Sheer Tenacity

Wed Oct 19 20:05 2016 NZDT
Speed:
6.5knots
knts
GPS: 26 41.146s 153 7.648e
Run: 54.6nm (98.8km)

=20 Having left Tin can Bay yesterday with the outgoing tide, we anchored in Pelican Bay ,ready for an early morning departure today. The Wide Bay Bar was as calm as it gets, and despite it being spring low tide , we never saw less than 1.9mts below the keel, when we crossed at 6.00am. We motor sailed the remaining 55nm to Mooloolaba with a 1kn favourable current and calm seas, crossing the Mooloolaba bar at 14.30, 2hrs before low tide. We had a whole 0.4 mt under the keel as we made our way past the marina to the jetty we had earmarked for the night! The only real challenge of trip was whale dodging , with migrating Humpbacks and offspring, popping up way too close for comfort! We're on a public pontoon for tonight and, hopefully, tomorrow we'll go into the marina.


Mon Oct 10 17:46 2016 NZDT
GPS: 25 54.121s 153 01.337e
Run: 6.2nm (11.2km)

=20 We had quite an eventful morning at Pelican Bay yesterday morning. First an uncrewed fishing boat washed up on the sandspit and sank in the strong winds and waves. Then a yacht anchored way too close to us and, we think, must have tripped our anchor! In 20-30kt of wind we landed up with our rudder stuck in a sandbank having dragged quite a way. Fortunately, by winching in the chain and anchor and using all the engine power we had, we managed to get off the bank unscathed except for our frayed nerves! We decided to move to Tin Can Bay which had much more room and was way more sheltered. So here we are, with lots of space around us, awaited the next big winds predicted for about 3 days! Never a dull moment!!


Wed Oct 5 18:50 2016 NZDT
GPS: 25 48.772s 153 02.280e
Run: 20.3nm (36.7km)

=20 Safely at anchor in Pelican Bay, just short of the Wide Bay bar that we have to get over to get out to the open sea for the leg to Mooloolaba. We have just done the torturous route through the shallows to get here. We hope to stay here and relax for a few days until the high tide is early in the morning in order to get over the bar.


Tue Oct 4 15:51 2016 NZDT
GPS: 25 31.609s 152 58.041e
Run: 13.1nm (23.7km)

=20 Anchored at White Cliffs, very tranquil at the moment (long may that last). Bad night last night......wind changed and blew strongly. We hopped and bopped and at one point thought we were dragging. Eventually we ascertained that we weren't in peril and managed to get some sleep! Today is more like I'd imagined the Great Sandy Straits would be....blue water, sunshine and good visibility. We are in the middle of mangroves (we passed the white cliffs earlier) so hope we don't get too bitten by sandflies. We both react quite badly to them and itch for days. Tomorrow we'll do the "shallow" leg which we must do at high tide.


Mon Oct 3 21:18 2016 NZDT
GPS: 25 20.296s 152 59.493e
Run: 55nm (99.6km)

=20 Arrived at our anchorage behind Big Woody Island in the Great Sandy Straits. Left Bundaberg at 7.00h this morning. More wind than we expected and again directly behind us which is Sheer's worst point of sail. Cloudy dull day and very lumpy sea. Not a pleasant day and once in the Straits navigation is very demanding as there are sand banks everywhere, but they are marked. A heavy squall waited for us to get the anchor down before arriving, for a change!


Sun Sep 25 14:09 2016 NZDT
GPS: 24 45.615s 152 23.297e
Run: 141.4nm (255.9km)
Avg: 5.1knts
24hr: 122nm

=20 Safely moored in Bundaberg Port Marina. Arrived this morning at about 9.30h. Very difficult night, strong wind directly astern and fairly big sea which created a very uncomfortable situation. However, we made good time and here we are......back in Bundy!!


Sat Sep 24 9:20 2016 NZST
GPS: 23 11.552s 150 56.988e
Run: 0.2nm (0.4km)

=20 At anchor off the south side of Keppell. Leaving today for an overnighter to Bundaberg. At the moment there is precious little wind from the south, which is not what we want. We will wait for the forecast northerly to fill in and then leave. We have plenty of time on this leg so we don't have to push!


Wed Sep 21 17:51 2016 NZST
GPS: 23 11.593s 150 57.143e
Run: 46.3nm (83.8km)

At anchor off Long Beach, Great Keppell Island. Left Port Clinton at low tide this morning and although concerned about one section of our exit depthwise, we had no problems. Wasn't a pleasant anchorage though.....very safe, but swampy and thousands of bitey things arrived at dusk. And most of them travelled with us today!!


Tue Sep 20 18:36 2016 NZST
GPS: 22 32.891s 150 45.482e
Run: 113.4nm (205.3km)
Avg: 5knts
24hr: 120.4nm

Safely at anchor after a 179nm overnighter from the Whitsundays. We're in Port Clinton on the mainland. It has a tricky entry through mudbanks into the mangroves where we are anchored with one other yacht. That's a third of the trip to Mooloolaba completed. Tomorrow, we'll depart early and hope to be anchored at Great Keppell later on in the day. The northerly breeze should still be holding.


Mon Sep 19 20:00 2016 NZST
Speed:
6
knts
GPS: 21 11.444s 149 45.881e
Run: 77.2nm (139.7km)
Avg: 3.2knts
24hr: 77.8nm

Left Whitsunday Island 06.15h this morning. Motor sailed all day with some current assist. Decided to do an overnighter to Island Head Creek. The weather is very benign and is predicted to stay this way for the next 2 days, but we want to be in safe anchorage if conditions should change.


Sun Sep 18 20:12 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 18.526s 149 01.908e
Run: 20.5nm (37.1km)

At anchor in Chance Bay, Whitsundays Island. Last day of our Whitsundays cruise. Very good day......Hook Island Passage in very hectic conditions......Tongue Bay, picked up a mooring and walked up to the lookout over Whitehaven Beach. Spectacular! Then we anchored off the beach for lunch. caught the right tide and went through Solway Passage to our present anchorage.

We have a favourable north wind for the next 3 days, so tomorrow we will start our southerly journey. Hopefully, Brampton Island tomorrow evening.


Fri Sep 16 17:16 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 15.404s 148 43.240e
Run: 15nm (27.2km)

Safely anchored at Airlie Beach. The wind unexpectedly changed back to south in the night and so we were able to come here to do some things.

It's noisy and busy with jetskis and power boats creating an uncomfortable chop. Maybe tomorrow we'll return to peaceful Nara.


Thu Sep 15 17:21 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 08.117s 148 54.740e
Run: 8.6nm (15.6km)

Anchored in beautiful Nara Inlet on Hook Island. Think we'll stay a few days before going to Airlie Beach for garbage removal and provisioning. Also will get some internet there!


Tue Sep 13 19:15 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 15.402s 148 56.594e
Run: 18.3nm (33.1km)

Wind is turning to northeasterly so we had to forego our plan to visit Whitehaven Beach today and are peacefully anchored in CID Harbour. Will probably stay here until the wind resumes its usual easterlies in a few days.


Mon Sep 12 14:36 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 30.222s 149 02.734e
Run: 13.7nm (24.8km)

Just dropped anchor in Burning Point anchorage on Shaw Island. Lovely calm spot. Spent 2 night at Goldsmith....it was too peaceful to leave!! We may stay here another day or push on to the iconic Whitehaven Beach tomorrow. Its good to be "on the road again"!


Sat Sep 10 17:30 2016 NZST
GPS: 20 40.83s 149 08.469e
Run: 30.3nm (54.8km)

Finally left Mackay Marina after more than 2 months! Not enough wind too sail but we weren't going too far and the pleasure of being out of the marina outweighed the irritation of the engine noise. So we are at anchor at Goldsmith Island in the Whitsundays and we'll be bumbling around the area for the next week or so. It is a lovely anchorage!


Wed Jun 22 17:46 2016 NZST
GPS: 21 06.72s 149 13.60e
Run: 83.7nm (151.5km)

We are in Mackay Harbour Marina today......a long story!!

We left South Percy before daybreak, intending to do a couple of overnighters to break the back of the passage to Cairns while the weather was still gentle.Well gentle it was, so we motorsailed most of the day until BANG at 16.00h ........the engine waterpump seized. We were at that stage about 24nm from MacKay, so we changed course, popped the genaker up as the wind was very gentle and from the stern. We ghosted along very slowly feeling very glum! To cut a long story short, it took us 10 hours to do the 24 miles, arriving outside the harbour at 2.00h powered by the dinghy lashed to the side of Sheer. Last night a ship had to take evasive action has we had no means of moving out of its path. This morning we were towed out of the path of a huge bulk carrier by the Pilot boat and later were towed into the Marina by Rescue 5. Our pump should be replaced on Friday (Thursday is a public holiday of course). Weather permitting we'll continue the journey on Saturday. Who said that cruising was fun?? It certainly isn't for sissies!


Mon Jun 20 23:23 2016 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 21 43.95s 150 20.60e
Run: 46.6nm (84.3km)

Left Island Head Creek at 8.00h this morning on an incoming tide. Had a really good fast sail to South Percy 46nm. We are anchored with one other yacht rocking gently at this time. That could change when the tide comes in, but we are hopeful that we'll have a peaceful night.


Sat Jun 18 21:53 2016 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 22 21.60s 150 36.650e
Run: 59.4nm (107.5km)

Had a really early start this morning, before daybreak, from Great Keppel Island. On a scale of 1-10, maybe 3!! Very rolly, shallow and not particularly attractive. However, it beat being at sea. Today was easy. We motored the whole way.....sea was relatively flat....but we had a 2.5kt counter current! The entry into Island Head Creek was interesting at low tide. However, the most shallow we got was 1m under the keel. So here we are, in a lovely lagoon anchorage, sheltered from the northerly winds predicted for tomorrow.


Fri Jun 17 20:33 2016 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 09.51s 150 57.22e
Run: 143nm (258.8km)

At anchor in very rolly Great Keppell Bay in the Great Barrier Reef. Had a rough and uncomfortable night at sea, a good shake down for boat and body after nearly 7 months on land!


Thu Jun 16 17:37 2016 NZST
Speed:
5
knts
No position sent.

Left Bundaberg this morning at 7.00h. We are en route Cairns to join the Sail2Indonesia Rally. Hoping to make Island Head Creek tomorrow for our first stop. Uncomfortable sea and rain on its way.


Thu Nov 5 10:59 2015 NZDT
Speed:
Tied out on dock
knts
GPS: 24 45.689s 152 23.182e
Run: 40.5nm (73.3km)

Feeling so pleased to be here in Bundaberg Port Marina, safe and sound, with our trusty Fredlet (emergency autohelm Raytheon rubberband type) holding together to the end. We were checked in by super officials who were waiting on the dock as we tied up. Check in was quick and hassle-free. All fresh produce was confiscated excluding a prepared salad for supper. A frozen bolonaise was also overlooked so we'€™d have a meal. How great is that? So YIT, thanks for your support. We are over and out until May next year when we will move up through the Great Barrier Reef to Darwin. see you then!!


Wed Nov 4 7:44 2015 NZDT
Speed:
5kt motorsailing
knts
GPS: 24 25.060s 152 54.503e
Run: 149.6nm (270.8km)
Avg: 6.2knts
24hr: 147.9nm
Weather: N5-6kt,

Just 32nm from Port Bundaberg Marina. Soon we'€™ll be there on the dock before lunch. Then there'€™ll be the dreaded formalities! Will be good to have a shower and a sleep!


Tue Nov 3 7:27 2015 NZDT
Speed:
4.5kt
knts
GPS: 24 00.799s 155 14.369e
Run: 141.2nm (255.6km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 142nm
Weather: NE 3-4kt, 1018 bar, almost no cloud, 1mt slow swell.

Gentler winds and strong counter current have led to more motor sailing, more diesel consumption and a slower planned passage.

That said, conditions otherwise have been great '€“ calm seas, warm sunny days, lovely moonlit nights and a decent sized mahi mahi (one thing the Aussie Biosecurity won'€™t confiscate!) Timing for landfall in Bundaberg is now round about lunchtime tomorrow and we have only 159 miles to go. Eating well (calm seas means no mal de mer)......all the luxuries such as smoked salmon, French cheeses and smoked meats that we won'€™t be allowed to keep. All is very well on board!


Mon Nov 2 7:35 2015 NZDT
Speed:
5kt
knts
GPS: 23 44.503s 157 27.209e
Run: 151.3nm (273.9km)
Avg: 6.3knts
24hr: 151.3nm
Weather: ene 9-11kt, 1019 bar, almost no cloud, 1mt slow swell.

As predicted, the seas have calmed and the wind has backed from SE to ESE, through E to ENE. The last 24 hours we have been sailing/motorsailing dead downwind in 11-14kt and with moderate to gentle following seas, a very pleasant change from the earlier beam on 3m swells. The wind is expected to clock further round to the NE this morning and we hope to fly the RSA asymetrical proudly for most of the remaining trip. Rubberband Fredlet is still putting fairly new Raymarine to shame and we are hopeful of arrival at Bundaberg on Wednesday morning. 281nm to go. All well on board!


Sun Nov 1 7:35 2015 NZDT
Speed:
4kt
knts
GPS: 23 45.706s 159 50.662e
Run: 145.6nm (263.5km)
Avg: 6knts
24hr: 144.5nm
Weather: e14-20, 1019 bar, almost no cloud, 1mt slow swell.

Drifting along, goosewinged, breeze directly behind us and almost a knot of counter current. Beautiful sunrise and halfway to Bundy. All well on board.


Sat Oct 31 7:24 2015 NZDT
Speed:
7kt
knts
GPS: 23 13.437s 162 03.903e
Run: 286.4nm (518.4km)
Avg: 5.1knts
24hr: 122.3nm
Weather: e14-20, 1019 bar, 25%cloud cover, 2.5mt sea

Fred, our new Raymarine autopilot, failed at 10.00h yesterday, so we have had to rely on Fredlet, a little 25 year old rubber-band backup! We have therefore adopted a conservative sailing policy, with emphasis on balance and Fredlet'€™s survival, rather than speed! Despite that, we have progressed very well and even the sea state seems to be getting a little more comfortable with the beam on swells dropping to 2mt.

At this stage we are still on track for a Wednesday morning arrival in Bundaberg. Have now done 293nm with 536nm to go.


Wed Oct 28 23:12 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 16.635s 166 26.408e

Still on the visitors dock in Port Moselle. Have checked out and will be leaving for Bundaberg tomorrow after refuelling.


Fri Oct 23 13:01 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 16.635S 166 26.412E
Run: 0.6nm (1.1km)

Fri Oct 23 10:36 2015 NZDT
GPS: 22 17s 166 26e
Run: 24.5nm (44.3km)

We have been safely tied up on the visitors dock in Port Moselle for a few days, having been very painlessly checked by friendly and efficient officials!(FREE). Now we are preparing the boat for the dreaded entry into Australia. We will be going into Bundaberg and hauling out there for 4 months while we go home to Cape Town.


Wed Oct 14 14:05 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0 Anchored in pretty bay(Baie Uie) off Canal Wodin
knts
GPS: 22 25.725s 166 47.007e
Run: 132.9nm (240.5km)
Avg: 4.5knts
24hr: 107.2nm
Weather: 20+ se/ese, 23degs C, Bar 1020, 50% cloud

Finally anchored after one of the toughest, roughest short passages we have done. The Eagle has now Landed...... Not sure that he'€™s got any feathers left, and if he has...theyre wet!! We were beating into winds( mostly SE in 22-24kn range,) but also lots of 28-32knot patches ,excluding the rain squalls! Seas were big much of the time (4-5mts), and when it settled back to 3mts, it felt like Xmas! The passage was wet, wild, and fairly fast given the point of sail, in those sea states. We had to slow down to 3.6knots for the last 60 miles to Havannah passage , as we wanted to arrive at dawn(5.00am), to catch the last 3 hour of incoming tide. Just as well, as we enjoyed up to 4.5knots with us at times,during the 20 odd miles to our anchor spot, where we will catch up on the sleep which was impossible on the trip! We would not have made Port Moselle, to clear in before dark, so decided to get some sleep, sort the boat out, and check in tomorrow in daylight! Hope the New Cal guys are tolerant and understanding! The slowing down bit was a whole new challenge, as we had to beat into winds between 22 and 28 knots most of the night,with 3-4 waves from the beam, plus a 1- 2knot current assisting us from stb quarter. Trying to persuade the autopilot to keep us on course , with so little boat speed through the water, was a learning experience for both us and the unit! Many times it would require a full lock correction, after being smashed by a big swell, but with no speed through the water, there was no response, so it just squawked ,and let go! It was definitely our longest ever Ferry Gliding challenge. Despite everything, we did the 288 miles trip, in 49 hours, with no breakages or injuries on either ST ,or SF. Very happy and glad to be here ! Regards, Rod and Mary


Tue Oct 13 8:20 2015 NZDT
Speed:
5.8kn, 220degs M
knts
GPS: 21 02.480s 168 13.000e
Run: 133.6nm (241.8km)
Avg: 5.5knts
24hr: 132.4nm
Weather: ESE 20-22kn, 50%cloud cover, Bar 1019.

Took the gap and left Port Resolution 09.30hrs. Hard going out and around corner, with beat to bottom corner Tanna. Cracked off onto course 210M, in 4-5mts seas, and winds 24-28, gusting 30-32. Pretty wet and wild, with a few big waves slapping over the boat.Seas now settled down to 2.5- 3.0mts, and having gained a little real estate during the night, we have the luxury of dropping down 10degs to round Mare, before hardening up again for Havannah Pass. Thanks Patricia for the encouragement to take the Monday gap.... but I don'€™t think it was the kind of passage conditions we all would really want if we had a choice! But we needed to get to New Cal pretty soon, and there were no guarantees looking forward!! regards, Rod & Mary


Mon Oct 12 8:07 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 31.539s 169 29.730e
Weather: ESE15-18knots, in Port Resolution, 60%cloud cover now.

Taking the gap later this morning, and heading for Noumea!Conditions not ideal, but probably as good as we can get,without sitting out another week or so. will reef down, take it easy, and hope the sea state is not too uncomfortable! At this stage we aim to pick up the low slack at Havannah Pass around lunch time Wednesday. Will keep you posted on yit each morning.

regards, Rod & Mary


Fri Oct 9 9:20 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 31.539s 169 29.730e
Weather: S18-23knots, in Port Resolution, Rain overnight, 80%cloud cover now.

Had great volcano experience on Saturday! Well worth the wait.Now waiting for window for good trip to NC. Thanks to Dave and Pats Email, we are now looking to set out for new Cal on Monday 12th, with more easterly winds, A few boats left yesterday, in what looked like nasty seas and too much SE. Hope they manage OK!! The propagation here is frustrating, as we can usually hear Pat pretty well at first, but noise level increases to level where we cannot hear David with the weather ! Heard up until Fiji weather both last 2 days, but lose him when he moves on to Vanuatu and the rest! Intend exploring a bit more ashore today, if the rain holds off! regards, R & M


Mon Oct 5 10:28 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 31.539s 169 29.730e
Weather: S18-23knots, in Port Resolution, Rain overnight, 80%cloud cover now.

Great Balls of Fire!! Had great volcano experience on Saturday! Well worth the wait. Customs came through from Lanakel to clear in 2 boats, so we completed Immigration check in, and arranged to go to Lenakel, via Ash fields, on Tuesday , to clear out, with a delayed departure option. (To leave over next week end from here.) Winds look to be easing and going more E. Enjoyed a village lunch , (for a contribution to school funds 1)and walks around PR area., which is very attractive and lush. Very interesting cultural fusion, between 1st and 3rd world lifestyles,as well as some typically badly thought out '€œforeign aid'€ programs. Will cover some specifics in blogs at later date. Anchorage is far less rolly than we were led to believe in stronger SE winds, and are quite happy to wait here for the better window, chilling out with the other 7 yachts here at present. regards, Rod & Mary


Sat Oct 3 8:25 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 19 31.539s 169 29.730e
Run: 46.3nm (83.8km)
Weather: S18-23knots, in Port Resolution

Yesterdays Volcano trip did not workout, so going today /this evening instead.Having lunch in village today( Schoolfundraiser/donation, then volcano at 4pm. Looking to go over to Lenakel on Monday by car, and to checkout for departure to Numea on Tuesday, when wind looks to go ESE fo rest of week at around 20-22knots. Seas look to be pretty big and nasty for whole week, so not sure if its worth delaying? Whats your take on the trip Dave? regards, Rod & Mary


Wed Sep 30 18:51 2015 NZDT
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 20 08.421s 169 46.600e
Run: 6.9nm (12.5km)
Weather: 9kn SSE, moved around to Itchephav bay on NE corner of Aneityum. Remote,shelterd, and very nice!

Turns out that the policeman was away until Tuesday, so we were made to feel welcome and enjoy ourselves until then! Explored Mystery Island, which is an absolute delight.... until the cruiseliners arrive on Tuesdays and Thursdays ! We had it to ourselves, in glorious weather.Checked in yesterday (10 000Vatu), with further costs on departure (5000? for Immigration). Intend sailing to Tanna tomorrow( Port Resolution), from where we intend to do the Mt Yassa Volcano tour . Thereafter, will wait for good weather to check out at Lenakel, and set off to New Cal.

Wishing we had spent more time here, and less in Fiji!!


Sat Sep 26 11:00 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 20 14.374S 169 46.669e
Run: 10.7nm (19.4km)
Weather: 6kn SSE, beautiful anchorage, with turtle coming to check my anchor!

Glad to put the hook down ,after slow-ish, (3day 18hr) trip. Believe we have left some wet and miserable weather in Fiji, so its nice to have sunshine and blue skies here! Have called Aneityum customs on the radio, but do not really expect any response. We will probably do so a couple more times, and then go ashore on Monday to try and find '€œColin'€, the policeman who performs the Official functions here.


Sat Sep 26 11:00 2015 NZST
Speed:
4.0knts, 9nm from App Wp to Aneityum anchorage.
knts
GPS: 20 17.161s 169 56.146e
Run: 11.6nm (21km)
Avg: 3.4knts
24hr: 81.5nm
Weather: 10-15kn SSE

Arriving at sunrise on beautiful morning, after bit of a bumpy squally night, and a countercurrent 0.7 '€“ 1.4knots! Now we look forward to checking in with the '€œpoliceman'€!


Sat Sep 26 7:35 2015 NZST
GPS: 20 14s 169 46e
Run: 137.2nm (248.3km)
Avg: 5.5knts
24hr: 132.1nm
Weather: bumpy night but now 10-13SE, 1015, blue sky

8nm from Aneityum


Fri Sep 25 6:39 2015 NZST
Speed:
4.0knts, motoring into 1.2kn counter current
knts
GPS: 20 10.710s 171 52.830e
Run: 103.1nm (186.6km)
Avg: 4.4knts
24hr: 104.6nm
Weather: no wind ,3kn E , blue skies,Baro 1013, beautiful morning, but not for sailing!

Flat seas, waiting for southerly breeze to fill in. Planning tomorrow morning check in Aneityum, 119nm away at 06.30am.


Thu Sep 24 6:59 2015 NZST
Speed:
6.4knts,gentle m/sailing while charging batts.
knts
GPS: 19 25.189s 173 14.700e
Run: 161.3nm (292km)
Avg: 6.7knts
24hr: 159.9nm
Weather: wind 10kn E breeze,9/10 blue skies,Baro 1015

seas 1.5mts fromSE.Caught good Mahi Mahi yesterday, and had pleasant night sail in light breeze. Planning an early Sat morning check in at this stage in Aneityum.


Wed Sep 23 6:46 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.7knts
knts
GPS: 18 33.242s 175 32.188e
Run: 133.3nm (241.3km)
Avg: 6.1knts
24hr: 146.4nm
Weather: wind SE 15-20 knts clear blue skies

seas 1.5-1.8mts, going well, all good on board


Tue Sep 22 8:55 2015 NZST
Speed:
at anchor
knts
GPS: 17 45.392s 177 23.118e
Run: 11.5nm (20.8km)
Weather: 100% cloud, wind 10kt SE

Preparing to leave Denarau for Navula Passage to begin our trip to Aneityum, Vanuatu. The weather fundits have predicted a good passage, so lets hope they '€™re right


Mon Sep 21 11:34 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 35.915s, 177 26.391e

leaving tomorrow for Vanuatu, Aneityum, from Lautoka


Mon Sep 21 7:55 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 35.915s, 177 26.391e
Run: 20.3nm (36.7km)

leaving tomorrow for Vanuatu, Aneityum, from Lautoka


Fri Sep 4 21:57 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 46.234s 177 11.356e
Run: 46.5nm (84.2km)

Back in Musket, after a great couple of weeks in the Yasawa;s. Wiil spend a couple of days here, before heading back to Saweni, where we will stock up, and prepare to wait for a good window to Vanuatu, check out , and leave.


Mon Aug 31 16:38 2015 NZST
Speed:
00
knts
GPS: 17 06.570s 177 19.396e
Run: 11.9nm (21.5km)

No fish today!!


Sun Aug 30 10:06 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 56.573s 177 22.055e
Run: 48.4nm (87.6km)

Have spent relaxing couple of weeks in Blue lagoon area. Well protected anchorage,good holding, nice snorkling, beaches, Happy hour Lovo(earth oven feast), and Meke (traditional Dancing), as well if wanted. Now time to head back south, and looking to make a gentle start tomorrow.


Thu Jul 23 15:24 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 38.528s 177 23.673e
Run: 16.6nm (30km)

Great sail back to Saweni Bay from Musket Cove. 7 -8 knots, 19knots of SE wind , flat seas! Time to stock up again, before heading back to Musket next week, where we hope to meet up with our cruising mates, and make plans for the Yasawa's.

A big high below Fiji is causing brisk to strong SE winds, from which Saweni is protected. We have just received an email from other mates in Musket, saying the wind is howling! Guess the kite surfers there will be having a ball!


Wed Jul 8 14:07 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 46.430s 177 10.996e
Run: 16.5nm (29.9km)

Anchored at Mololo Lailai island (Musket Cove), having left Saweni Bay this morning. Wind predicted to be N,ENE, which gave us an easy run. Anchored in 18mts, with 70mts chain out, as winds predicted to be 20-25 tonight. Currently 15-17kn from North. This is a big change from the peace and quiet of Saweni, with jet skis, Para sailers, taxi boats, plus all the other frantic tourist hype!


Sat Jun 27 14:07 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 38.588s 177 23.598e
Run: 27.8nm (50.3km)
Weather: ESE winds 10-15 for most of morning, now 3-5 wsw.in Saweni.

Anchored in Saweni Bay where we will chill for the week end. Will deal with autopilot problem on Monday. Caught another new fish today! Yesterday a Torpedo scad, and today a Wolf Herring!Nearly ran aground on unmarked ( on Navionics charts!) shallow area while anchoring in Saweni. 17 38.60S,177 23.693 Shown to be 6-10mt on charts, but less than 2mts in fact.Does show up on Google earth overlays!ESE


Fri Jun 26 16:11 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 25.237s 177 44.702e
Run: 32.5nm (58.8km)
Weather: wind 15-20 SE, partly cloudy,some sun, no rain

Motor sailed around North of Viti Levu, from Nanau i Thake to Vitia Wharf, where we decided to drop the hook for the night. Caught nice Kingfish ( Trevally) en route, which will make a great Thai curry!


Wed Jun 24 6:41 2015 NZST
GPS: 17 18.942s 178 13.5210e
Run: 48.7nm (88.1km)
Weather: Woken up to mainly clear,sunny skies to the West, and high cloud to the East, with 3-4knots SSE wind.

Anchoredat 16.30 in Nananu i Thake, just beating the rain yesterday ! Intend spending about 3 days here just relaxing and enjoying. Motor sailed the whole 50 odd miles from Makogai in what turned out to be ideal conditions for us. The rain and poor visability kindly stayed behind us right up until we anchored. Wind then went W, to SW to S, reaching 15-20 during evening.


Tue Jun 23 5:28 2015 NZST
Speed:
00
knts
GPS: 17 26.519s 178 57.063e
Run: 41.1nm (74.4km)
Weather: overscaste, almost no wind, light drizzle at times. Looks like a day of slow and careful motoring,trusting Curly's WPS.

At anchor in Makogai, where we would love to stay for a few days...but weather and boat issues dictate otherwise. So we will continue today, past Naingani, and on to an anchorage on Viti Levu NE coast.


Mon Jun 22 8:11 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.5185
knts
GPS: 16 54.778s 179 14.141e
Run: 11.5nm (20.8km)
Weather: wind ENE 10-14, with bit of a lumpy beam sea. 100% high cloud cover.

Left SavuSavu yesterday evening, and anchored behind Cousteau resort near point, for early start today. Heading for Makongai to overnight, before carrying on to Viti Levu tomorrow.


Tue Jun 9 18:16 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 16 46.668s 179 20.148e

Arrived safely in SavuSavu this morning 8.00hrs. Glad to be here after more motoring, and more diesel used in one trip than we normally use in an entire years Blue water cruising! I supposed in the scheme of things, it beats the hell out of the other alternative! Thanks Dave and Patricia for your Radio and weather service, which we found pretty on the button! We will periodically update our whereabouts as we move through Fiji. We will continue to stay in touch as we move on to Vanuatu, New Cal, and Australia. regards, Rod & Mary


Tue Jun 9 17:59 2015 NZST
GPS: 16 46.668s 179 20.148e
Run: 127.7nm (231.1km)
Avg: 3.7knts
24hr: 88.1nm

Arrived safely in SavuSavu this morning 8.00hrs. Glad to be here after more motoring, and more diesel used in one trip than we normally use in an entire years Blue water cruising!

I supposed in the scheme of things, it beats the hell out of the other alternative! Thanks Dave and Patricia for your Radio and weather service, which we found pretty on the button! We will periodically update our whereabouts as we move through Fiji.We will continue to stay in touch as we move on to Vanuatu, New Cal, and Australia. regards, Rod & Mary


Mon Jun 8 7:12 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.1
knts
GPS: 18 16.900s 179 32.300w
Run: 204.9nm (370.9km)
Avg: 8.5knts
24hr: 204.5nm

Now within 120nm of SavuSavu after quiet night of motor sailing with 7knots of NE wind, and numerous drizzly squalls, which added up to 17knots of welcome breeze! Skies 90% cloud covered, with band of sunlight on horizen.THis was obviously the "indeterminite trough" around Fiji, to which Dave referred on your net. Plan to check in tomorrow morning ,during office hours!


Sun Jun 7 7:09 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.3
knts
GPS: 21 13.300s 179 08.300w
Run: 76.1nm (137.7km)
Avg: 3.2knts
24hr: 77.6nm

wind now dropped to 10-14 ENE, after being 18-20 most of night. Still got 2 reefs in main, which will change after SavuSavu Tuesday morning.Both well but bit short of sleep!


Sat Jun 6 7:36 2015 NZST
Speed:
338m
knts
GPS: 22 18S 178 54W
Run: 3.3nm (6km)
Avg: 8.9knts
24hr: 213.4nm
Weather: 100%c, 8SE, drizzle

on way to Savusavu from minerva


Sat Jun 6 7:14 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.2
knts
GPS: 22 20.830s 178 53.836w
Run: 90.9nm (164.5km)
Avg: 3.9knts
24hr: 92.8nm
Weather: 100% cloud cover, with light drizzle.Winds 8-9knots from SE..sea bit confused with 1.5-2.0mt swells from the South.

Departed Minerva 15.00hrs yesterday, hoping to arrive Savu Savu Tuesday AM ,before the trough and NE . Knew winds would be light, and have motor sailed, or motored since we left. Hoping for wind to fill in from noon today.


Fri Jun 5 7:43 2015 NZST
GPS: 23 39.721S 178 54.59W
Run: 3nm (5.4km)
Weather: 60%cc, 7-10S

another pleasant day in N Minerva


Thu Jun 4 9:59 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 37.109s 178 54.882w
Run: 3nm (5.4km)
Weather: Wind 9-12 knots from N , 50% cloud cover, with more cloud cover to the North.. Temp is a warm 26deg C.

Still anchored in Minerva,with 6 other yachts, all probably waiting to set off for Fiji on Saturday. Walked around on the Northern side of the reef at low tide yesterday, and enjoyed a grilled steak on Scott Free, after watching a beautiful sunset. A quite magical place .... when the weather is benign! Expecting a weak trough to pass through today, and for the wind to turn SE thereafter.


Wed Jun 3 7:37 2015 NZST
GPS: 23 39.721S 178 54.59W
Run: 3nm (5.4km)
Weather: dead flat, 5N. Will get the front late tomorrow

will contiue to enjoy the experience of being anchored in the ocean.. 5 other boats there.


Tue Jun 2 17:01 2015 NZST
Speed:
0
knts
GPS: 23 37.096s 178 54.910w
Run: 19.3nm (34.9km)

At anchor in a millpond in the middle of the south Pacific. Minerva Reef is an unique place! Here until some favourable wind comes up!


Tue Jun 2 6:51 2015 NZST
Speed:
4.9
knts
GPS: 23 43s 179 12w
Run: 132nm (238.9km)
Avg: 5.7knts
24hr: 137.6nm

Motored through the night and at 0700h are approx 10nm from North Minerva Reef. We'll stay until that weak front moves through and hopefully some wind fills in. Its the skipper's birthday today, so am still hoping to get a nice fish for dinner!


Mon Jun 1 7:50 2015 NZST
Speed:
5..1
knts
GPS: 24 46s 179 03e
Run: 125.9nm (227.9km)
Avg: 5.2knts
24hr: 125nm
Weather: winds 5=7knots from South, clear sky, calm seas, but still a little lumpy!

Gently motorsailing to Minerva North. 130nm to go, so plan tomorrow mid morning entrance through the pass. Beautiful full moon night... pity there was only 6 knots of wind, so Perkins had to keep ticking over.


Sun May 31 7:40 2015 NZST
GPS: 26 01s 177 35e
Run: 138.9nm (251.4km)
Avg: 6knts
24hr: 145.1nm

Still motoring, no wind. Hoping to pick up 10kt SE breeze later. All well on board, just weary of the engine noise!


Sat May 30 8:42 2015 NZST
Speed:
5
knts
GPS: 27 57.s 176 58e
Run: 123.9nm (224.3km)
Avg: 4.9knts
24hr: 117.7nm

Motoring for 12 hours, several very wet squalls. Just turned off the engine and sailing gently in flat conditions.....lovely. As I write, its just started to rain again!


Fri May 29 7:26 2015 NZST
Speed:
5
knts
GPS: 29 39.4s 176 20.5e
Run: 143.2nm (259.2km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 141.4nm
Weather: East 10knots,sea flat, overcast with a few squalls

Mostly good gentle sailing, flat sea, occasional squalls early morning, not packing much wind. All well on board.


Thu May 28 7:08 2015 NZST
Speed:
4.2
knts
GPS: 31 39s 175 41e
Run: 142.7nm (258.3km)
Avg: 5.9knts
24hr: 142.5nm
Weather: Wind S, 6-8knots, sea 0.5mts, calm, now building.Lighting to East thru night.

Made good progress during morning, with 20kn wsw winds, buckets of rain, and the odd squall packing 30+knots. Wind dropped in pm, and cleared up some, before backing round to S, and dropping to 5kn in evening. Motoring due north at 4-5knots, with wing on wing to pick occassional 8-9knot puff!


Wed May 27 7:06 2015 NZST
Speed:
5.9
knts
GPS: 33 38s 175 00e
Run: 126.6nm (229.1km)
Avg: 2.9knts
24hr: 70.4nm

Bit bouncy with winds fluctuating quite a lot,between 8 and 24, and wsw,sw to ssws


Mon May 25 11:58 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 18.901s 174 07.279e

Moored in Opua Marina. Intending to leave for Savusavu tomorrow around midday. Will start our progress reports each morning while on passage.


Wed May 13 11:08 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 18.902s 174 07.279e
Run: 0.3nm (0.5km)
Weather: No wind, sunny

Moored in the marina to charge batteries and do all the pre-departure chores


Sat May 2 12:43 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 18.828s 174 07.606e
Run: 6nm (10.9km)
Weather: gorgeous day, water cold

anchored.


Sat May 2 8:54 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 15.55S 174 12.5E
Run: 6nm (10.9km)

Anchored in Upunga Cove


Fri May 1 11:05 2015 NZST
GPS: 35 18.828S 174 07.605E

Opua mooring, NZ


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