous islets and coves. We enjoyed watching black bears on shore every day, as well as a large number of otters: fun to see, but they decimate the crab population. (No crab cakes for us after all.) Tonight we are in Portage Bay, a placid and sheltered anchorage in Frederick Sound. We've had sunshine for 2 days in a row and are revelling in it!


Sun Jul 26 16:21 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 22.032N 134 10.372W
Run: 42nm (76km)
Avg: 840knts
24hr: 20160nm
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.8m. Baro 1018 mb and steady. Cloud 100%, foggy then light rain.

Today brought some wind, and we tacked our way down to Tebenkof Bay Wilderness Area where we are anchored at the end of Thetis Bay. Fishing is reportedly good here, so we plan to explore some nooks and crannies in the area for the next few days while trying to replenish our fresh seafood supply.


Sun Jul 26 16:18 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 56 52.331N 134 47.278W
Run: 14.1nm (25.5km)
Weather: Wind SE 5k. Sea flat. Baro 1017 mb, an increase of 6 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Art jury-rigged a repair for the windlass yesterday, then the sun made a brief appearance so we had an enjoyable walk to the nearby lake and natural hot springs. This morning we had a lovely soak in the bath house, then drove (very little wind, as usual) to nearby Red Bluff Bay. It's in a gorgeous setting, almost completely enclosed and surrounded by tall mountains, with a large waterfall on one side.


Fri Jul 24 16:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 04.486N 134 49.632W
Run: 8.6nm (15.6km)
Avg: 172knts
24hr: 4128nm
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea SE 0.7m. Baro 1011 mb, a decrease of 4 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with rain.

Into every life some rain must fall. Figuratively, we've been repair-free for quite some time, but yesterday the chartplotter's sonar stopped working (fortunately we have a backup depth meter), and this morning a piece broke off the windlass so it will let the chain down but not bring it up correctly. Literally, it's raining, so we're anchored at Warm Springs Bay but are not keen on hiking to the waterfall and lake. Putting two and two together makes today a fix-it day.


Fri Jul 24 16:09 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 11.937N 134 50.974W
Run: 38.7nm (70km)
Weather: Wind SE 4k. Sea flat. Baro 1015 mb and steady. Cloud 100%.

A humpback whale sounded near our boat in Chatham Strait, we're anchored in a tiny gem of an anchorage (Ell Cove), and we had fresh crab cakes for dinner. All is definitely well aboard!


Wed Jul 22 16:15 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 44.373N 135 07.382W
Run: 28nm (50.7km)
Weather: Wind SW 5k. Sea flat. Baro 1015 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 90%.

Our primary route is now southerly, and already it's warmer. We're anchored at Corner Bay in Tenakee Inlet, where we've been enjoying watching a mama bear with her cub, and later an unusual bear that was brown but with white ears! Our crab trap was filled this morning so we had a delicious crab feast for dinner.


Mon Jul 20 15:36 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 06.423N 135 26.746W
Run: 46.9nm (84.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea SE 0.7m. Baro 1025 mb, an increase of 7 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with showers.

After many marvelous experiences in Glacier Bay, it was time to start heading south. We are docked at Hoonah, the oldest Tlingit community in Alaska (settled when glaciers overran their previous home in what is now Glacier Bay). More than a convenient fuel stop, it?s a small and charming little town.


Mon Jul 20 15:24 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
Weather: Wind NW 5k. Sea rippled. Baro 1018 mb and steady. Cloud 100% with rain and fog.

We are anchored in Bartlett Cove, our last night in Glacier Bay. A grand finale experience was having a humpback whale do barrel rolls and fiercely slap its flukes on the water, just yards from our boat while we were anchored at Willoughby Island waiting for a favorable current. Wow!


Sat Jul 18 15:51 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 43.267N 135 59.834W
Run: 16.9nm (30.6km)
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea SE 0.3m. Baro 1016 mb, an increase of 7mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

We drove to the end of John Muir Inlet today, flanked by intriguing and increasingly more stark cliff faces. All the glaciers in that inlet have receded dramatically, but we managed to snag a bit of glacier ice and made a ceremonial G&T at the highest latitude we will ever be in our journeys (59 05.310N). A whale was feeding in North Sandy Cove when we arrived to anchor for the night. Tomorrow we'll return to John Hopkins Inlet to get one last look at the glaciers that still reach the sea.


Thu Jul 16 16:24 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 57.495N 136 06.439W
Run: 11.2nm (20.3km)
Weather: Wind SW 7k. Sea SW 0.2m. Baro 1009 mb, a decrease of 4mb in 24 hours. Cloud 60%.

SSB connections have been erratic so these posts may be out of order, but that doesn't matter. Yesterday was rainy and we only went as far as Sebree Cove, but today was more clear and we drove to the end of Wachusett Inlet. It's a narrow fiord with milky jade water, flanked by steep snowy peaks, numerous cascades, and thick forest; we soaked in the majestic beauty for hours. Now we're at Goose Cove, the farthest north we will ever anchor. There are bergy bits around us and the water temp reads 41F, but the sun feels warm and we enjoyed seeing another bear on shore.


Wed Jul 15 16:18 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 49.478N 136 17.023W
Run: 19.4nm (35.1km)
Avg: 97.1knts
24hr: 2331.2nm
Weather: Wind ENE 4k. Sea flat. Baro 1021 mb, a steady increase over two days. Cloud 100%.

The glacier at the end of Tarr Inlet was active, and we got to see huge slabs of ice break off. The sounds were as powerful as the sights: ice cracking sounded like rifle shots, and chunks hitting the water sounded like cannon booms (and created waves that rocked the boat). How dramatic, to witness the earth changing right before our eyes! Now we're anchored at the end of narrow Tidal Inlet (which we dubbed Waterfall Alley), watching a bear graze near the shore.


Wed Jul 15 16:06 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 51.758N 136 49.263W
Weather: Wind S 13k. Sea rippled. Baro 1011 mb and steady. Cloud 70%.

Every day has been an adventure! Yesterday we drove into John Hopkins Inlet, past glaciers and through bergy bits. Anchored at Reid Inlet, today we walked around (and briefly on) Reid Glacier. Tomorrow we'll drive up Tarr Inlet (no sailing wind here) to see the glaciers at the end of that long arm.


Mon Jul 13 17:36 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 51.758N 136 49.263W
Run: 13.4nm (24.3km)
Weather: Wind S 13k. Sea rippled. Baro 1011 mb and steady. Cloud 70%.

Every day has been an adventure! Yesterday we drove into John Hopkins Inlet, past glaciers and through bergy bits. Anchored at Reid Inlet, today we walked around (and briefly on) Reid Glacier. Tomorrow we'll drive up Tarr Inlet (no sailing wind here) to see the glaciers at the end of that long arm.


Fri Jul 10 15:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 46.702N 136 29.035W
Run: 36.2nm (65.5km)
Weather: Wind NE 6k. Sea flat. Baro 1016 mb and steady. Cloud 100% with light rain and fog.

We entered Glacier Bay yesterday, anchoring at South Fingers Cove last night and Blue Mouse Cove today. So far the mountains have been mostly shrouded in clouds, but even glimpses through the mists have been captivating. Otters abound, and porpoises and whales have been feeding in the cove. We are the only vessel in this area, and it feels magical!


Tue Jul 7 14:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 15.670N 136 19.726W
Run: 4.6nm (8.3km)
Weather: Wind SW 16k. Sea rippled from wind and current. Baro 1024 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 100%.

Anchored at Inian Cove on Inian Island. Given the prevailing wind direction we were surprised to be getting wind inside the cove; the hills are funneling gusts. That plus no sun means it feels cold, but it sure is beautiful! We've also been treated to the sight of many otters and sea lions.


Mon Jul 6 15:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 58 11.739N 136 20.830W
Run: 86.8nm (157.1km)
Weather: Wind NW 2k. Sea flat. Baro 1022 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 100% with fog.

Sitka and a side trip by plane to Denali were terrific; now we're headed north to Glacier Bay. Rather than taking the inside route motoring through narrows, we chose the ocean side and rode a southerly wind up the Gulf before tucking into picturesque Elfin Cove. Built on the steep rocky sides of a small cove, this charming little community uses boardwalks and boats to get between dwellings.


Sat Jun 20 11:30 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 03.503N 135 21.289W
Weather: Wind nil. Sea flat. Baro 1007, a decrease of 10 mb over 2 days. Cloud 100% with rain.

We?ll be in Sitka for at least another 10 days, getting a marine survey completed and taking a short side trip to Denali National Park. I?ll resume position reports once we start to move again.


Thu Jun 18 12:45 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 57 03.503N 135 21.289W
Run: 95.9nm (173.6km)
Weather: Wind W 6k. Sea flat. Baro 1018, an increase of 4 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Arrived in Sitka! Overall a good 23 day passage. It?s cool and damp (summer here feels like winter in the San Juans), but the eagles and rocky islets feel just right.


Tue Jun 16 14:54 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 56 35.25N 137 44.38W
Run: 99.9nm (180.8km)
Avg: 4.1knts
24hr: 98.3nm
Weather: Wind NW 15k. Sea NW 2m. Baro 1014 mb, an increase of 3mb. Cloud 100%.

After a lull in the wee hours this morning, a favorable wind shift is allowing us to sail the final miles directly to Sitka. Since it is light so late, if it weren't for the cloud cover we might even be able to see land today! We've been sighted ourselves; we were buzzed by a plane this morning.


Mon Jun 15 14:30 2020 NZST
Speed:
5.3k
knts
GPS: 55 23.13N 139 10.50W
Run: 165.6nm (299.7km)
Avg: 7.1knts
24hr: 170.2nm
Weather: Wind E 15k. Sea E 1.5m. Baro 1011 mb and steady, after a drop to 1008 yesterday evening. Cloud 70%.

Fortunately when the low reached us last night, we did indeed only catch the upper edge of it (sometimes strategies actually work). Winds in the mid 20's for about 12 hours, with comparable seas, were quite manageable. Conditions steadily improved since morning. If the wind angle was more favorable we could make landfall tomorrow, but the wind has shifted to the NE, exactly where we need to head. Even with some long tacks, we're encouraged to think we can arrive by Tuesday.


Sun Jun 14 15:09 2020 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 53 24.83N 141 30.92W
Run: 139nm (251.6km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 138.1nm
Weather: Wind ESE 11k. Sea ESE 0.8m. Baro 1017 mb and steady. Cloud 98%.

The breeze picked up this morning and the sea was relatively calm, so we had a great sailing day. The clouds even parted for a while this morning and we had our first glimpse of the sky in 2 weeks. Didn't last long, but it sure was nice!


Sat Jun 13 15:00 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 51 55.53N 143 44.77W
Run: 134.2nm (242.9km)
Avg: 5.5knts
24hr: 133.1nm
Weather: Wind NNE 10k. Sea NNE 1.3m. Baro 1017 mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 100%.

There are times to be content with sailing slowly, but this is not one of them. Another deep low is approaching so we are motorsailing, hoping when it arrives we'll be near the outside of its NE quadrant rather than taking a direct hit. An added advantage is that the engine heat is warming up the cabin; what a relief! We were delighted to pass by some floating bull kelp. It didn't just mean we are getting closer to land, it looked like home.


Fri Jun 12 14:48 2020 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 50 28.95N 145 49.11W
Weather: Wind NW 10k. Sea NW 2.2m. Baro 1019 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 100%.

Yesterday's dramatic barometer increase did indeed foretell an improvement in the weather. Today's winds and seas are much more favorable; all three sails are flying and we're enjoying a fine sail. With no waves running into the cockpit and a thin enough cloud cover for some solar to finally get through, we were able to spend some nice time outside for a change.


Fri Jun 12 14:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 50 28.95N 145 49.11W
Run: 149.3nm (270.2km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151.8nm
Weather: Wind NW 10k. Sea NW 2.2m. Baro 1019 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 100%.

Yesterday's dramatic barometer increase did indeed foretell an improvement in the weather. Today's winds and seas are much more favorable; all three sails are flying and we're enjoying a fine sail. With no waves running into the cockpit and a thin enough cloud cover for some solar to finally get through, we were able to spend some nice time outside for a change.


Thu Jun 11 15:03 2020 NZST
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 48 40.72N 147 39.15W
Run: 103.1nm (186.6km)
Avg: 4.2knts
24hr: 101.4nm
Weather: Wind NW 25k. Sea NW 3.8m. Baro 1018 mb, an increase of 12 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

"Same song, third verse; a little bit colder and a little bit worse." The galley window sprang a leak yesterday and was letting in a pint of water every time we got hit by a large wave, which was very often. When we slowed down, Art was able to go out and caulk it heavily; it's ugly but so far is keeping water outside. So we're back up to speed, which means waves are constantly smashing into the boat but we are making good progress.


Wed Jun 10 14:39 2020 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 47 25.78N 148 52.40W
Run: 140.7nm (254.7km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 141.6nm
Weather: Wind NNW 27k. Sea NW 3.2m. Baro 1006 mb, a decrease of 6 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Similar conditions to yesterday, but we decided we needed to head more upwind so we wouldn't get too far east too soon. By mid afternoon when wind and seas increased that made for very aggressive sailing, so we rolled in the inner foresail and are sailing on 3rd reefed main alone. Now we're only making about 3k but at least we are maintaining course and not bashing nearly as much. Our cabin heater stopped working. Since the problem is apparently in the control unit, it's not something we can fix until we get to Alaska. We're cold all the time now, which is going to make the last part of this passage much more uncomfortable.


Tue Jun 9 14:48 2020 NZST
Speed:
4.8k
knts
GPS: 45 46.11N 150 35.11W
Run: 138.1nm (250km)
Avg: 5.6knts
24hr: 135.6nm
Weather: Wind NW 25k. Sea NW 2.8m. Baro 1012 mb, an increase of 4 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Having a rough ride. We need to be heading more north but any further upwind would be brutal. It would be more comfortable to fall off the wind more, but if we head that direction we'll have to crawl back north eventually, so we might as well do it now. The not so happy medium is taking wind off the aft quarter, with lots of rolling and waves crashing into and over the boat.(Much too loud to sleep!) The good news is our Hydrovane is steering the boat better than we could, so we just huddle under blankets in the cabin and pop our heads out regularly for safety checks.


Mon Jun 8 14:21 2020 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 44 37.98N 152 55.06W
Run: 94.5nm (171km)
Avg: 4.1knts
24hr: 99.5nm
Weather: Wind WSW 17k. Sea WSW 1.8m. Baro 1008 mb, a decrease of 10 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

By heaving to rather than run with the system, we were in more favorable wind within 6 hours; the price paid of fewer miles toward our destination was worth it. We've been traveling nicely today (though the gribs show a deeper low right on the heels of this one; oh joy). It's Day 9 of cloud cover, but the rain stopped so we enjoyed being in the cockpit again. A milestone: 1000 miles to go!


Sun Jun 7 15:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
2.3k
knts
GPS: 43 28.24N 153 55.22W
Run: 269.4nm (487.6km)
Weather: Wind ESE 33k. Sea ESE 3.5m and building. Baro 1020 mb, a decrease of 9 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% with rain.

We're in the midst of a low that a previous forecast showed passing over by this evening. Unfortunately we're having trouble with SSB transmission and haven't been able to receive a current forecast, so once the winds got over 35k (10k more than predicted), we decided to heave to for a few hours. Ideally drifting this direction will get us out of the worst of it sooner.

This report is from Saturday 6 June USA (in case post gets delayed).


Sun Jun 7 15:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

The wind behaved as predicted so we are indeed still upwind but on a better course (and not even bashing much). It's gotten quite cold already for us tropical wimps, so the thought of another 1000 miles north makes us shudder! We've added layers of clothes and blankets, and turned the heater on for a bit this morning. This is Day 7 of cloud cover (good thing we're not navigating by sextant), but even without sunshine the enclosed cockpit is a reasonably good solarium during the day. We've passed the half-way point and will have a celebratory meal tonight.

Addendum: This report is from Friday 5 June USA. We're having trouble with SSB transmission so it may not have been posted.


Sat Jun 6 17:06 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

The wind behaved as predicted so we are indeed still upwind but on a better course (and not even bashing much). It's gotten quite cold already for us tropical wimps, so the thought of another 1000 miles north makes us shudder! We've added layers of clothes and blankets, and turned the heater on for a bit this morning. This is Day 7 of cloud cover (good thing we're not navigating by sextant), but even without sunshine the enclosed cockpit is a reasonably good solarium during the day. We've passed the half-way point and will have a celebratory meal tonight.


Sat Jun 6 14:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

The wind behaved as predicted so we are indeed still upwind but on a better course (and not even bashing much). It's gotten quite cold already for us tropical wimps, so the thought of another 1000 miles north makes us shudder! We've added layers of clothes and blankets, and turned the heater on for a bit this morning. This is Day 7 of cloud cover (good thing we're not navigating by sextant), but even without sunshine the enclosed cockpit is a reasonably good solarium during the day. We've passed the half-way point and will have a celebratory meal tonight.


Sat Jun 6 14:45 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

The wind behaved as predicted so we are indeed still upwind but on a better course (and not even bashing much). It's gotten quite cold already for us tropical wimps, so the thought of another 1000 miles north makes us shudder! We've added layers of clothes and blankets, and turned the heater on for a bit this morning. This is Day 7 of cloud cover (good thing we're not navigating by sextant), but even without sunshine the enclosed cockpit is a reasonably good solarium during the day. We've passed the half-way point and will have a celebratory meal tonight.


Sat Jun 6 14:24 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

The wind behaved as predicted so we are indeed still upwind but on a better course (and not even bashing much). It's gotten quite cold already for us tropical wimps, so the thought of another 1000 miles north makes us shudder! We've added layers of clothes and blankets, and turned the heater on for a bit this morning. This is Day 7 of cloud cover (good thing we're not navigating by sextant), but even without sunshine the enclosed cockpit is a reasonably good solarium during the day. We've passed the half-way point and will have a celebratory meal tonight.


Fri Jun 5 14:30 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 39 34.97N 154 17.88W
Run: 105.6nm (191.1km)
Avg: 4.3knts
24hr: 103.7nm
Weather: Wind NNE 13k. Sea NNE 2.0m swell with wind wave chop. Baro 1030 mb and steady. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

We finally got into some wind, though distance made good to our destination has not improved because we're bashing upwind and off our desired course. However, it's not worse than we expected, and the wind is predicted to clock tonight and tomorrow. IF it does, we'll still be bashing but we'll be on a much more favorable course. We've been visited by dolphins twice, once with a spectacular show of leaping and playing!


Thu Jun 4 14:03 2020 NZST
Speed:
3.8k
knts
GPS: 38 03.76N 154 06.07W
Run: 102.8nm (186.1km)
Avg: 4.2knts
24hr: 100.7nm
Weather: Wind SSW 9k. Sea W 2.0m. Baro 1030 mb, an increase of 2 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100% (low cloud and fog).

In spite of the light wind we've been able to keep sailing at an acceptable pace. That said, being off course and having to jibe downwind the last couple of days means our distance made good has been disappointing. Gribs are forecasting a wind shift and increase tomorrow, so we're staying optimistic as we float along in light fog...


Wed Jun 3 13:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
3.5k
knts
GPS: 36 48.77N 155 06.99W
Run: 202.7nm (366.9km)
Avg: 4.2knts
24hr: 101nm
Weather: Wind S 9k. Sea WSW 2.5m, long periods. Baro 1028 mb, an increase of 2 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

The previous wind shift took us off our desired course, but at least we can still have the sails up. And another plus: we came across a glass ball! An incredible stroke of luck, and in the calm air we were able to snag it easily. No fish on our trolling line, but we caught a treasure.


Tue Jun 2 13:54 2020 NZST
Speed:
3.5k
knts
Weather: Wind SW 7k. Sea WSW 1.5m. Baro 1026 mb, an increase of 3 mb in 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Sailing very slowly can be called ghosting, but last night we were truly a ghost ship: creeping along silently in fog. We are far enough north to need jackets and sweats on night watch, but not far enough to be past the large area of high pressure (= light wind). Probably the best way to look at it is that every day we're not getting slammed is a good day.

Update to the noon position: wind turned lighter and more southerly. We did a gentle jibe and are now sailing at 2.5k on a course of 40T.


Mon Jun 1 13:24 2020 NZST
Speed:
3k
knts
GPS: 33 59.67N 156 06.56W
Run: 150.4nm (272.2km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151.3nm
Weather: Wind NW 7k. Sea NW 0.8m. Baro 1023 mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with fog.

So far this has been a surprisingly slow trip. Wind got over 20k yesterday, but today we are back in light airs that are forecast to be in our area for at least a few days. At least we are able to glide across the sea over long low swells, so we can't complain.


Sun May 31 13:33 2020 NZST
Speed:
7.5k
knts
GPS: 31 51.62N 156 36.80W
Run: 158nm (286km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 162.4nm
Weather: Wind WNW 19k. Sea WNW 2m. Baro 1024 mb, a decrease of 4 mb in 24 hrs. Cloud 95%.

A good day. We have plenty of wind and are now a fourth of the distance toward our destination.


Sat May 30 14:12 2020 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 29 35.61N 156 57.40W
Run: 115.1nm (208.3km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 113.9nm
Weather: Wind SW 9k. Sea mixed, predominant NE 1.5m. Baro 1028 mb and steady. Cloud 5%.

Fuel is a concern on a passage of this distance, but when the wind died last night we decided to motor. We needed the engine on to run the watermaker (=refill the empty tank), plus there was good wind predicted to the north and we didn't want to miss it. Mission accomplished: tank is nearly full and we've caught an ideal west wind, moving well in exactly the direction we want to go.


Fri May 29 13:57 2020 NZST
Speed:
3.5k
knts
GPS: 27 56.75N 157 14.10W
Run: 113.9nm (206.2km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 114.6nm
Weather: Wind SE 6k. Sea SE 1.5m. Baro 1027 mb, an increase of 2mb in 24 hours. Cloud 5%.

In the Excitement Of The Day Contest, 2nd runner up goes to the freighter that came within a mile of us (sure were glad we had the AIS). 1st runner up was watching a green glow (not quite a green flash) on the horizon at sunrise. The winner: realizing a faulty valve in the watermaker had caused the contents of our port water tank to empty into the sea! Fortunately Art found a workaround so we can gradually refill it.


Thu May 28 14:06 2020 NZST
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 26 18.94N 157 30.34W
Run: 92.8nm (168km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 89.6nm
Weather: Wind E 10k. Sea ESE 1.2m. Baro 1025 mb, another slight increase. Cloud 60%.

When our speed dropped below 2k last night and we couldn't keep the sails from slatting, we ended up having to motor. Thankfully the wind picked up this morning and we are having another lovely sail under trade wind skies. The stars overhead and the bioluminescence in the surrounding water have been gorgeous at night, and today we were visited by a very large seabird that we suspect was a northern albatross.


Wed May 27 13:15 2020 NZST
Speed:
2.5k
knts
GPS: 24 59.29N 157 43.80W
Run: 126.6nm (229.1km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 126.9nm
Weather: Wind SE 4k. Sea SE 0.8m. Baro 1025 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 10%.

At twilight yesterday 4 boobies played with the wind around our sails until dark, then 2 of them rode on the bow pulpit until dawn. We had a good run overnight, but the wind died today and we are ghosting in the pacific Pacific.


Tue May 26 13:18 2020 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 23 10.82N 158 03.33W
Run: 129.2nm (233.9km)
Weather: Wind E 10k. Sea E 1.3m. Baro 1024 mb, a slight increase. Cloud 70%.

A lovely start to our passage! We were delighted to see the Southern Cross just above the horizon last night, a final farewell to the tropics. Now we're moving along nicely in a light breeze.


Thu May 21 11:45 2020 NZST
GPS: 21 19.012N 157 53.631W
Run: 4nm (7.2km)
Weather: Wind ENE 15k. Sea minimal. Baro 1022 and steady. Cloud 20%.

We left Honolulu, planning to anchor on the west side of Oahu for a few days then head north to Alaska but have had to backtrack. Our AIS stopped receiving/transmitting our GPS information, which we felt was a dealbreaker for an offshore passage. Now we're on a mooring buoy in Keehi Lagoon, waiting for replacement parts to arrive.


Sun May 3 13:51 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 21 17.096N 157 50.468W
Run: 10.6nm (19.2km)
Weather: Wind E 15k. Sea nil. Baro 1022 and steady. Cloud 30%.

We are back at Ala Wai in Honolulu, picking up & installing autopilot parts and doing final provisioning for our passage to Alaska. We're still planning on departing towards the end of May.


Thu Apr 16 13:15 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 21 25.913N 157 47.610W
Run: 79.7nm (144.3km)
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea E 1m. Baro 1023 mb and steady. Cloud 100%.

A pleasant overnight sail (interrupted by a 30k thunderstorm at 0500) brought us to Kaneohe Bay on Oahu. It's a very protected location and we're enjoying not rolling in the anchorage. Working on projects will be easier here (currently protecting & insulating heat ducts, and varnishing), and we plan to stay at least a week.


Sat Apr 11 13:51 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 21 00.903N 156 38.442W
Run: 32.7nm (59.2km)
Weather: Wind WSW 13k. Sea WSW 1m. Baro 1018 mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 90%.

We made overnight stops at Big Beach (near Molokini) and east of Lahaina; both of those anchorages were only viable due to very benign conditions. Now we're at Honolua Bay, a pretty spot with lots of surfers riding large waves at the nearby point. The waves are a bit uncomfortable in the bay but the wind is predicted to shift soon, and we plan to stay here for at least a few days.


Tue Apr 7 15:15 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 35.50N 156 24.90W
Run: 39.8nm (72km)
Weather: Wind SW 10k. Sea SSW 1m. Baro 1016 mb and steady. Cloud 70% with occasional showers.

After a nice sail to Maui that included spotting some whale spouts, we are anchored at La Perouse Bay. We'd prefer an anchorage that's smaller and less exposed, but there aren't many options in this area. So far we're the only sailboat out and about (so keeping the recommended social distance from other people is absolutely no problem!).


Mon Apr 6 13:18 2020 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 47.827N 156 59.370W
Run: 64.5nm (116.7km)
Weather: Wind SSE 8k. Sea SSE 0.5m. Baro 1018 mb and steady. Cloud 100%.

Since Hawaii state marinas limit transient stays and it's too early to leave for Alaska, we left Honolulu to do some anchoring around the neighboring islands. We've been on the SW coast of Lanai for a few days, enjoying complete solitude in a rocky cove and a chance to continue working on projects at a more relaxed rate. (Due to coronavirus restrictions, Waikiki is now a ghost town. At least cruisers have experience being isolated for long periods of time in limited space!)


Sun Dec 15 12:33 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 21 17.096N 157 50.468W
Run: 0.1nm (0.2km)
Weather: Wind SW 8k. Sea nil. Baro 1018, a decrease of 2mb. Cloud 100%.

Second Wind is now at a slip in Ala Wai Boat Harbor, and we felt an update about marina conditions would be appropriate. Contrary to information found online, there is no longer a fuel dock in the harbor, nor are there pumpout or laundry facilities. Shower keys require a $100 deposit per gender and don't always work. As of November 2019, moorage rates increased considerably; in addition, they charge $10 per person per day as a liveaboard fee. On the upside, many people found these conditions onerous and have left the marina, so there is no longer a shortage of available slips. We will stay here for the time being since the location is ideal, but are likely to look for alternatives after the first of the year.


Fri Dec 6 17:15 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 21 17.215N 157 50.475W
Run: 96.4nm (174.5km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 89.8nm
Weather: Wind NE 10k. Sea nil. Baro 1017mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 98%.

We docked at Ala Wai Harbor in Honolulu at 0900, after a very boisterous final 120 miles. The Customs officer said the weather was unusually windy (good to know we weren't imagining the challenges). But here we are, officially back in the USA. We don't plan on making another YIT post until the next time the boat changes location, which is likely to be March 2020.


Thu Dec 5 15:30 2019 NZDT
GPS: 20 14.68N 156 50.94W

After a restful afternoon & night, we set sail early this morning and are on the final sprint into Honolulu


Thu Dec 5 15:12 2019 NZDT
GPS: 20 14.68N 156 50.94W
Run: 65.9nm (119.3km)
Avg: 2.7knts
24hr: 65.9nm

After a restful afternoon & night, we set sail early this morning and are on the final sprint into Honolulu


Wed Dec 4 15:12 2019 NZDT
Speed:
1.5k
knts
GPS: 19 30.74N 156 11.93W
Run: 153.8nm (278.4km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 157.7nm
Weather: Wind variable 3k. Sea W 0.5m. Baro 1018mb and steady. Cloud 40%.

We were welcomed to the state of Hawaii by our first clear night sky and the northern hemisphere stars. We dropped our sails around noon & are bobbing along in the lee of the Big Island, trying to time our arrival in Honolulu by daylight and figuring this would be the calmest place between here and there to hang out. It's giving us a chance to tidy up ourselves & the boat so we'll be presentable to Customs officials.


Tue Dec 3 15:48 2019 NZDT
GPS: 17 55.60N 154 33.06W
Run: 181.4nm (328.3km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 184.1nm

Every night of this passage has been squally, and last night's were particularly intense


Mon Dec 2 16:09 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 16 33.52N 152 12.34W
Run: 178.4nm (322.9km)
Weather: Wind NE 18k. Sea NE 2.8m. Baro 1016mb and steady. Cloud 85%.

A little more sun + a little less wind = a more pleasant day. Wind is on the aft starboard quarter, just where we wanted it, and we have about 400 miles left.


Mon Dec 2 16:09 2019 NZDT
GPS: 15 14.51N 149 53.81W
Run: 161.6nm (292.5km)
Avg: 3.3knts
24hr: 79.4nm

After a week of seeing nothing but gray by day & black by night, we were treated to some patches of blue around midday. With fewer squalls and not so much downwind, the jib is flying again


Sat Nov 30 15:18 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 14 00.57N 147 50.63W
Run: 189.5nm (343km)
Avg: 8.3knts
24hr: 199nm
Weather: Wind ENE 21k. Sea NE 3.1m. Baro 1014mb, a slight increase. Cloud 98% with squalls.

We dropped to second reef late yesterday afternoon, then in a strong and prolonged squall last night decided to furl in the jib. Since we're not racing anyone to Hawaii and the gribs show conditions building rather than abating, we're sticking with the reduced sail plan for now.


Fri Nov 29 16:27 2019 NZDT
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 12 14.70N 145 41.28W
Run: 159.7nm (289.1km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 153.9nm
Weather: Wind NE 18k. Sea NE 3.0m. Baro 1013mb and steady. Cloud 100%.

It's Thanksgiving Day in the USA, and we have much to be thankful for. In addition to this precious planet and our loving family & friends, we have under 900 miles to go and will have freshly caught tuna for our feast!


Thu Nov 28 15:33 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.4k
knts
GPS: 10 44.16N 143 54.11W
Run: 142.4nm (257.7km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 142.7nm
Weather: Wind NE 22k. Sea NE 3.6m. Baro 1013mb and steady. Cloud 100% with squalls.

Light wind + large waves overnight meant motoring again, but we got back into wind around 10N; that was our turning point. Our strategy was to head north until past the ITCZ, then head NW and more or less sail the rhumb line to Oahu. Theoretically that would give us a more favorable wind angle for the last long leg (wind at least on the beam, if not slightly aft, the whole way). We'll see how those best laid plans play out...


Wed Nov 27 15:36 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 09 00.42N 142 45.85W
Run: 107nm (193.7km)
Avg: 4.5knts
24hr: 107.2nm
Weather: Wind NE 26k. Sea NE 3.5m. Baro 1013mb and steady. Cloud 100% with rain, frequently heavy.

A wet night, then a wet & wild morning; we've never had this much torrential rain on a passage before! But at least there's plenty of wind; with sustained gusts over 30k, we're reefed and still making good progress through the large sloppy waves.


Tue Nov 26 15:39 2019 NZDT
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 07 35.40N 142 08.02W
Run: 126nm (228.1km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 126.5nm
Weather: Wind SE 7k. Sea SE 2.3m. Baro 1013mb, a slight increase. Cloud 90% with areas of rain.

We're in the ITCZ, but it has its advantages: the rain is washing salt off the decks & solar panels, and having the engine on has allowed us to make water.


Mon Nov 25 15:45 2019 NZDT
Speed:
5.2kg
knts
GPS: 05 47.85N 141 48.01W
Run: 163.1nm (295.2km)
Avg: 6.8knts
24hr: 163.8nm
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 2.5m. Baro 1012mb, a slight increase. Cloud 100%.

It's a bit calmer today, which we welcomed. We're not quite able to make our desired course but are happy to be sailing rather than driving in this latitude. Fun to watch flying fish & seabirds by day, bioluminescence by night.


Sun Nov 24 15:51 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 03 30.15N 141 15.05W
Run: 154.5nm (279.6km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 152.9nm
Weather: Wind SE 18k. Sea SE 2.8m. Baro 1011mb, a decrease of 3 mb over several hours. Cloud 40% with morning squalls.

Yesterday afternoon Art noticed a problem with the gooseneck & we decided to drop the main until we could fix the problem. Fortunately the wind moved SE, so with jib alone we were able to keep on course with a slight loss of speed. This morning a little ingenuity and a big hammer resolved the issue (though with this wind angle, we're staying with just the jib anyway).


Sat Nov 23 15:36 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 01 20.48N 140 40.58W
Run: 175.2nm (317.1km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 176.7nm
Weather: Wind ESE 18k. Sea ESE 1.9m. Baro 1014mb and steady. Cloud 40%.

We crossed the equator last night and are now in the northern hemisphere! Second Wind was in the South Pacific almost exactly 4 1/2 years...We then made a slight course change to NNW and the wind clocked, so we had a delightful downwind day.


Fri Nov 22 15:48 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 01 09.91S 140 18.15W
Run: 172.9nm (312.9km)
Avg: 7.3knts
24hr: 175.8nm
Weather: Wind ENE 19k. Sea ENE 2m. Baro 1014mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 20%.

I had made an error in plotting one of the intermediary waypoints on our route (fortunately not one we're headed for yet). When I corrected it, the overall route was shortened by about 100 miles. Despite things going well, that was good news!


Thu Nov 21 16:12 2019 NZDT
GPS: 03 40.04S 140 16.72W
Run: 185.7nm (336.1km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 184.5nm

Though we're a little more upwind today, the wind strength and waves are a little lighter. We're a bit slower but more comfortable


Wed Nov 20 16:03 2019 NZDT
Speed:
7.2k
knts
GPS: 06 21.26S 140 14.25W
Run: 180.6nm (326.9km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 181.4nm
Weather: Wind E 21k. Sea E 2.4m. Baro 1015mb, a slight increase. Cloud 2\10%.

Conditions are stronger than predicted, but winds are favorable & we're making excellent progress.


Tue Nov 19 16:09 2019 NZDT
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 08 58.08S 140 14.43W
Run: 10nm (18.1km)
Weather: Wind ENE 13k. Sea ENE 1.5m. Baro 1014mb and steady. Cloud 20%.

Off to a great start on our passage to Hawaii!


Wed Nov 13 9:00 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 08 54.954S 140 06.257W
Weather: Wind NE 10k . Sea NNE 0.2m. Baro 1016mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

The fuel line problem appears to be fixed; whew! We're stocking food & fuel, and watching the weather forecasts. Early next week is looking promising, but of course it's too soon to tell.


Fri Nov 8 16:33 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 08 54.954S 140 06.257W
Run: 4.5nm (8.1km)
Weather: Wind ENE 16k outside the anchorage, ENE 8k in the bay. Sea ENE 2.1m outside, 0.5m inside. Baro 1013mb and steady. Cloud 80% with occasional light squalls.

After our record slowest passage in terms of average daily distance made good, we chose landfall at Daniel's Bay to rest in its slightly less rolly location and stretch our legs on the long walk to the waterfall. Missions accomplished, this morning we moved around to Taiohae. There is a long list of tasks to complete prior to our departure for Hawai'i, most important of which is figuring out how air is getting into the fuel lines. Of note: this is our last anchorage in the South Pacific! (Ouch, that hurts.)


Tue Nov 5 16:21 2019 NZDT
GPS: 08 56.675S 140 09.839W
Run: 138.9nm (251.4km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 138nm

What a passage! Instead of a final run with predicted E16 winds, we clawed our way in to Hakatea (Daniel's Bay) with 20k headwinds and big seas. As an added bonus, we have a fuel problem that is causing the engine to stop


Mon Nov 4 16:12 2019 NZDT
Speed:
4.8k
knts
GPS: 10 46.93S 140 59.38W
Run: 78.5nm (142.1km)
Avg: 3.3knts
24hr: 79nm
Weather: Wind NE 12k. Sea NE 1.6m. Baro 1015mb and steady. Cloud 30%.

Last night we made our last long tack toward our destination. We're still close hauled but at least all the miles under the keel are distance made good.


Sun Nov 3 16:21 2019 NZDT
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 11 15.22S 142 02.54W
Run: 83.9nm (151.9km)
Avg: 3.5knts
24hr: 82.9nm
Weather: Wind NE 17k. Sea NE 1.8m. Baro 1015mb and steady. Cloud 80%.

Yesterday we bashed upwind with minimal progress toward our destination. With a slight change of wind angle and speed, we're having to bash harder, but we're able to make necessary easting. A big plus: we got to watch a pod of dolphins play at the bow!


Sat Nov 2 16:03 2019 NZDT
Speed:
6.2k
knts
GPS: 11 01.55S 143 15.45W
Run: 111.8nm (202.4km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 113.2nm
Weather: Wind NE 15k. Sea NE 1.6m. Baro 1015mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 60%.

We finally crossed out of the wide swath of light air into latitudes with more wind predicted. It's a relief to finally do some good sailing, though with all the tacking necessary, landfall will be at least a full day later than we'd hoped.


Fri Nov 1 16:21 2019 NZDT
GPS: 12 28.35S 143 59.75W
Run: 101.4nm (183.5km)
Avg: 4.2knts
24hr: 100.4nm

Today is Halloween, and it's been a day of tricks & treats. Treats: spells of enough wind to do some good sailing, and sighting a group of whales in the distance. Tricks: longer spells of little wind, sometimes ghosting and sometimes burning fuel. No costumes for us tonight, but we'll have chili for dinner (a long family tradition


Thu Oct 31 16:06 2019 NZDT
GPS: 13 24.60S 145 09.18W
Run: 106.7nm (193.1km)
Avg: 4.5knts
24hr: 106.9nm

Winds here are often lighter & more NE this time of year, so we were expecting a slow passage


Wed Oct 30 16:09 2019 NZDT
GPS: 14 26.16S 146 20.50W
Run: 8.1nm (14.7km)

Shortly before noon we exited our final pass in the Dangerous Archipelago


Mon Oct 28 16:39 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 27.203S 146 13.362W
Run: 3.9nm (7.1km)
Weather: Wind ENE 15k. Sea E 0.2m. Baro 1015mb, a slight increase. Cloud 15%.

Kamoka turned out well; Albert, its lone resident, brought us freshly husked coconuts yesterday and we had him over for coffee this morning. After maneuvering around more pearl nets and bommies, we're now anchored near the NE corner of the atoll by Chez Raita. Tonight we'll have our first meal off the boat in over a month, mmmmm!


Sun Oct 27 17:00 2019 NZDT
GPS: 14 30.062S 146 15.170W
Run: 7.4nm (13.4km)

We had a nice time in the village then waited for a day with good visibility before navigating to our next anchorage


Thu Oct 24 16:15 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 32.196S 146 21.409W
Run: 102.8nm (186.1km)
Avg: 4.3knts
24hr: 103.2nm
Weather: Wind E 5k. Sea flat (NE 1m outside the atoll). Baro 1016mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 10%.

Dropped anchor outside the village of Tenukupara in Ahe at 0830. We're in the small inner lagoon, apparently a favorite of Bernard Moitessier; it's fun to know he anchored here! In the next couple of days we'll play in the school and look for some black pearls.


Wed Oct 23 16:21 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 49.18S 147 51.98W
Run: 30nm (54.3km)
Weather: Wind ENE 5k. Sea NE 1.4m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 25%.

En route to Ahe, unfortunately under power (no wind in the forecast for days, and we need to be making gradual progress toward Nuku Hiva). At least it's a nice day for a drive, and we're enjoying reading our books...


Mon Oct 21 17:09 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 00.407S 148 16.301W
Run: 7nm (12.7km)
Weather: Wind ENE 12k. Sea E 0.3m. Baro 1018mb and steady. Cloud 30% with occasional squalls.

We completed our circumnavigation of Tikehau by sailing back to the pass, anchored at Motu Teonai. Depending on the weather forecast, tomorrow we'll either do some fishing and swimming here, or push on to Ahe.


Sat Oct 19 16:27 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 55.658S 148 12.361W
Run: 7.8nm (14.1km)
Weather: Wind NE 15k. Sea ENE 0.5m. Baro 1018mb and steady. Cloud 60%.

We wanted to check out Motu Hiraumaine; turns out it's just a coral spit with a few bushes. There's no wind protection and minimal protection from fetch. That said, Shore Explores on the spit and the nearby reef motu are fascinating!


Thu Oct 17 16:18 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 58.412S 148 05.948W
Run: 11nm (19.9km)
Weather: Wind ENE 13k. Sea ENE 0.2m. Baro 1018mb and steady. Cloud 50% with occasional showers.

Yesterday we had some good snorkeling at Motu Mauu, then anchored off of Tavania Islet for the night. Today we had a beautiful sail up the atoll to Motu Puarua, which is a bird sanctuary. The sight and sound of hundreds? thousands? of terns and frigates is quite something!


Tue Oct 15 16:18 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 06.071S 148 11.864W
Run: 3nm (5.4km)
Weather: Wind NE 15 Sea NE 0.2m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

The wind finally shifted and so did we. After some delightful experiences in Tuherahera village, we moved a short distance up the atoll to Motu Aua.


Thu Oct 10 16:24 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 06.780S 148 14.473W
Run: 49.1nm (88.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 18k. Sea SSE 2.1m outside the atoll, SE 0.4m inside. Baro 1015mb, a decrease of 2mb in the last 10 hours. Cloud 100% with showers and squalls.

A short overnight passage brought us to Tikehau, where we anchored near the wharf at Tuherahera village shortly before the weather deteriorated. Haven't gone ashore yet, but this looks like a good place to be stuck for a few days.


Wed Oct 9 16:30 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 49.376S 148 16.756W
Run: 89.8nm (162.5km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 89.8nm
Weather: Wind SE 5k. Sea SE 2m. Baro 1016, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with sprinkles.

Makatea is a rare raised coral atoll, with no pass, no lagoon, and high steep vertical cliffs. Though it was worth the side trip to see it, we can't recommend it as a stopover. The two moorings are in very good condition, but they are alarmingly close to big surf breaking on rocks.


Tue Oct 8 16:30 2019 NZDT
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 15 30.42S 146 58.19W
Run: 41.7nm (75.5km)
Weather: Wind SE 9k. Sea SSW 1.5m. Baro 1018mb and steady. Cloud 80% with showers and light squalls.

Had an easy exit from Tehere Pass at one hour after low tide, and are now en route to Makatea.


Sun Oct 6 16:24 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 18.379S 146 22.790W
Run: 12.5nm (22.6km)
Weather: Wind NW 6k. Sea flat. Baro 1018mb, an increase of 2mb in 24 hours. Cloud 50% with occasional showers.

Anchored at Roto Ava, a mile from Tehere Pass; still no inhabitants or vessels in sight. Plan A is to snorkel the pass tomorrow, then depart for Makatea the next day.


Sat Oct 5 16:12 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 20.612S 146 11.770W
Run: 15.2nm (27.5km)
Weather: Wind NE 6k. Sea flat. Baro 1016mb, a very slight decrease. Cloud 15%; morning showers, afternoon clearing.

Yesterday we ghosted up the eastern side of the atoll and anchored at Point Teonemahina, the NE corner. This is a magical place, protected by miles of uninhabited motu; we are alone in a blue paradise! For cruisers: the route is free of hazards, as long as one stays on the shore side of the pearl floats. Navionics accurately charts the location of all shallows, though depths are inaccurate ("16 ft" was actually awash).


Thu Oct 3 16:21 2019 NZDT
GPS: 15 33.531S 146 14.564W
Run: 66.1nm (119.6km)

Correction! Last post said 14 36S but that was a typo; we were at 15 36S, Apataki atoll. Sorry! Yesterday we moved up the atoll to Motu Omiro, where we enjoyed exploring coral spits; today we went to the next motu and are anchored in front of the Apataki Careenage at Tamaro. Assam's Pearl Farm is gone; Assam retired and his son & grandson built an impressive shipyard


Sun Sep 29 16:51 2019 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 36.485S 146 20.677W
Run: 182.2nm (329.8km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 178.5nm
Weather: Wind ESE 13k. Sea ESE 0.2m. Baro 1019mb, a decrease of 2mb in 24 hours. Cloud 20%.

We arrived at Apataki's Pakaka Pass 3 hours after our intended transit, but we made it through on a 2k incoming current with no problems. Whew! Now we're anchored near Motu Rua Vahine; not much protection, but not much needed for the next day or so.


Sat Sep 28 15:21 2019 NZST
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 16 30.74S 148 14.25W
Run: 113.1nm (204.7km)
Weather: Wind ENE 9k. Sea ENE 1.2m. Baro 1021mb, a rise of 2mb in 24 hours. Cloud 20%.

Left Papeete yesterday around noon, bound for Apataki. Predicted E15 winds turned out to be NE20's; they've eased but are still from the direction we want to go. We recall that one definition of sailing is going slowly in the wrong direction! That said, it's a lovely day to be out on the ocean.


Thu Sep 19 13:48 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 32.380S 149 34.220W
Run: 4.3nm (7.8km)
Weather: Wind SW 18k. Sea SW 0.2m. Baro 1014, a decrease of 3 mb in the last 12 hours. Cloud 15%.

We moved to Marina de Papeete for pre-departure errands, only to discover that the facilities are under construction and there are no showers, laundry or internet. Bummer!


Sat Sep 14 15:24 2019 NZST
GPS: 17 34.702S 149 37.248W
Run: 14.5nm (26.2km)

We've arrived back in Papeete, completing what turned out to be a wonderful 9-week loop through the Society Islands. We expect to be in this area for a couple of weeks, preparing to sail to the Tuamotus. Right now we're anchored near Marina Taina


Tue Sep 10 15:39 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 28.900S 149 48.927W
Run: 4.1nm (7.4km)
Weather: Wind ENE 15k. Sea ENE 0.2m. Baro 1019mb, a slight increase. Cloud 20%.

After we saw the underwater tikis and fed the stingrays (wow!), we skedaddled back to the more protected anchorage at the NE entrance to Opunohu Bay, then moved this morning to the NE entrance of Cook's Bay. Conditions are predicted to be calm in a couple of days, so we'll head back to Papeete then.


Sun Sep 8 16:18 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 29.203S 149 52.685W
Run: 2.6nm (4.7km)
Weather: Wind E 18k. Sea E 0.3m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

Opunohu Bay was as secure as it was beautiful, and hiking in the valley was excellent. We finally moved back to an outer anchorage, this time slightly west of the village of Papetoai. This anchorage is frequented because it's close to snorkeling destinations (sting ray feeding, underwater tikis), but we're not keen on it; it's exposed and too close to shallows with lots of bombies. Once we've seen the underwater attractions, we'll move somewhere more protected.


Mon Sep 2 15:36 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 30.903S 149 51.135W
Run: 1.6nm (2.9km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea flat. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 100%.

With fairly strong winds predicted for the next few days, we anchored at the head of Opunohu Bay. We'll probably get wind bullets here but we're in 20' of water with a good holding on a mud bottom. We would have had to move anyway, as work is being started to place moorings where we had been anchored; also, it's not snorkeling weather for a while. In this anchorage we have access to hiking trails and a shrimp farm (ooh, I can make a shrimp dinner for my birthday!).


Fri Aug 30 15:12 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 29.506S 149 51.113W
Run: 95.1nm (172.1km)
Weather: Wind NW 8k. Sea NW 0.7m. Baro 1017mb, a slight increase. Cloud 5%.

We were sorry to leave Huahine so soon, but it was a good choice: rather than (the normal) hard upwind beat back to Moorea, we had a calm overnight sail with winds mostly behind us. We're anchored near the entrance to Opunohu Bay and expect to be in Moorea for at least a week.


Wed Aug 28 15:00 2019 NZST
GPS: 16 42.750S 151 02.347W
Run: 4.9nm (8.9km)

We expected to stay at Huahine for longer, but incoming winds will give us a much easier sail back to Moorea


Tue Aug 27 14:54 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 46.949S 151 01.723W
Run: 2.8nm (5.1km)
Weather: Wind SE 6k. Sea calm. Baro 1019mb, a slight increase. Cloud 30%.

On a mooring at the head of Port Bourayne, where there is a rarity of rarities in FP: 1) a sand beach, that 2) is public. Picnic on a beach towel, woo-hoo!


Sun Aug 25 15:33 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 48.616S 150 59.822W
Run: 31nm (56.1km)
Weather: Wind ENE 9k. Sea NE 1.4m, flat in the anchorage. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 5%.

Had a pleasant light upwind sail to Huahine, where we're on a mooring at lovely Avea Bay (anchoring discouraged here also). We plan to spend several days at this island, exploring anchorages we bypassed 4 years ago.


Fri Aug 23 15:30 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 38.502S 151 25.869W
Run: 8.7nm (15.7km)
Weather: Wind E 12k. Sea E 0.1m. Baro 1019mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

We heard the best poisson cru in the Leeward Islands is at Snack Mac China in Haamene Bay, so we made a side trip there for lunch; well worth it! Now we're anchored near the reef at Motu Mahaea.


Thu Aug 22 16:09 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 36.203S 151 33.416W
Run: 17.3nm (31.3km)
Weather: Wind NE 12k. Sea NE 0.3m. Baro 1020mb, a increase of 2mb in the last 12 hours. Cloud 20%.

Before we leave this lagoon for the last time, we had to return to Motu Tautau and swim with all the fish in the Coral River one more time. What a delight!


Wed Aug 21 15:21 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 48.697S 151 24.710W
Run: 12.5nm (22.6km)
Weather: Wind NE 8k. Sea NE 0.2m. Baro 1018mb, a increase of 3mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 100%, light rain.

We moved to Faaroa Bay on the east side of Raiatea for a brief rendezvous with some new friends. It's still not swimming weather, but a plus: the rain is washing the salt from yesterday's passage off our deck and windows.


Tue Aug 20 17:09 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 39.608S 151 30.907W
Run: 19.8nm (35.8km)
Weather: Wind ENE 20k . Sea NE 2m. Baro 1015mb, a decrease of 5mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 30%.

We punched our way back to Taha'a and found a calm anchorage in Patii Bay. Conditions below are outside the lagoon.


Sun Aug 18 15:12 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 31.015S 151 46.405W
Run: 1.5nm (2.7km)
Weather: Wind E 18k with frequent gusts 20-25. Sea ENE 0.3m. Baro 1022mb, a slight increase. Cloud 30%.

We are ready to leave Bora Bora but are on a mooring in the lee of Motu Toopua, waiting for more favorable wind and swell conditions outside the lagoon. (Why head into a 3m washing machine if we don't have to?)


Fri Aug 16 15:57 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 30.047S 151 45.492W
Run: 2.1nm (3.8km)
Weather: Wind E 13k. Sea ENE 0.2m. Baro 1019mb and steady. Cloud 20%.

Bora Bora is our turn-around point, so we are back at Vaitape to reprovision and start heading east. Of note: Anchoring is now strongly discouraged at BB. Moorings have been installed in the popular anchorages and a single company is overseeing all of them (including the ones formerly associated with BBYC, Mai Kai, and Bloody Mary's). The commercialization is a disappointment, but given the exponential increase in cruising and particularly charter boats here, the change is understandable.


Wed Aug 14 14:39 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 31.559S 151 44.497W
Run: 2.2nm (4km)
Weather: Wind ENE 16k. Sea ENE 0.2m. Baro 1019mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

The Taurere anchorage was comfortable in stronger winds, and when the wind eased we had fun swimming with rays. Now we're on a mooring near Bloody Mary's, where we will celebrate our 45th anniversary (a few days early).


Wed Aug 7 15:09 2019 NZST
GPS: 16 31.807S 151 42.536W
Run: 2.6nm (4.7km)

We moved to Taurere, an excellent anchorage. It is reasonably well protected from the trades, with less current and less traffic than the other anchorages


Mon Aug 5 15:54 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 29.525S 151 42.256W
Run: 3.7nm (6.7km)
Weather: Wind E 6k. Sea calm in the lagoon. Baro 1019mb and steady. Cloud 10%.

After completing some errands in Vaitape, we moved around to the east side of Bora Bora and are anchored near Motu Tupe. It was a tricky entrance (shallow with lots of bommies) and there is small boat traffic to/from the nearby resorts, but it is a pretty and pleasant anchorage.


Sat Aug 3 14:21 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 29.432S 151 45.629W
Run: 1.7nm (3.1km)
Weather: Wind E 10-15k. Sea E 0.1m. Baro 1018 and steady. Cloud 50%.

Winds have eased so we moved to a mooring at the Bora Bora Yacht Club, where we can walk into town for errands and internet.


Tue Jul 30 6:00 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 30.790S 151 46.175W
Run: 18.6nm (33.7km)
Weather: Outside the lagoon winds are ESE 22k and waves ESE 2.5m, but the water in this anchorage is calm; wind is S 8, 15k in squalls. Baro 1020mb, a slight increase. Cloud 95% with frequent squalls.

In current weather we had 3 options at Taha'a: 1) endure wind bullets in a bay anchorage, 2) endure rough fetch in a reef anchorage, 3) sail to Bora Bora. We chose Door #3. We're anchored in the lee of Motu Toopoa, where we feel blissfully secure.


Sat Jul 27 14:45 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 38.776S 151 31.500W
Run: 3.6nm (6.5km)
Weather: Outside the bay winds are SE 20k and waves 0.5m, but the water in the anchorage is calm; wind is ENE 8 with occasional gusts. Baro 1017mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 70%.

After one last fabulous float at the Coral River, we relocated to Hurepiti Bay. It's a bit shallower and feels calmer than Tapuamu Bay, where many other boats are headed. During these next few windy days, Art will do some rewiring of the watermaker, and we hope to take a long hike.


Fri Jul 26 14:54 2019 NZST
GPS: 16 36.216S 151 33.392W
Run: 13.2nm (23.9km)

With stronger winds predicted in a couple of days, we wanted to be on the leeward side of an island; so we sailed back to Taha'a. We're anchored at Motu Tautau, near the Coral Garden


Thu Jul 25 14:36 2019 NZST
GPS: 16 44.826S 151 25.557W
Run: 5nm (9.1km)

Anchored at Motu Taoru, where we had a terrific snorkel in the pass. We saw several fishes we'd never seen before (after all this time, even one new species is a delightful surprise), and a very large eel


Mon Jul 22 15:24 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 49.119S 151 24.952W
Run: 3.3nm (6km)
Weather: Wind NE 12k. Sea NE 0.2m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 80%.

We're anchored at Faaroa Bay, where there is a fun dinghy river trip. We're on the windward side of Raiatea, but this is a secure anchorage (35', mud).


Sat Jul 20 14:45 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 49.827S 151 22.008W
Run: 19nm (34.4km)
Weather: Wind ESE 16k. Sea ESE 0.2m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 70%.

At Opoa Bay on Raiatea to visit the impressive Taputapuatea Marae. It's not a good anchorage (very deep until right next to shore) and one of their two moorings is nearly chafed through. We'll move on tomorrow, but the marae was worth the white knuckles!


Tue Jul 16 10:03 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 36.868S 151 32.725W
Run: 4.9nm (8.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 10k. Sea SE 0.2m. Baro 1018, rising slightly. Cloud 10%.

Heiva dances, performed by all the island's villages, were terrific! Mooring buoys at Patio had disappeared since our last visit, but we've moved on to Tapuamu and their 3 moorings are still intact.


Sun Jul 14 13:51 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 34.687S 151 28.955W
Run: 5.6nm (10.1km)
Weather: Wind E 8k. Sea rippled in the lagoon. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 40%.

Snorkeling around the motu was fantastic! We moved on to Patio for the last 2 days of their Heiva festival (dancing and food). The moorings are gone so we anchored east of town.


Sat Jul 13 15:15 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 38.455S 151 25.728W
Run: 121.4nm (219.7km)
Weather: Wind S 8k. Sea S 1m outside the reef, rippled in the lagoon. Baro 1016, decreasing slightly. Cloud 10%.

After a delightfully laid back stay at Moorea, we had a calm overnight passage to Taha'a. We're anchored near Motu Mahaea.


Sun Jul 7 15:54 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 28.894S 149 48.893W
Run: 16.9nm (30.6km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea 1.5m mixed outside the reef, with slight waves in the anchorage. Baro 1016mb, decreasing slightly. Cloud 90%.

Strong winds and reports of crowded anchorages at Moorea kept us in Papeete an extra week. (After being hit by a vessel dragging anchor last year, we had no desire to get into a similar situation!) We finally made the short trip to Cook's Bay (Moorea) today, where the backdrop scenery is truly awesome.


Tue Jun 25 14:54 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 33.378S 149 34.221W
Run: 3.6nm (6.5km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea nil. Baro 1022mb, increasing slightly. Cloud 15%.

We moved to the Marina de Papeete, right downtown. We now have our carte de sejeour in hand, so our long stay visa is now official! Plans are to stay through their Autonomy Day celebrations this weekend, then sail to nearby Moorea early next week.


Sat Jun 15 15:27 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 34.524S 149 37.290W
Run: 116.4nm (210.7km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 112nm
Weather: Wind SE 5k. Sea NE 1m outside the reef, rippled inside. Baro 1018mb, decreasing slightly. Cloud 40%.

Papeete is much more crowded than when we were here 4 years ago! Both marinas are full and vessels are anchored all along the inner channel. We found a spot to drop the hook south of downtown; inconvenient, but it will have to do for now. Since we have to finalize the paperwork for our long-stay visa here, we will probably be in Papeete for a while. No chance of getting bored, though; we passed up museums, gardens, etc. our first time around, so there is plenty to see while we're waiting.


Fri Jun 14 14:30 2019 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 19 12.2S 149 09.9W
Run: 179.4nm (324.7km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 178.3nm
Weather: Wind E 20k. Sea E 2.6m. Baro 1021mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 60% with occasional squalls.

We have great wind for our course, and are having to reduce sail in order to make our final approach to Tahiti in daylight tomorrow. Is that a hot shower I hear calling?


Thu Jun 13 14:21 2019 NZST
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 21 41.2S 148 21.5W
Run: 149.9nm (271.3km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 152.8nm
Weather: Wind E 17k. Sea E 3m. Baro 1023mb and steady. Cloud 80%.

Easterlies filled in late yesterday afternoon and we've been at a gallop ever since. We had a Rainbow Morning: numerous rain showers in the vicinity, but enough sunshine to light them up with colors.


Wed Jun 12 14:48 2019 NZST
Speed:
4k
knts
GPS: 23 46.0S 147 41.6W
Run: 6.8nm (12.3km)
Weather: Wind ENE 7k. Sea ENE 1m waves over SW 3.8m swells. Baro 1024mb, decreasing slowly. Cloud 95% with light squalls.

We thoroughly enjoyed Raivavae, particularly our long walks around & over the island, and feasting on pamplemousse! Now it's time to move on; we departed for Papeete this morning.


Mon May 27 14:57 2019 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 23 51.932S 147 41.347W
Run: 115.2nm (208.5km)
Avg: 4.8knts
24hr: 114nm
Weather: Wind ESE 18k with frequent gusts to 25. Sea E .2m. Baro 1020mb and steady. Cloud 90%.

Landfall! Given yesterday's conditions we weren't sure we would arrive today, but overnight the wind became a consistent ESE 25-30k so we managed to make it. The anchorage is far from calm (see below) but we set an anchor alarm and took a very long nap! We're looking forward to exploring Raivavae and may stay here a couple of weeks; I'll file YIT reports again when we start sailing north to Tahiti.


Sun May 26 14:42 2019 NZST
Speed:
4k
knts
GPS: 25 27.7S 148 13.2W
Run: 145.5nm (263.4km)
Avg: 6knts
24hr: 142.8nm
Weather: Wind changing frequently, NNE through SE; average 12k with 25k in squalls. Sea mixed 3m. Baro 1020mb and steady. Cloud 100% with frequent squalls and rain.

Yesterday afternoon we encountered SE winds precisely on cue and we were able to execute Plan A (keep same direction with sails up, directly to Raivavae). Apparently one of the weather gods decided things were going too smoothly, as today has been a mess! No dependable wind speed or direction, messy seas, lots of rain (and lots of sail changes).


Sat May 25 14:15 2019 NZST
Speed:
4.7k
knts
GPS: 27 29.4S 148 51.0W
Run: 136.7nm (247.4km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 147.5nm
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea SSW 3m. Baro 1021mb and steady. Cloud 95%.

Ugh, still motoring. We should reach the band of easterlies any time now...


Fri May 24 16:00 2019 NZST
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 29 21.9S 149 33.8W
Run: 129.7nm (234.8km)
Avg: 5.4knts
24hr: 128.6nm
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea SSW 4m. Baro 1021mb and steady. Cloud 70%.

Gribs have been remarkably accurate on this passage, so we banked on being able to drive north in an upcoming calm. Sure enough, winds died as predicted; we fired up the engine and are heading slightly east of the rhumb line to Raivavae. Even with no wind for a while, the swells are still magnificent!


Thu May 23 15:48 2019 NZST
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 31 06.3S 150 22.7W
Run: 155.1nm (280.7km)
Avg: 6.5knts
24hr: 157.1nm
Weather: Wind SW 12k. Sea SSW 4m. Baro 1020mb, rising slightly. Cloud 35%.

Soon we'll need to turn more northerly, but for now winds are still taking us ENE rather than NE. Still moving well though, it's quite a fun sleigh ride downwind on these large swells! We've started to see a few seabirds again, a different species this time. It sounded like they were speaking French.


Wed May 22 16:06 2019 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 31 51.7S 152 51.3W
Run: 151.2nm (273.7km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 146.3nm
Weather: Wind SW 15k. Sea SSW 4m. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 30%.

So far we had been able to sail the direction we wanted, but the most recent wind change meant we are having to head off a bit. That's called a passage, though, and so far we're still making progress, so no complaints on this ship!


Tue May 21 15:18 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 32 29.7S 155 19.7W
Run: 180.7nm (327.1km)
Avg: 7.9knts
24hr: 188.6nm
Weather: Wind WSW 20k. Sea WSW 3.3m and building. Baro 1017mb and steady. Cloud 25%.

We're riding the periphery of a low and having a great run! It's a bit warmer as we work our way north, but there aren't nearly as many seabirds.


Mon May 20 16:18 2019 NZST
GPS: 34 01.3S 157 52.0W
Run: 142.1nm (257.2km)
Avg: 5.7knts
24hr: 137.5nm

Sailing was slow overnight but picked up briskly in the morning. Conventional advice for this passage is to wait until reaching 155W before turning north, but gribs showed turning earlier could be advantageous


Sun May 19 15:30 2019 NZST
GPS: 35 04.3S 160 00.8W
Run: 136.6nm (247.2km)
Avg: 5.7knts
24hr: 137.5nm

Yesterday afternoon's succession of strong squalls gave way to a mostly clear night with frequent gusts over 35k. The full moon on 4.5 m seas was a sight to behold! As the center of the high approached, winds calmed but seas are still large, so we're motorsailing for a while to keep from banging around so much. We're paying tribute to passing the halfway point (in terms of miles) by having a NZ breakfast and a FP dinner. (Not as exciting as it sounds


Sat May 18 15:39 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 35 37.7S 162 20.3W
Run: 139.9nm (253.2km)
Weather: Wind SW22. Sea SW 4.5m. Baro 1011 mb, rising gradually. Cloud 99%.

Continuing to enjoy the seabirds and large waves, and making good easterly progress. Position reports are from noon and this was our "base rate"; we spent the afternoon running downwind in front of frequent heavy squalls.


Sat May 18 15:39 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 35 45.6S 164 49.5W
Run: 169nm (305.9km)
Avg: 3.6knts
24hr: 86.3nm
Weather: Wind W22k. Sea WNW 4m. Baro 1007mb, decreasing gradually. Cloud 40% with light squalls.

Winds were 25-30k overnight with gusts and squalls of winds 35-40k. We were glad we'd dropped to 3rd reef before dark so the feisty night wasn't problematic. We're also grateful that the wind is behind us, and we're making good progress. *This report may not have been filed properly on 17 May so I'm sending it again on 18 May (NZ date).


Fri May 17 17:42 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.8k
knts
No position sent.
Weather: Wind W22k. Sea WNW 4m. Baro 1007mb, decreasing gradually. Cloud 40% with light squalls.

Winds were 25-30k overnight with gusts and squalls of winds 35-40k. We were glad we'd dropped to 3rd reef before dark so the feisty night wasn't problematic. We're also grateful that the wind is behind us, and we're making good progress.


Thu May 16 16:39 2019 NZST
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 35 58.5S 167 49.9W
Run: 115.7nm (209.4km)
Avg: 4.9knts
24hr: 118.7nm
Weather: Wind W20. Sea W 2.2m. Baro 1012mb, decreasing gradually. Cloud 30%.

We came a bit south to be ready for predicted westerlies, and are now on a downwind run with main on 2nd reef.


Wed May 15 17:15 2019 NZST
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 35 31.0S 169 48.9W
Run: 129.9nm (235.1km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 126.5nm
Weather: Wind light and variable. Sea S 3.4m. Baro 1018.5mb, a slight decrease. Cloud 30%.

Motoring in virtually no wind and beautiful swells. An albatross has visited a few times today, along with other seabirds; marvelous! Art was a carpenter at sea, repairing a hinge that broke on our companionway door.


Tue May 14 16:36 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 35 42.6S 172 06.9W
Run: 133.4nm (241.5km)
Avg: 5.6knts
24hr: 133.7nm
Weather: Wind SSE 22k. Sea S 3m. Baro 1020, rising gradually. Cloud 70%.

Squalls with 35-40k winds and heavy rain appeared overnight, but the old gals were primed for the event and came through in style (Second Wind down to just inner foresail, crew in foulies). Wind is backing, seas are getting rougher; it's a frisky ride but not a bad one.


Mon May 13 16:39 2019 NZST
GPS: 36 03.7S 174 27.5W
Run: 151.9nm (274.9km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151nm

The low pressure system arrived punctually at midnight, at which point we were very glad that 1)we are members of the Reef Early, Reef Deep Club, and 2)we weren't any closer to the center of the low. Right know we're just trying to keep Second Wind at the most advantageous angle to the waves. (And sadly


Sun May 12 16:30 2019 NZST
GPS: 35 59.9S 177 10.5W
Run: 153.5nm (277.8km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 153.5nm

Still making good time, and trying to best position ourselves for the low pressure system soon to arrive. Ideally we'll end up near the top of it, not down in it! We were intrigued by a small land bird that found its way into our cockpit, at least 400 miles from home. When it flew away we were concerned it would perish, but a couple hours later it returned


Sat May 11 16:30 2019 NZST
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 35 59.7S 179 55.2W
Run: 149.1nm (269.9km)
Avg: 6.2knts
24hr: 147.9nm
Weather: Wind WNW 12k. Sea WNW 1.2 m. Baro 1028 and steady. Cloud 10%.

The strategy was to sail ESE but since the wind backed, we're able to head east at best. But no complaints, we're moving nicely (and the fortune cookie said this heading may put us in a better position for the incoming low).


Fri May 10 16:18 2019 NZST
Speed:
6.2k
knts
GPS: 36 06.9S 177 24.9E
Run: 174.5nm (315.8km)
Weather: Wind N 10k. Sea N 1m. Baro 1027, an increase of 2 mb over the last 24 hours. Cloud 40%.

We've had breezes of 10-20k and mostly sunny skies; what a great start on our passage to Raivavae!


Sun Nov 11 17:51 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 43.691S 174 20.028E
Run: 13.7nm (24.8km)
Weather: Wind SW 8k. Sea nil. Baro 1024, an increase of 4mb in 24 hours. Cloud 90%.

We anchored at Urquharts Bay last night so we could ride the rising current up the river to Whangarei this morning. It's great to be back at Riverside Drive Marina, our home away from home.


Tue Nov 6 16:45 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 37.026S 174 32.118E
Run: 28.7nm (51.9km)
Weather: Wind NE 8k. Sea NE 0.2m. Baro 1021, a slight increase. Cloud 40%.

We are gradually making our way to Whangarei and are now anchored at Tutukaka. Unlike other recent anchorages, this one has good internet access: a blessing and a curse. I guess I'll have to get some work done rather than go hiking!


Sat Nov 3 21:39 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 14.958S 174 17.815E
Run: 4nm (7.2km)
Weather: Wind WNW 15k. Sea NW 0.3m, nil in the bay. Baro 1020, a decrease of 5 mb over the last 24 hours. Cloud 35%.

We had SW 35 two days ago, and NW 35 is forecast for tonight. In between gales we had a great time at Urupukapuka Island, with a great hike under sunny skies. We took the opportunity early this morning to scoot around Cape Brett and are now tucked into Whangamumu Harbour for the next few days.


Wed Oct 31 22:00 2018 NZDT
GPS: 35 14.799S 174 13.615E
Run: 2.2nm (4km)

We anchored briefly at Paihia for provisions and are now in Parorenui Bay. A Parade of Gales is forecast for the next several days, so we may shuttle between this anchorage


Sun Oct 28 19:15 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 13.790S 174 11.647E
Run: 7.3nm (13.2km)
Weather: Wind NNE 10k. Sea N 1m in the bay, nil in the anchorage. Baro 1002 and falling steadily. Cloud 70%.

We left the protection and expense of the nice marina and headed out to Moturua Island. The small bay next to us is best situated for the strong incoming northerlies but it was full when we arrived, so we are hunkered down in Hahangarua Bay for the next few days.


Wed Oct 24 22:33 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 19.019S 174 07.227E
Run: 114nm (206.3km)
Avg: 4.4knts
24hr: 104.6nm
Weather: Wind N 7k. Sea nil. Baro 1023. Cloud 30%.

We were tied to the Customs dock in Opua by 1000, almost but not quite 7 full days after we weighed anchor in Vanuatu. We enjoyed greeting people we've gotten to know in our several stops here, and are now looking forward to a good night's sleep! It was a fast trip but a wet one, so we'll spend a few days getting the boat and its contents dried & aired ouy, then head to anchorages in the Bay of Islands.


Tue Oct 23 20:24 2018 NZDT
Speed:
3.2k
knts
GPS: 33 45.3S 173 28.6E
Run: 138.9nm (251.4km)
Avg: 5.5knts
24hr: 132nm
Weather: Wind SE 6k. Sea NE 0.8m. Baro 1027. Cloud 5%.

Wind and waves calmed considerably throughout the night. By morning we were sailing very slowly and slightly off course, but we aren't in a hurry and chose to simply enjoy a beautiful morning on the ocean. What a sweet sail! The engine went on after lunch, when the breeze dropped below 5k; we'll still make it to Opua by midday tomorrow. We've already been welcomed to NZ waters by 2 whales near the boat, and a green flash at sunset!


Mon Oct 22 19:09 2018 NZDT
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 31 48.1S 172 54.9E
Run: 171.1nm (309.7km)
Avg: 7.1knts
24hr: 171.5nm
Weather: Wind ESE 13k. Sea E 1.8m. Baro 1027. Cloud 60%.

Morning had clouds and light rain, but by this noon report we had gray skies behind us and blue ahead. Surely we are going in the right direction!


Sun Oct 21 19:12 2018 NZDT
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 29 24.2S 172 12.3E
Run: 176.8nm (320km)
Avg: 7.4knts
24hr: 176.4nm
Weather: Wind ENE 18k. Sea ENE 1.9m. Baro 1026. Cloud 40%.

And on the fifth day, we were resurrected: sky appeared and waves abated. We raised full sails, we are dry, and we are enjoying the ride!


Sat Oct 20 19:09 2018 NZDT
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 26 55.8S 171 27.9E
Run: 152.7nm (276.4km)
Avg: 6.4knts
24hr: 154.6nm
Weather: Wind E 23k. Sea E 2.3m. Baro 1024. Cloud 100%.

So far this passage has been unappealing but efficient. Dousing waves, cloud cover and rain are balanced by being able to sail the rhumb line to NZ.


Fri Oct 19 19:27 2018 NZDT
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 24 46.3S 170 56.5E
Run: 147.1nm (266.3km)
Avg: 6.2knts
24hr: 148.3nm
Weather: Wind E 23k. Sea E 2.8m. Baro 1020, rising slightly as we gradually get closer to the high. Cloud 100%.

Much of last night saw winds in the 30's and rain. We eased off our course a bit to minimize bashing, and went from 2nd to 3rd reef at 0400. We went back to 2nd reef at midday, but will lower to 3rd again this evening since indications are we have another squally night ahead.


Thu Oct 18 19:39 2018 NZDT
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 22 40.0S 170 35.9E
Run: 166.5nm (301.4km)
Avg: 6.6knts
24hr: 158.6nm
Weather: Wind E 22k. Sea E 2.8m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 100%, occasional rain.

Conditions overnight were rowdy; we were relieved when the wind and waves backed a bit so the ride isn't quite as rough. Some excitement this morning: with a loud shattering sound followed by wild flogging of the foresail, the aft starboard winch broke! Looks like Art may get his wish for an electric winch this year after all...


Wed Oct 17 18:27 2018 NZDT
GPS: 20 22.5S 169 48.0E
Run: 9.5nm (17.2km)

Bound for Opua! We would have departed this morning regardless, since wind patterns for the overall passage looked favorable


Sat Oct 13 19:09 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 14.373S 169 46.794E
Run: 80.2nm (145.2km)
Avg: 3.5knts
24hr: 83.7nm
Weather: Wind SE 20k. Sea SE 1m. Baro 1018, a slight increase. Cloud 10%.

We had a very good sail from Vila, and arrived at Aneityum just as the strong winds started to kick up. After a few last-minute chores like stowing the dinghy for a long-distance passage and pre-cooking some meals, we'll be ready for the Big Leap to NZ. Departure could be anywhere between a day and a week from now, depending on incoming weather.


Fri Oct 12 20:09 2018 NZDT
Speed:
6.8k
knts
GPS: 19 20.2S 169 00.3E
Run: 119nm (215.4km)
Weather: Wind E 14k. Sea E 0.8m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 15%.

We crammed a lot of tasks into a shortened time frame in Port Vila so we could take advantage of reasonable conditions to sail to Aneityum, >180 miles to windward. So far we've had excellent sailing!


Tue Oct 9 20:48 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 44.727S 168 18.743E
Run: 4.9nm (8.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 8k. Sea nil. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 100%.

On a mooring in Port Vila, getting ready for the passage to NZ. Depending on longer term forecasts, we're hoping to sail to Aneityum in a couple of days, then head to NZ from there.


Mon Oct 8 14:21 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 41.505S 168 15.878E
Run: 76nm (137.6km)
Weather: Wind E 10k. Sea SE 0.5m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 100%.

Anchored in Mele Bay, gathering energy after our overnight sail from Epi. We'll move to a mooring in Port Vila harbor early tomorrow morning to start prepping for the upcoming passage back to NZ.


Thu Oct 4 22:51 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 35.807S 168 09.796E
Run: 51.9nm (93.9km)
Weather: Wind SSE 8k. Sea SSW 0.7m. Baro 1013 and steady. Cloud 90%.

We'd planned to stay in Vanuatu for 6 weeks, but the early start to the cyclone season caused us to decide to depart earlier. We are now working our way back to Port Vila, with a pleasant stop at Lamen Bay on Epi Island.


Thu Oct 4 22:51 2018 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 24.986S 167 24.188E
Run: 5.4nm (9.8km)
Weather: Wind SW 10k. Sea WSW 1m. Baro 1013 and steady. Cloud 30%.

(Our SSB was temporarily out of commission so this report is 2 days old.) When the wind and rain finally eased, we moved 5 miles north to Munvet Point. Aside from an uncomfortable WSW swell, the anchorage was wonderful: interesting beaches & caves, and outstanding snorkeling.


Tue Sep 25 18:18 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 29.130S 167 26.425E
Run: 92.3nm (167.1km)
Weather: Wind SE 5k and seas nil in the anchorage; outside, wind is SE 20k with SE 2m seas. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 100% with occasional rain.

We had an excellent downwind sail overnight to Metenovor Bay on the southwest side of Malekula Island (also known, appropriately, as Southwest Bay). It's a large bay with many villages, and we are the only cruising boat anchored here. We plan to spend the next several days visiting places ashore while waiting out this spell of rainy wind/windy rain.


Sat Sep 22 15:54 2018 NZST
GPS: 17 33.154S 168 16.845E
Run: 9.7nm (17.6km)

Conditions are stronger outside the harbor (winds 18-20k and seas 1.5m) but Sema Bay, inside Havannah Harbor, is calm


Fri Sep 21 18:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 41.571S 168 15.925E
Run: 4.8nm (8.7km)
Weather: Wind ESE 12k. Seas ESE 0.1m. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 100%.

Anchored at Hideaway, just an hour outside of Port Vila. We'll watch the beach restaurant's Friday night fire show (from the boat; the dinghy is stowed for travel), then move around to Havannah Harbor tomorrow.


Thu Sep 20 10:06 2018 NZST
GPS: 17 44.713S 168 18.755E
Run: 87.5nm (158.4km)

We arrived in Port Vila on Saturday but neglected to post anything


Thu Sep 13 18:48 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 49.300S 169 00.789E
Run: 57.9nm (104.8km)
Weather: Wind SE 23k. Sea SE 2.4m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 20%.

After a marvelous stay at Port Resolution, we had a spirited downwind run to Dillon Bay on Erromango Island. Open water conditions are feisty but the anchorage is relatively calm.


Mon Sep 10 18:51 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 19 31.488S 169 29.725E
Run: 147.6nm (267.2km)
Avg: 5.8knts
24hr: 138.6nm
Weather: Wind SE 9k. Sea SE rippled. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 30%.

Made landfall at Port Resolution on Tanna at 1430 local time. It was an outstanding passage and we look forward to a few days of activities here, including a hike and a trip to the active volcano.


Sun Sep 9 17:18 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.5k
knts
GPS: 19 09.4S 171 43.5E
Run: 176.9nm (320.2km)
Avg: 7.2knts
24hr: 172.2nm
Weather: Wind SE 12k. Sea SE 1.2m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 5%.

A perfect sailing day! We're glad Camden is getting a day of passage-making at its best. Okay, so no fish on the line yet...but everything else is ideal.


Sat Sep 8 16:39 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.2k
knts
GPS: 18 33.6S 174 21.3E
Run: 172.6nm (312.4km)
Avg: 7.1knts
24hr: 171.5nm
Weather: Wind SSE 17k. Sea SSE 2m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 25%.

We had several hours of winds over 20k and seas up to 3m, so Camden's first night on an ocean passage was pretty boisterous! He's doing great and we're all enjoying the voyage.


Fri Sep 7 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 17 59.8S 176 55.0E
Run: 35nm (63.4km)
Weather: Wind SW 15k. Sea SW 1.3m. Baro 1014 and rising slowly. Cloud 100% with occasional rain.

An invigorating start to our passage to Vanuatu with Camden!


Sun Sep 2 16:36 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 45.340S 177 23.094E
Run: 4.6nm (8.3km)
Weather: Wind SW 11k. Seas SW 0.2m. Baro 1016. Cloud 90%.

Moved back to Denarau, where we'll spend the next few days preparing for our son's arrival. We're excited about his visit, and about him coming with us on our passage to Vanuatu in about a week!


Thu Aug 30 16:48 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 41.374S 177 23.786E
Run: 38.7nm (70km)
Weather: Wind N 20k. Seas E 0.2m. Baro 1014. Cloud 10%.

Playing hide and seek with the wind! Had a great sail back to the mainland, where we're riding out the northerlies at the north end of Nadi Bay. Tomorrow we'll move around to Saweni Bay, hopefully before the strong southerlies arrive.


Tue Aug 28 16:39 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 09.583S 177 12.311E
Run: 23.3nm (42.2km)
Weather: Wind NE 18k with stronger gusts. Seas NE 0.8m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 20%.

We were headed for Manta Ray Pass but the predicted easterlies were bending south into that anchorage, so we diverted to Cuvu Bay on the south end of Naviti Island. We'll do some projects here for a couple of days, and with a bit of luck we might still be able to dinghy over to the pass for a swim.


Mon Aug 27 16:48 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 27.563S 177 02.680E
Run: 23.5nm (42.5km)
Weather: Wind NNW 8k. Sea NNW 0.2m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 40%.

With calmer conditions the Musket Cove anchorage felt better, and the shore facilities were attractive. However, with some strong winds predicted in a couple of days, we decided to move on. The Navadra anchorage is deep and rolly, but has gorgeous beaches and sunset views; a good stop!


Sun Aug 26 17:12 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 46.323S 177 11.159E
Run: 16.2nm (29.3km)
Weather: Wind S 18k. Seas S 0.4m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 40%.

It took us 3 seasons in Fiji to finally make it to Musket Cove! We're not sure why this place is so popular; the anchorage is windy, deep, close to reefs, and very crowded. We'll check out a bit of the shore scene tomorrow, but plan to move on soon.


Mon Aug 20 17:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 38.629S 177 23.571E
Run: 29.1nm (52.7km)
Weather: Wind NNW 8k. Seas nil. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 5%.

Robinson Crusoe Island did indeed have a marvelous Dance & Fire Show! Now we're anchored in Saweni Bay, our home base for the next several days: we'll pick up the replacement stanchions shipped from the USA to Fiji, then put the boat back to pre-ferry collision condition. En route we stopped at Denarau and had a lovely evening with Gordon of S/V Ms Murphy and his friend Sue. It was fun to connect person to person, rather than boat to boat as we did on that fateful night in Suva!


Fri Aug 17 17:57 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 03.131S 177 17.146E
Run: 51.3nm (92.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 17k. Seas SE 1.6m. Baro 1014, a decrease of 3mb over 6 hours. Cloud 50%.

Had a wonderful sail to Likuri Island, a.k.a. Robinson Crusoe Island. Many people have told us they have the best fire show anywhere, so we'll celebrate our 44th anniversary tomorrow night in flames!


Tue Aug 14 16:33 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 22.765S 177 59.202E
Run: 32.7nm (59.2km)
Weather: Wind SW 11k. Seas SW 0.3m. Baro 1015.5, a rise of 2mb over 6 hours. Cloud 100%.

Finally escaped Suva City! Happily anchored at Yanuca in Beqa Lagoon; we're the only ones here and hope it will warm up enough for a swim tomorrow.


Thu Aug 2 18:24 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 06.578S 178 23.765E
Run: 47.2nm (85.4km)
Weather: Wind SE 12k. Seas SE 1m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 80%.

We would love to have stayed at Namara indefinitely, but unfortunately business drew us back to Suva. We'll be here at least a week, for dentist visit(s) and trying (still) to get reimbursed for the ferry collision damage.


Wed Aug 1 8:18 2018 NZST
GPS: 18 47.193S 178 29.756E
Run: 2.6nm (4.7km)

No overnight sail this time; just 3 nm to Namara. A beautiful sandy beach and snorkeling right off the boat beckon


Sun Jul 29 17:39 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 45.378S 178 31.216E
Run: 71nm (128.5km)
Weather: Wind SE 5k. Sea calm. Baro 1018 and steady. Cloud 90%.

We arrived at Draveuni in the Astrolabe Reef after another overnight sail, hoping to snorkel for a few days here. Some forecasts say it will be too windy for comfortable swimming, others say it will be okay. We're voting for okay.


Fri Jul 27 18:51 2018 NZST
GPS: 17 59.52S 179 14.59E
Run: 84.8nm (153.5km)

An overnight sail brought us to Herald Bay on Gau. Sevusevu in the village of Saiweke was interesting; the elderly chief was listening to BBC news on his radio (no internet here) when we arrived. He is astute and up to date with current world events


Mon Jul 23 19:21 2018 NZST
GPS: 16 56.106S 179 53.850E
Run: 29.2nm (52.9km)

Anchored in Paradise


Sun Jul 22 19:45 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 31.574S 179 59.363W
Run: 6.5nm (11.8km)
Weather: Wind ESE 16k. Seas ESE 0.8. Baro 1016, a slight decrease. Cloud 100% with occasional light rain. Calm in the anchorage.

We came to the south end of Rabi Island to look for manta rays. Didn't find mantas, but did find a lovely anchorage: Katherine Bay is safe, secluded, and very pretty.


Thu Jul 19 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 26.762S 179 56.284W
Run: 55.6nm (100.6km)
Weather: Wind SSE 13k. Sea SSE 0.6m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 15%.

Had a delightful sail to Albert Cove on Rabi Island. There are 7 other boats here; the first time in 4 weeks we haven't been by ourselves in an anchorage. Back to civilization? (Probably not; one of the boats is Midnight Sun...)


Tue Jul 17 8:06 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 06.25S 179 10.81W
Run: 86.2nm (156km)
Weather: Wind E 13k. Sea E 0.5m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 20%.

An overnight passage brought us to Qelelevu Lagoon, well off the beaten path. An exposed and rolly anchorage, but stunningly beautiful!


Thu Jul 12 18:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 14.899S 179 31.789E
Run: 4.7nm (8.5km)
Weather: Wind E 15k. Sea E 0.6m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 70%, occasional sprinkles.

Anchored back at Vatudamu Point; had a nice dinghy trip up the Wainikoro River this afternoon. The next couple of days are likely to be rainy so we'll stay put. When that system passes, we plan to head east.


Wed Jul 11 17:06 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 11.95S 179 28.89E
Run: 4.7nm (8.5km)
Weather: Wind E 16k. Sea E 0.6m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 25%.

Given the stable weather pattern, we decided it was safe to anchor overnight out at the Great Sea Reef. Afternoon winds created waves too choppy for swimming, but morning snorkeling was fantastic!


Tue Jul 10 7:57 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 14.907S 179 31.752E
Run: 13.7nm (24.8km)
Weather: Wind E 15k. Sea E 0.5m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 30%.

Labasa was rowdy and fun! Now we're anchored at Vatudamu Point, very near a pass in the Great Sea Reef. If predictions hold, it will be calm enough to snorkel out there in the next couple of days.


Fri Jul 6 17:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 21.735S 179 21.644E
Run: 20.4nm (36.9km)
Weather: Wind E 10k. Seas nil. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 80%.

Took advantage of calmer conditions and traveled upwind to Malau. It's basically just an open roadstead, but is the closest anchorage to Labasa. We look forward to taking a bus into town in the next few days, for both sights and fresh produce.


Tue Jul 3 17:36 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 13.47S 179 05.32E
Weather: Wind ESE 18k. Sea ESE 0.8m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 90%, thin haze.

Anchored at Kia, outermost island in the Great Sea Reef. It's still a bit windy to be away from the protection of Vanua Levu, but prediction is for slightly calmer weather for a couple days so we figured it was now or never. The bottom is not ideal, sand and rock, but the scenery is gorgeous and the village of Daku extremely friendly.


Tue Jul 3 17:27 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 13.47S 179 05.32E
Run: 17.6nm (31.9km)
Weather: Wind ESE 18k. Sea ESE 0.8m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 90%, thin haze.

Anchored at Kia, outermost island in the Great Sea Reef. It's still a bit windy to be away from the protection of Vanua Levu, but prediction is for slightly calmer weather for a couple days so we figured it was now or never. The bottom is not ideal, sand and rock, but the scenery is gorgeous and the village of Daku extremely friendly.


Fri Jun 29 16:54 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 28.35S 179 01.59E
Run: 4.5nm (8.1km)
Weather: Wind ESE 15k with notable gusts and lulls. Sea ESE 0.1m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 10%.

We had 20-30k winds for a couple of days, with a brief respite today before even stronger winds arrive over the weekend. We took the opportunity for a change of scenery and moved 5 miles up the coast to Nukubati. Gave our sevusevu in the village of Naqumu and played some music for them; a nice outing, since it's likely we'll be "boat-bound" for a while!


Tue Jun 26 16:39 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 28.70S 178 57.54E
Run: 27nm (48.9km)
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.2m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 30%.

The enhanced winds predicted for the next several days looked a bit less strong to the east of us, so we moved a ways up the coast to Vunisinu Bay. It's a smaller version of Bua Bay (though still fairly large): surrounded by mangroves, shallow with a mud bottom, no villages.


Sun Jun 24 19:48 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 39.33S 178 35.71E
Run: 7.2nm (13km)
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.3m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 70%.

Anchored in Naurore Bay, near the village of Naviqiri. We gave our sevusevu at the village this afternoon and are looking forward to a very placid night. Tomorrow we'll walk to the school, about 30 minutes away, to play some music for them.


Sat Jun 23 17:45 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 44.16S 178 31.59E
Run: 10nm (18.1km)
Weather: Wind SSE 15-20k with stronger gusts. Sea SSE 0.2m. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 80%.

We have reached the north coast of Vanua Levu, one of our primary destinations this season. It's fun to explore new places, especially ones off the beaten path! Koroinasolo Inlet is pretty but a chute for today's winds; fortunately it's shallow with a mud bottom, good holding. The next safe anchorage was too far to reach in good light today, so we'll move on tomorrow morning.


Fri Jun 22 20:18 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 51.95S 178 35.63E
Run: 37.1nm (67.2km)
Weather: Wind SSE 17k. Sea SE 0.5m. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 20%.

Anchored in large Bua Bay, expecting a windy night so we're glad we're in shallow water on a mud bottom. We plan to start heading around the north coast of Vanua Levu tomorrow morning.


Thu Jun 21 19:30 2018 NZST
GPS: 17 06.71S 179 05.58E
Run: 28nm (50.7km)

Our stay in Savusavu was short and sweet; it's very easy to get errands done there. We didn't get to snorkel at Namena Reef when we passed through a few days ago and conditions were ideal today, so we made a return visit. Namena hasn't recovered from Cyclone Winston


Tue Jun 19 10:15 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 46.632S 179 19.878E
Run: 27.4nm (49.6km)
Weather: In Savusavu, occasional gusts but mostly calm. Open waters outside Savusavu: Wind E 20k. E 1.5m. Baro 1015, a slight decrease. Cloud 20%.

We needed to stop in Savusavu for internet access, so we can follow up on ordering replacement parts. Close inspection of the rudder has revealed no damage, so we are hopeful that all we need to replace are the stanchions (w/their sockets), a furling lead block (already replaced), and some paint on the keel. As collisions go, that sure was a lucky one! It will be nice to spend a couple of days in Savusavu catching up with friends.


Sun Jun 17 16:45 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 06.42S 179 06.10E
Run: 25.2nm (45.6km)
Weather: Wind SE 15k. Sea SE 0.8m. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 10.

Namena Reef wasn't in the plans, but it was on the way so we decided to stop and check it out. Art caught a 4' wahoo this morning, so we'll feast for a while and have plenty to share with friends in Savusavu!


Fri Jun 15 16:54 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 26.53S 178 57.09E
Run: 58.9nm (106.6km)
Weather: Wind SE 15-20k, 5-10 with gusts inside the anchorage. Sea SE 1m, nil in the anchorage. Baro 1018, a decrease of 1 mb in 3 hours. Cloud 95% with light squalls and showers.

Our repairs from Princess Civa's collision could not be done in Suva and weather permitted an exit to the east, so we departed; sure were glad to leave Suva Harbor! We enjoyed a brief stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Levuka (Ovalau I.), and are now anchored at the north end of Makogai I.


Sat Jun 9 17:42 2018 NZST
GPS: 18 06.599S 178 23.783E
Run: 2nm (3.6km)

We were one of the 5 vessels impacted


Fri Jun 8 8:36 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 18 07.399S 178 25.354E
Run: 120.9nm (218.8km)
Avg: 3knts
24hr: 71.8nm
Weather: Wind 0k. Sea flat. Baro 1015, a 2 mb decrease over 6 hours. Cloud 100% with light rain.

Anchored outside the Royal Suva Yacht Club at 0930; they facilitate all customs clearance formalities. Will go into town tomorrow to pick up the Fiji cruising permit & pay fees, and will move on to other islands as soon as weather permits.


Wed Jun 6 16:12 2018 NZST
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 19 44.16S 179 08.40E
Run: 144.7nm (261.9km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 146.8nm
Weather: Wind NW 2k. Sea SW 1M. Baro 1019, a 2 mb increase over 6 hours. Cloud 5%.

A large squall in the night brought plenty of rain and wind; other than that, we've had constant motoring. Hoped-for breezes this afternoon did not materialize, but we're surrounded by beautiful blue and expect to arrive in Suva tomorrow morning, so all's well.


Tue Jun 5 16:33 2018 NZST
Speed:
"I've sailed the world over
knts
GPS: 21 38.39S 179 55.70W
Run: 138.6nm (250.9km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 140.7nm

After driving all night, we were able to set sail in a light breeze this morning and are revelling in it! The band Great Big Sea's lyrics: "I've sailed the world over


Mon Jun 4 16:54 2018 NZST
Speed:
5.8k
knts
GPS: 23 27.58S 179 00.88W
Run: 14.2nm (25.7km)
Weather: Wind NNE 2k. Sea NE 2M. Baro 1012 and steady. Cloud 99%.

Departed for Fiji this morning. This is the first time we've ever chosen to start a passage with no wind, but we've been in Minerva 1 1/2 weeks and there was no forecast for good sailing winds in sight, so we fired up the engines are are driving. Thank goodness for the new autopilot Art installed in Opua!


Fri Jun 1 16:33 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 23 38.024S 178 53.672W
Run: 2.1nm (3.8km)
Weather: Wind E 17. Low wind waves in the anchorage, more pronounced at high tide. Baro 1018 and steady. Cloud 20%.

We were hoping to depart for Fiji today, but departed for the other side of the reef instead. 9 boats are tucked up on the ENE edge of the lagoon in preparation for this weekend's winds; we'll head out when this system passes.


Sat May 26 16:24 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 23 39.664S 178 54.505W
Run: 13nm (23.5km)
Weather: Wind SSE 12. Low chop in the anchorage at high tide. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 100%.

Anchored in North Minerva Reef with 5 other boats. Wind & waves will increase, but we'd rather ride them out here than battle the nasties at sea between here and Fiji. Plus friends Dave & Wendy from Elysium just pulled in nearby; the Minerva Reef Yacht Club will be in full swing.


Fri May 25 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
5.2k
knts
GPS: 23 41.2S 179 06.7W
Run: 168.9nm (305.7km)
Avg: 7knts
24hr: 168.9nm
Weather: Wind ENE 10. Swell SW 2.1M with small contrary waves on top. Baro 1017, decreasing very slowly. Cloud 40%.

We are very close to North Minerva and expect to drop anchor in the early afternoon. It's been a great run from Opua! The reef anchorage will be a bit rough for a few days, but it will be nice to be off watch.


Thu May 24 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
6.2k
knts
GPS: 25 46.9S 179 30.2E
Run: 194.2nm (351.5km)
Avg: 8knts
24hr: 191.4nm
Weather: Wind SSE16. Sea mixed SSE-SSW 2M. Baro 1014, a slight increase. Cloud 80%.

Had a boisterous overnight sail, clear sky and no squalls. Wind died for a bit in the morning so we motorsailed, and now are downwind with the full main up. A swell forecast indicated waves over 4M at South Minerva this weekend, so we will bypass that option and hope to reach North Minerva in good light tomorrow.


Wed May 23 16:09 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.2k
knts
GPS: 28 16.1S 178 02.1E
Run: 169.8nm (307.3km)
Avg: 7.1knts
24hr: 170.5nm
Weather: Wind WNW18. Sea WNW 1.8M. Baro 1011 and steady. Cloud 20%.

Reduced sail last evening in time to skirmish with an occasional nighttime squall. The edge of the large low pressure system crossing NZ is starting to catch up to us, so we are keeping 2nd reef + inner foresail, expecting winds & seas to build.


Tue May 22 16:15 2018 NZST
Speed:
7.5k
knts
GPS: 30 23.6S 176 37.2E
Run: 188.4nm (341km)
Avg: 7.9knts
24hr: 190.4nm
Weather: Wind NNW13. Sea NNW 1M. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 15%.

Another excellent passage day! One squall last night, but conditions today have been ideal.


Mon May 21 16:30 2018 NZST
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 32 48.1S 175 07.2E
Run: 173.9nm (314.8km)
Weather: Wind W15. Sea WNW 1.5M. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 15%.

Departed yesterday from Opua, bound for Minerva Reef. Best first-day wind and sea conditions we've ever had for a passage! We're pinching now so when the strong NW winds arrive, we'll have room to ease off. Position reports are from the noon sight.


Wed May 9 17:54 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 12.144S 174 12.672E
Run: 9nm (16.3km)
Weather: Wind nil. Sea calm. Baro 1029 and steady. Cloud 10%.

Enjoying some of our favorite Bay of Islands anchorages while waiting for a weather window to sail north.


Sun May 6 10:15 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 18.742S 174 07.535E
Run: 91.8nm (166.2km)
Weather: Wind nil. Sea calm. Baro 1024 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Anchored outside Bay of Islands Marina at Opua for final departure preparations.


Mon Apr 30 9:24 2018 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 36 10.90S 175 21.75E
Run: 1.5nm (2.7km)
Weather: Wind nil at 0930. Sea calm at Kaiaraara Bay anchorage inside Port Fitzroy. Baro 995 and steady. Cloud 95%.

We've been in various anchorages within Port Fitzroy, enjoying some nice walks for a few days then hunkering down during the NE gale. Hoping to head back across Hauraki Gulf tomorrow and arrive in Opua on Wednesday.


Sat Apr 21 17:12 2018 NZST
GPS: 36 10.96S 175 20.12E
Run: 64.2nm (116.2km)

After lengthy diversions


Sun Nov 12 16:57 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 43.708S 174 20.040E
Run: 10.6nm (19.2km)
Weather: Wind SW 15 with frequent gusts in Whangarei, but SW 25 with gusts to 35 downriver (closer to the coast). Sea rippled near town, SW .3m downriver. Baro 1012, up 4 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 70%.

Back at Riverside Drive Marina in Whangarei, our home away from home. Thanks to the Coast Guard folks for their assistance into Marsden 2 days ago, to Dave Berg for recommending that we become NZ Coast Guard members, and to Art for being able to repair transmissions!


Fri Nov 10 16:48 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 50.19S 174 28.09E
Run: 40.9nm (74km)
Weather: Wind SSE 10. Seas SSE .3m. Baro 1011, down 7 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Made an overnight run from Opua to Whangarei, but Hatea River Bridge closings and a transmission issue caused us to stop at Marsden Cove.


Mon Nov 6 17:15 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 19.034S 174 07.225E
Run: 0.4nm (0.7km)
Weather: Wind S11. Seas minimal. Baro 1018, up 3 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 50%.

Moved to the Bay of Islands Marina so we could get some shore chores done. Post-passage fatigue when writing the last post made me neglect to mention that overall our passage from New Cal was very good, and we are happy to be back in NZ!


Sat Nov 4 19:21 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 35 18.77S 174 07.57E
Run: 154.9nm (280.4km)
Avg: 6knts
24hr: 143.5nm
Weather: Wind NNW 14. Seas NW .3m. Baro 1018 and steady. Cloud 90%.

Cleared Customs in Opua and are now anchored across from the Bay of Islands Marina. We'll stay in this area for a few days to rest and renew acquaintances, then make our way down the coast to Whangarei.


Fri Nov 3 17:27 2017 NZDT
GPS: 33 22.36S 172 45.94E
Run: 163.3nm (295.6km)
Avg: 6.9knts
24hr: 165nm

An uneventful day; with conditions improving, we are making steady progress toward Opua and expect to make landfall tomorrow. It's been gray for 5 days


Thu Nov 2 17:42 2017 NZDT
Speed:
6.5kk
knts
GPS: 31 21.53S 171 18.06E
Run: 101.8nm (184.3km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 87.9nm
Weather: Wind NE 24. Seas NE 3.5m. Baro 1017, a slight increase. Cloud 100%.

This morning's adventures included a large wave tossing a cascade down the companionway at the precise moment I had the hatch open to tether myself in; jury-rigging a fix for a broken reefing line; and finding clever solutions for the malfunctioning head. Just another day at sea! A good one, actually: making our two short-term goals of not arriving below 32S before the strongest part of the front passes ahead of us, and keeping the boat from bashing too much. We set sail yesterday afternoon, once the winds turned more northerly, and are making reasonable progress along the rhumb line to Opua.


Wed Nov 1 13:54 2017 NZDT
Speed:
3k
knts
GPS: 30 03.8S 170 29.1E
Run: 111.4nm (201.6km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 141.1nm
Weather: Wind ENE 23. Seas mixed ENE 4m. Baro 1016, an increase of 3mb in the last 12 hours. Cloud 100%.

We made great progress overnight but it looked like we were going to get within a couple degrees of NZ at the same time that area was getting the worst of the front, so we decided to heave to. Second Wind is glad to no longer be a submarine, and her crew is catching up on needed rest.


Tue Oct 31 18:57 2017 NZDT
Speed:
2.5k
knts
GPS: 28 29S 170 07E
Weather: Wind ESE 20. Seas E 3m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 90% and hazy, with occasional squalls.

We're part of the New Cal group that's "parked" along the edge of the squash zone, hoping to avoid getting into the worst of the winds and squalls ahead. Wallowing in large seas has its moments; too bad we didn't get a video of Art chasing a hard boiled egg around the salon floor! (At least it was hard boiled.) Definitely looking forward to this system passing so we can get moving again.


Tue Oct 31 18:45 2017 NZDT
Speed:
2.5k
knts
GPS: 28 29S 170 07E
Run: 70.4nm (127.4km)
Avg: 3.1knts
24hr: 73.5nm
Weather: Wind ESE 20. Seas E 3m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 90% and hazy, with occasional squalls.

We're part of the New Cal group that's "parked" along the edge of the squash zone, hoping to avoid getting into the worst of the winds and squalls ahead. Wallowing in large seas has its moments; too bad we didn't get a video of Art chasing a hard boiled egg around the salon floor! (At least it was hard boiled.) Definitely looking forward to this system passing so we can get moving again.


Mon Oct 30 19:45 2017 NZDT
GPS: 27 29.2S 170 21.5E
Run: 122.9nm (222.4km)
Avg: 4.9knts
24hr: 116.6nm

Motorsailing overnight brought us to the winds we wanted and we had a great morning run


Sun Oct 29 18:27 2017 NZDT
Speed:
5k
knts
GPS: 26 42S 168 34E
Run: 121nm (219km)
Avg: 5.1knts
24hr: 123.6nm
Weather: Wind SE 15. Seas ESE 1.5m. Baro 1017, a slight increase. Cloud 40%.

Southeast wind and waves increased and this morning's gribs showed more favorable winds to the east, so we tacked. A bit of a diversion for now, but we're hoping to resume our course before too long. We've passed through different microsystems, with varying wind speeds and cloud cover, relatively close to each other.


Sat Oct 28 18:57 2017 NZDT
Speed:
5.5k
knts
GPS: 24 58.00S 168 17.52E
Run: 148.3nm (268.4km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151.8nm
Weather: Wind ENE 6. Seas ENE 1m. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 95%.

We encountered the light NE at 24 50S and fired up the engine a short while later. Still making good headway and all is well on board. (1600 status update: since the noon report, skies have cleared a great deal, we have light southeasterlies and are sailing at 4k on a course of 170T.)


Fri Oct 27 19:30 2017 NZDT
Speed:
4.5k
knts
GPS: 22 57.04S 167 29.19E
Run: 20.3nm (36.7km)
Weather: Wind ESE 10. Seas ESE .5m. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 5%.

Bound for New Zealand! Having the best start to any passage ever: light upwind with sunny skies and no large waves to bash into. Who wouldn't want to cross oceans like this?


Mon Oct 23 21:27 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 39.59S 167 26.45E
Run: 44.3nm (80.2km)
Weather: Wind NE 12. Seas NE .3m. Baro 1013, an increase of 1 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 100%.

Had a lovely sail to the Isle of Pines! We're sharing the Kuto Bay anchorage with 12 other sailboats and one of the biggest cruise ships we've ever seen. Planning to enjoy the island while we're waiting for a weather window to depart for NZ.


Sun Oct 22 19:51 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 24.35S 166 48.24E
Run: 25.4nm (46km)
Weather: Wind NE 15 with frequent gusts. Seas ENE .3m. Baro 1012, a decrease of 1 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 85%.

Anchored at Baie Ire on Ile Ouen, en route to Ile des Pins.


Sun Oct 15 18:21 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 16.74S 166 25.88E
Run: 26.8nm (48.5km)
Weather: Wind ESE 18. Seas ESE .5m. Baro 1013, a decrease of 3 mb in the last 24 hours. Cloud 95%.

Enjoyed a river walk in the upper reaches of Prony Bay yesterday before heading back to Noumea today. We were lucky to find a spot to anchor at Port Moselle; apparently two rallies are gathering here at the same time, so it's very crowded.


Fri Oct 13 21:12 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 21.40S 166 50.51E
Run: 5nm (9.1km)
Weather: Wind SE 15. Seas SE .25m. Baro 1018 and steady. Cloud 30%.

We stayed within Bay of Prony but moved to Ilot Casy in order to rendezvous with Paul & Chris of S/V Georgia. Had great hikes through dense scrub vegetation yesterday and a pine forest today.


Wed Oct 11 20:15 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 22.92S 166 54.878E
Run: 101.4nm (183.5km)
Weather: Wind SE 12 with frequent gusts to 18k. Seas SE .5m. Baro 1018, an increase of 2 mb. Cloud 35%.

A 24-hour passage brought us back to Grande Terre, where we are at a mooring at Anse Majic in Prony Bay. Tomorrow we plan to hike to the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the South Lagoon.


Sun Oct 8 18:57 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 55.38S 167 04.94E
Run: 15.8nm (28.6km)
Weather: Wind S 11. Seas SSE .3m. Baro 1017, a slight decrease. Cloud 85% with some light rain showers.

After some delightful snorkeling along the cliffs at Jokin, we sailed to the west side of Lifou Island and are now anchored near Drueulu.


Fri Oct 6 19:00 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 42.37S 167 09.65E
Run: 44.3nm (80.2km)
Weather: Wind ESE 5-10 near the cliffs, ESE 15-20 in the bay. Seas ESE rippled near the cliffs, .3m in the bay. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 25%.

We beat our way from Ouvea to Lifou all day today; we're now anchored near the cliffs in Jokin Bay.


Sun Oct 1 19:39 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 41.67S 166 28.55E
Run: 17.4nm (31.5km)
Weather: Wind ESE 8. Seas rippled. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 10%.

Back at "mainland" Ouvea, in anticipation of predicted strong southeasterlies. This time we're anchored near Lekiny, still with miles of sand and hardly any people.


Sat Sep 30 18:54 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 27.045S 166 24.525E
Run: 18.5nm (33.5km)
Weather: Wind SE 2. Seas flat. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 0%.

We took advantage of the unusually calm weather to anchor at an islet on the far northern reef. Swam near large fish and large turtles, and enjoyed the solitude.


Fri Sep 29 18:36 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 20 43.06S 166 25.34E
Run: 113.5nm (205.4km)
Weather: Wind ESE 3. Seas flat. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 0%.

A boisterous overnight sail brought us to Ouvea, northernmost of New Cal's Loyalty Islands. The anchorage could not be more peaceful or beautiful: miles of white sand beach, no wind, and no crowds. I think we found Paradise...


Wed Sep 27 19:00 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 15.636S 167 01.677E
Run: 25.2nm (45.6km)
Weather: Wind NNE 17. Seas NNE 1m, just a NNE chop in the anchorage. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 90%.

Anchored at Ilot Nou, a well-protected basin just outside of Havannah Pass.


Sun Sep 24 18:27 2017 NZDT
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 33.347S 166 47.789E
Run: 10.5nm (19km)
Weather: Wind ESE 16. Slight ESE swell. Baro 1019, steady. Cloud 15%.

Enjoyed a lovely walk around Ilot Ua this morning, then moved on to Ilot Mato. We're a bit more exposed to wind here, but wave protection from the reefs is excellent.


Sat Sep 23 17:51 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 42.399S 166 48.593E
Run: 27.2nm (49.2km)
Weather: Wind SE 15. Slight SE swell. Baro 1019, steady. Cloud 85%.

Anchored at Ilot Ua, where we enjoyed snorkeling along a coral dropoff.


Thu Sep 21 17:30 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 28.603S 166 27.839E
Run: 10.7nm (19.4km)
Weather: Wind SE 5. Seas calm. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 30%.

On a mooring at Ilot Amedee, near the graceful lighthouse. An ideal location! Water clarity is superb; turtles, remoras and reef sharks are clearly visible around the boat, and snorkeling is outstanding.


Wed Sep 20 17:24 2017 NZST
GPS: 22 19.9S 166 24.4E
Run: 4.4nm (8km)

On a mooring at Ilot Maitre, our first stop on a month of exploring New Caledonia anchorages. Quite a few boats here-including jet skis and small ferries


Sat Sep 16 16:09 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 22 16.6S 166 26.4E
Run: 146.6nm (265.3km)
Avg: 3.2knts
24hr: 76.1nm
Weather: Wind WSW 9. Seas rippled in the lagoon. Baro 1018, steady. Cloud 15%.

Checked in to New Caledonia Customs at 1530 on Friday. We'll stay in Noumea for some R&R and provisioning for a few days, then will head out to explore anchorages.


Thu Sep 14 17:54 2017 NZST
Speed:
7k
knts
GPS: 20 39.0S 167 54.2E
Run: 168.3nm (304.6km)
Avg: 6.9knts
24hr: 165.5nm
Weather: Wind ESE 17. Seas ESE 2m. Baro 1017, steady. Cloud 40%.

Pinched & pounded yesterday and rolling more today than desired, but we're making good time and all is well on board. We expect to pass through the Loyalty Islands late this afternoon and hope make the entrance to Havannah Pass by slack tide tomorrow morning.


Wed Sep 13 17:30 2017 NZST
Speed:
6.2k
knts
GPS: 18 13.7S 168 10.6E
Run: 34.6nm (62.6km)
Weather: Wind SSE 18. Seas SSE 1.5. Baro 1017, steady. Cloud 10%8

Departed Port Vila this morning, bound for Noumea.


Sun Aug 20 18:03 2017 NZST
GPS: 17 44.663S 168 18.750E
Run: 4.8nm (8.7km)

Oops! Last report should have put us at 17 degrees south, not 16. (Done - GHRadio)


Wed Aug 16 19:21 2017 NZST
GPS: 17 41.521S 168 15.902E
Run: 78.8nm (142.6km)

We put up with stronger headwinds moving into Mele Bay this morning so we could hang around Esema Bay yesterday for a jam session with an additional uke and a guy on washboard bass (large plastic tub, thin rope & a stick)


Mon Aug 14 17:54 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 33.15S 168 16.89E
Run: 0.9nm (1.6km)
Weather: Wind SE 5-10. Seas nil in the harbor. Baro 1014, decreasing. Cloud 95%.

Still in Havannah Harbor; moved around a small point to anchor in Esema Bay for a slight change of scenery. Attending to some maintenance tasks, which feels good.


Thu Aug 10 18:42 2017 NZST
GPS: 16 33.785S 168 16.497E
Run: 7.8nm (14.1km)

An overnight sail brought us back to Matapu Bay in Havannah Harbor (Efate Island) exactly 2 months after we stopped here on our way north


Mon Aug 7 20:15 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 35.80S 168 09.76E
Run: 22.5nm (40.7km)
Weather: Wind ESE 10 with gusts over 15. Seas ESE rippled. Baro 1017 and rising. Cloud 40%.

Arrived at Lamen Bay on Epi Island this morning. Last time we were here it was just a quick stopover; this time we plan to stay a few days to swim with the local dugong and turtles.


Fri Aug 4 19:48 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 31.82S 167 49.78E
Run: 4nm (7.2km)
Weather: Wind light and variable. Seas nil. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 85%.

Anchored in the inner basin at Uliveo Island (Maskelyne Island group) yesterday afternoon. Had a delightful day playing in their primary and secondary schools, being treated to kava at the local kava bar, and having lobster from a nearby reef. Tomorrow we plan to visit their giant clam sanctuary.


Mon Jul 31 18:36 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 32.0S 167 46.2E
Run: 13.6nm (24.6km)
Weather: Wind SSE 20-25 outside the anchorage, 10-15 inside. Seas SSE 1.5M outside, short wind chop inside. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Anchored at Awei Island, in the Maskelyne Island group on the SE corner of Malekula.


Fri Jul 28 18:12 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 20.26S 167 45.42E
Run: 19nm (34.4km)
Weather: Winds light and variable. Seas calm . Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 100%, some light rain.

A couple of long tacks upwind brought us to Banam Bay yesterday. Crab Bay was murky but the water here is inviting; we'll snorkel here, as well as see the village's highly regarded custom dancing. We plan to stay at least through their Independence Day celebrations on July 30.


Wed Jul 26 15:57 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 10.04S 167 31.97E
Run: 33.2nm (60.1km)
Weather: Wind SSE 18 with gusts to 23 (inside and outside the anchorage). Seas SE 1.5M outside, minimal inside. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 100%, a light haze.

A boisterous sail from Ambrym Island to Malekula Island, where we are anchored at Crab Bay. We were hoping to swim with turtles here, but it's awfully blustery! At least Art caught a lovely mahimahi on the way in, so we'll feast tonight.


Tue Jul 25 18:12 2017 NZST
GPS: 16 11.67S 168 01.90E
Run: 6.5nm (11.8km)

Had an overnight trek to the volcano with Good as Gold, Chara and JAMS


Tue Jul 18 18:00 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 08.58S 168 06.85E
Run: 43nm (77.8km)
Weather: Wind SE 8 with gusts to 15. Seas rippled with slight swell. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 70%.

Had a great sail to Ambrym, then motored to Ranon anchorage once we were in the lee of the island. We're here for a cultural festival and will be in this area for at least a few days.


Mon Jul 17 18:33 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 06.32S 167 28.06E
Run: 44.9nm (81.3km)
Weather: Wind SE 20, 12 in the anchorage. Seas ESE 1.5M outside, rippled in the anchorage. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 100% with occasional light rain.

Close hauled all day but finally made it to Port Stanley on Malekula Island. Looking forward to a good night's rest, then heading to Ambrym early tomorrow morning.


Sun Jul 9 17:42 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 29.46S 167 14.94E
Weather: Wind SE 10. Seas ESE 1.5M, though nearby reefs block all but some swell. Baro 1016, a slight decrease. Cloud 85%.

Were headed to Luganville but diverted to Palikulo Bay when we learned S/V State of Mind was there. Many thanks to Brenda & Rod for Art's birthday feast! (Celebrated with them last year in Neaifu; wonder where we'll all be next year?)


Sun Jul 9 17:39 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 29.46S 167 14.94E
Run: 8.5nm (15.4km)
Weather: Wind SE 10. Seas ESE 1.5M, though nearby reefs block all but some swell. Baro 1016, a slight decrease. Cloud 85%.

Were headed to Luganville but diverted to Palikula Bay when we learned S/V State of Mind was there. Many thanks to Brenda & Rod for Art's birthday feast! (Celebrated with them last year in Neaifu; wonder where we'll all be next year?)


Thu Jul 6 18:03 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 22.83S 167 11.68E
Run: 17.3nm (31.3km)
Weather: Wind ESE 15. Seas ESE 1.5M, though nearby reefs block all but some swell. Baro 1013 and steady. Cloud 100% with intermittent rain.

Anchored in Peterson Bay on Santo. The anchorage is deep & feels exposed, but with better light & some dinghy exploration in advance, we may be able to head through a shallow pass into a more protected location tomorrow. A dinghy river trip is on the agenda for this area.


Wed Jul 5 19:00 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 08.48S 167 07.23E
Run: 92.5nm (167.4km)
Weather: Wind SE 10. Seas SE .5M. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 10%.

Left the Banks Islands and arrived at Espiritu Santo after an overnight upwind passage. Anchored at Champagne Beach in Hog Harbor, where the sand is as soft as sifted flour!


Thu Jun 29 18:00 2017 NZST
GPS: 13 49.64S 167 22.95E
Run: 29.1nm (52.7km)

Anchored at Waterfall Bay, Vanua Lava. Relatively calm in the anchorage given the conditions offshore. Heard incredible "water music" on Gaua, now looking forward to


Tue Jun 27 17:12 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 14 12.46S 167 34.20E
Run: 89nm (161.1km)
Weather: Wind SSE 17. Seas SE 1.5M outside but slight in the anchorage. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 30%.

An overnight sail brought us to Losalava Bay on Gaua Island, in the Banks group. Windy but secure here, and very remote.


Thu Jun 22 18:12 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 22.5S 168 07.9E
Run: 12.1nm (21.9km)
Weather: Wind SSW 10. Seas SSW .5M outside but slight in the anchorage. Baro 1013 and steady. Cloud 100% with showers.

Anchored at Asanvari Bay on Maewo Island. A lovely anchorage, though so far quite wet!


Tue Jun 20 17:06 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 32.95S 168 08.59E
Run: 16.4nm (29.7km)
Weather: Wind SE 5. Seas nil in the bay. Baro 1012 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Waterfall Bay was aptly named and very enjoyable. This morning we motored 15nm north on glassy seas to Loltong.


Sun Jun 18 18:33 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 47.15S 168 09.73E
Run: 11.6nm (21km)
Weather: Wind ESE 8. Slight ESE swell in the anchorage. Baro 1015. Cloud 90%.

After a magnificent experience watching the land diving, we headed north and are anchored at Waterfall Bay.


Thu Jun 15 17:57 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 15 57.1S 168 11.5E
Run: 44.6nm (80.7km)
Weather: Wind ESE 10 with occasional strong gusts. Seas nil in the bay. Baro 1015, a slight decrease. Cloud 90%.

An overnight sail brought us to Homo Bay on Pentecost Island. We will play music in the village tomorrow and watch the land diving in nearby Wali on Saturday.


Tue Jun 13 17:24 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 16 35.75S 168 09.73E
Run: 34.2nm (61.9km)
Weather: Wind ENE 15. Seas E 1m but slight in the bay. Baro 1017 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Another gorgeous sail, this time to Epi Island; we are anchored in Lamen Bay.


Sun Jun 11 16:45 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 03.06S 168 21.99E
Run: 35.9nm (65km)
Weather: Wind ESE 13. Seas mixed, SE 1M + SW .5M. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 10%.

Had a gorgeous sail to Emae Island, where we are anchored in Sulua Bay.


Sat Jun 10 17:42 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
GPS: 17 33.8S 168 16.5E
Run: 9873.4nm (17870.9km)
Avg: 104.6knts
24hr: 2510.2nm
Weather: Wind SSE 5. Seas nil in the harbor. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Anchored in Matapu Bay, in Havannah Harbor on Efate Island. Lovely and calm, with the whole place to ourselves.


Tue Jun 6 19:18 2017 NZST
Speed:
0k
knts
Run: 9782nm (17705.4km)
Avg: 380.6knts
24hr: 9134.9nm
Weather: Wind SE 10. Seas nil in the harbor. Baro 1016 and steady. Cloud 95%.

On a mooring in Port Vila. Nice to be back! Will be here a few days taking care of business, then head north.


Mon Jun 5 17:36 2017 NZST
Speed:
6k
knts
GPS: 19 16.3S 169 20.7E
Run: 20.1nm (36.4km)
Weather: Wind SE 12. Seas SE .5M. Baro 1015 and steady. Cloud 95%.

Had a great time in the villages around Port Resolution; now en route to Port Vila.


Sat Jun 3 16:51 2017 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 31.55S 169 29.67E
Run: 52.6nm (95.2km)
Weather: Wind SSE 12. Seas nil in the bay. Baro 1014 and steady. Cloud 100%.

Now at Tanna Island, enjoying the steam vents and wonderful people. Have traded for pamplemousse, bananas & lemons; lots of green things on board again!


Sun May 28 16:12 2017 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 20 14.35S 169 46.67E
Run: 103.2nm (186.8km)
Avg: 4.2knts
24hr: 99.7nm
Weather: Wind SE 12. Seas SE 1.5M. Baro 1019 and steady. Cloud 30%.

Made landfall at Aneityum exactly 8 days after departure; anchored in Anelghowhat Bay. Had a bit of everything en route, & overall the passage was excellent. It's great to be at a warm island again!


Sat May 27 15:21 2017 NZST
Speed:
4.0
knts
GPS: 21 39S 170 18E
Run: 128.1nm (231.9km)
Avg: 4.7knts
24hr: 113.4nm
Weather: Wind SSE 8. Seas S 1.5M. Baro 1019 and steady. Cloud 5%.

Slow but pleasant sailing today. If we were faster or could sail the rhumb line we'd arrive in the dark tonight, so we're enjoying the lovely ride and looking forward to landfall tomorrow.


Fri May 26 12:15 2017 NZST
Speed:
7.0
knts
GPS: 23 21S 171 06E
Run: 134.9nm (244.2km)
Avg: 6.7knts
24hr: 161.9nm
Weather: Wind WNW 15. Seas WNW 1.5M. Baro 1015 and rising. Cloud 5%.

First glorious sailing day of this passage, a lively upwind romp. Made us remember it's not all about the destination!


Thu May 25 16:15 2017 NZST
Speed:
3.0
knts
GPS: 25 18.1S 171 03.8E
Run: 154.6nm (279.8km)
Avg: 5.3knts
24hr: 128.2nm
Weather: Wind NNE 14. Seas NNE 4.5M. Baro 1013 and steady. Cloud 100%, rain heavy at times.

Messy day as a trough passes. Strong squalls, motorsailing upwind, not much progress made. With such a great run so far and boats to the east of us getting clobbered, no whining allowed on this boat.


Wed May 24 11:18 2017 NZST
Speed:
7.0
knts
GPS: 27 05.1S 172 34.1E
Run: 180.9nm (327.4km)
Avg: 7.6knts
24hr: 181.3nm
Weather: Wind E 18. Seas E 3M. Baro 1019, slight decrease. Cloud 80%.

Half way there, at least as the albatross flies! Still making great time under reduced canvas with hearty winds & seas on starboard aft quarter. Decided not to cook the flying fish on deck for breakfast.


Tue May 23 11:21 2017 NZST
Speed:
7.5
knts
GPS: 29 27.0S 173 50.6E
Run: 147.3nm (266.6km)
Avg: 7.7knts
24hr: 184.6nm
Weather: Wind E25. Baro 1024, slight decrease. Seas E 3.5M. Cloud 40%.

On second reef & inner foresail, will reduce to 3rd reef soon with wind & seas building. At least it warmed up enough to take off our coats & gloves!


Mon May 22 16:12 2017 NZST
Speed:
5.5
knts
GPS: 31 29.8S 174 31.9E
Run: 110nm (199.1km)
Avg: 3.8knts
24hr: 91.7nm
Weather: Wind E12. Baro 1028, slight decrease. Seas E 1M. Cloud 95%.

Position from noon today. Propagation is poor so having trouble sending and receiving info, including current gribs; trying to situate ourselves reasonably well for upcoming weather.


Sun May 21 11:24 2017 NZST
Speed:
5.5
knts
GPS: 33 04.1S 174 14.2E
Run: 169.2nm (306.3km)
Weather: Wind S15. Baro 1025 sharp rise from yesterday. Seas SW 1M. Cloud 100%.

Rough start leaving NZ yesterday but calmer now and making good progress