tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17480848438260315152024-03-13T08:44:14.772+00:00BANDIT"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, head away from the safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Mark TwainBrenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.comBlogger143125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-55202739895719817352015-12-06T05:32:00.001+00:002016-04-28T02:11:07.985+01:00A wonderful English summer<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Tennis at Wimbledon, Burghley Horse Trials, cricket at Lord’s, polo at Beaufort, international show-jumping at Hickstead, the air show at Duxford, visiting magnificent English gardens…oh and some pretty damn fine summer weather. Our five months in England was absolutely amazing. We saw England in its glorious summer finery with a few grey days and rainy thrown in just for good measure. Being able to sip Pimm's at events such as Wimbledon and Hickstead were an added bonus but then that is the great thing about England - there is always something happening.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KEBGp1qZ53o/VmPHwVvF4GI/AAAAAAAALGs/1_Msh7RRQGg/s1600-h/_DSC130911.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1309" border="0" alt="_DSC1309" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eqNZu-h137g/VmPHxGv_J7I/AAAAAAAALGw/Kuovmr0Dk4g/_DSC1309_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="474" height="357"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">All those wearisome jokes about English weather have been cast aside as we were treated to some wonderfully sunny days, and evenings that seemed to go on and on. At the height of summer it was light at about 4.30am and the sun didn’t set until well after 10pm. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had some fantastic “sits” in wonderful homes ranging from grand manor houses in the beautiful English countryside to elegant houses in leafy suburban streets. Our animals were an assorted lot including rescue greyhounds, entertaining pugdogs (they are hilarious), a lovely German shepherd, lots of Labradors and retrievers (our favourites), lurchers, spaniels and the ever gentle and sweet whippets. We also had cats, chooks, goats, Shetland ponies, donkeys and Irish hunters. Perhaps our most intriguing charge was a rescue hedgehog named Henry…we never saw him but each morning his feed bowl was empty. At the same property we fed wild red kites, badgers, deer and a tame barn owl.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2qEygm_BBrE/VmPHx_prgRI/AAAAAAAALG8/aEQv7qrpZ9o/s1600-h/IMG_158312.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1583" border="0" alt="IMG_1583" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eQArW-nyfjM/VmPHyhLKH7I/AAAAAAAALHA/HtcDUKY3f_U/IMG_1583_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="187"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Iv2XXE747zU/VmPHzwzpqyI/AAAAAAAALHM/O69j4OFNTqQ/s1600-h/IMG_147915.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1479" border="0" alt="IMG_1479" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0HpY2Ic5wP4/VmPH0bqf6RI/AAAAAAAALHQ/ZgXMkQ0Ms98/IMG_1479_thumb19.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="185"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">House and animal sitting is all about being totally adaptable. We live in and out of suitcases as you are constantly on the move and never really know what situation you are about to walk into. But it’s always exciting and enjoyable with few mishaps (I did manage to lock myself out of one house and had to be rescued by a locksmith!!). It was wonderful to catch up with fellow Animal Aunts David and Nic Cambridge to discuss tactics. They have been Animal Aunting for a few years now and thoroughly enjoying it. Frank and Maria Nelson were also back in town for an AA stint which was fantastic.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F83ly4brlSY/VmPH1WP09hI/AAAAAAAALHc/fJ6tCBUZT6Q/s1600-h/IMG_15278.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1527" border="0" alt="IMG_1527" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lifadqS9UE0/VmPH2FQ78mI/AAAAAAAALHg/2Gu5Z2guiRY/IMG_1527_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="185"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a list of "summer" activities to tick off and top was visiting Wimbledon so on our one day off in July we headed to the hallowed grounds. It was a beautifully fine day and luck was on our side as we not only managed to walk straight in without queuing but ended up with “resale” Centre Court tickets. It was fantastic to watch Serena Williams in action. Earlier, we’d sat with a well behaved yet lively crowd sipping Pimm’s on Henman Hill watching on the big screen. Tennis absorbed us for all of June and into July with the French Open and Wimbledon live on BBC. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hhcdRK_Cef8/VmPH3Nwvd8I/AAAAAAAALHs/KVcJ_9Ecb3U/s1600-h/IMG_15685.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1568" border="0" alt="IMG_1568" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lvG_qGpLwDs/VmPH38qpYLI/AAAAAAAALH0/QzDrGN6moSk/IMG_1568_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="504"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pCuqMj4wvNo/VmPH48IVwnI/AAAAAAAALH8/nhCa_HvbET8/s1600-h/_DSC12734.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1273" border="0" alt="_DSC1273" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aMklgtO6rEM/VmPH5nmFtKI/AAAAAAAALIA/v1EqfBolVIg/_DSC1273_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="162"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFM7IV9ds6k/VmPH6irUR6I/AAAAAAAALIM/YEJGQK3mqGM/s1600-h/_DSC12773.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1277" border="0" alt="_DSC1277" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gmk04h1B_yU/VmPH7RfmpPI/AAAAAAAALIQ/pQI79rjXRjM/_DSC1277_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bWUnM6jmfjI/VmPH8ZPXeqI/AAAAAAAALIc/DiKIOCizuUY/s1600-h/_DSC12717.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1271" border="0" alt="_DSC1271" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MgZwW2oYW58/VmPH9PyDpuI/AAAAAAAALIg/vvfbvwYJqwU/_DSC1271_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="337"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Hickstead was top of my list and we had a wonderful day there. A month later I was at Syon Park for the Logines International Showjumping watching the world’s best competing for $1million prizemoney. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">We also managed to do a fair bit of Royal watching. First up was the State Opening of Parliament followed a few weeks later by the Trooping of the Colour. It’s always thrilling seeing British pomp and pageantry especially the mounted Household Cavalry. We got a great spot in the Mall and saw all the Royals at close hand before moving up to Buckingham Palace </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">for the flypast.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fRNy5Sm3qYo/VmPH94Ub9OI/AAAAAAAALIs/qt6kQERfDuk/s1600-h/balcony7.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="balcony" border="0" alt="balcony" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dYI8uX3EjJ0/VmPH-SoHedI/AAAAAAAALIw/I5XodFPgfAg/balcony_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="252"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jS5E6ev8YwA/VmPH_H08LAI/AAAAAAAALI8/v6bw5mBdyq4/s1600-h/camilla9.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="camilla" border="0" alt="camilla" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y8n2qX5ANM0/VmPH_xqUxEI/AAAAAAAALJA/o3XVM-KKMB8/camilla_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="172"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-frUNllWTCgA/VmPIA7jg3vI/AAAAAAAALJM/nzQVQ5GzHeE/s1600-h/anne7.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="anne" border="0" alt="anne" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pAn1nrYGfnM/VmPIBekEk6I/AAAAAAAALJQ/QC6f5WBYFuk/anne_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="169"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T9RwB2wapw8/VmPICn_zYOI/AAAAAAAALJc/Nbpe0OuZ1DE/s1600-h/DSC_901110.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_9011" border="0" alt="DSC_9011" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ufjJZShDfB0/VmPIDWuET8I/AAAAAAAALJk/GaAqn3cdgpo/DSC_9011_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-udKaAfwW_Ek/VmPIEG1zaPI/AAAAAAAALJs/_BH5QUxyGJM/s1600-h/drummer8.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="drummer" border="0" alt="drummer" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9m4SEo18LWY/VmPIE_WijYI/AAAAAAAALJw/o3rX5lNeuMs/drummer_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="227"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uyLaTkjZK7Y/VmPIFmwktFI/AAAAAAAALJ8/nJq9PNOOETI/s1600-h/DSC_90134.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_9013" border="0" alt="DSC_9013" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QdYJpxZEEgk/VmPIGds-RXI/AAAAAAAALKA/paeZzI1GRZM/DSC_9013_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="242"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Then there was the polo. After finishing a sit in the New Forest we headed up to Gloucestershire to catch up with Sally Wigley, who was visiting daughter Annabel. The Princes were playing in the annual Gloucestershire Festival of Polo and it was obligatory to pop along. Afterwards we managed to explore the beautiful Cotswolds towns of Tetbury and Cirencester. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0xMC24D5wBc/VmPIHIJNFQI/AAAAAAAALKM/JSyClF5FoIs/s1600-h/Princes-of-polo7.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Princes of polo" border="0" alt="Princes of polo" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WxML8S0K0Jk/VmPIH-4EObI/AAAAAAAALKQ/IwW6HJAZ39o/Princes-of-polo_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="351"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l0xM_pcwpmM/VmPIIgwygoI/AAAAAAAALKc/-82QiPrM-dQ/s1600-h/IMG_1511.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1511" border="0" alt="IMG_1511" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZeISNXjC5m0/VmPIJgBDkVI/AAAAAAAALKg/tg6CqA-akI4/IMG_1511_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="188"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CmkbRuKFclk/VmPIKFjZlsI/AAAAAAAALKs/9d0QDWpBQh8/s1600-h/DSC_01665.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0166" border="0" alt="DSC_0166" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s-f3JaP_5ow/VmPIK9r5qdI/AAAAAAAALKw/aV4p9HYx64A/DSC_0166_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="162"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GDdU3xQ70gI/VmPIL3o17WI/AAAAAAAALK8/h6gaGSJzeF8/s1600-h/DSC_02437.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0243" border="0" alt="DSC_0243" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xHhqGxQ5Q7I/VmPIMppIhCI/AAAAAAAALLE/HUZFAIA5b4I/DSC_0243_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="337"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JWQx8XckaB8/VmPINbcBPCI/AAAAAAAALLM/3IjHILJKIxw/s1600-h/DSC_023983.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0239[8]" border="0" alt="DSC_0239[8]" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VHAFA27-3BA/VmPIN9tihYI/AAAAAAAALLQ/-Fj4wNinTyU/DSC_02398_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="334"></a> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9oMxWTX_h5s/VmPIOtLmnyI/AAAAAAAALLc/OsHulQWCUl8/s1600-h/DSC_02558.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0255" border="0" alt="DSC_0255" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KstLFhgp6ho/VmPIPBbQCBI/AAAAAAAALLg/OUXeHbt-0W8/DSC_0255_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="334"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Joining the National Trust enable us to explore some wonderful stately homes and gardens including Polesdon Lacey. We visited on a Sunday jazz day in magnificent weather. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vWxl2Ht-I5E/VmPIQBTHsRI/AAAAAAAALLo/AX8dJNQ8pvM/s1600-h/Polesden-Lacey-House-0408069.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Polesden-Lacey-House-040806" border="0" alt="Polesden-Lacey-House-040806" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mU1ewoCfN_8/VmPIQjt_knI/AAAAAAAALLw/Fr1I0pldp1I/Polesden-Lacey-House-040806_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="283"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aIzkrMPIBbE/VmPIRmwSHUI/AAAAAAAALL4/h6MAJWWdYKs/s1600-h/750_07088.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="750_0708" border="0" alt="750_0708" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EJFdUeuEi50/VmPISLjnO_I/AAAAAAAALL8/dlom7NoW2I0/750_0708_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="162"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PXSnz_JL_50/VmPITsmKo4I/AAAAAAAALMM/1wZh9Ly657o/s1600-h/750_06367.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="750_0636" border="0" alt="750_0636" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dWRTfm4pQBg/VmPIUEdAP3I/AAAAAAAALMQ/OtxhiUqxgC4/750_0636_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SeXMJjXV1_w/VmPIVK7lDvI/AAAAAAAALMc/sh-Trw2yiVE/s1600-h/_DSC11984.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1198" border="0" alt="_DSC1198" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GxHiyf4aLTQ/VmPIViFt0YI/AAAAAAAALMg/p91NjKEAk0I/_DSC1198_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="193"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5nIjBlFrlp4/VmPIWtimcZI/AAAAAAAALMs/tRbr90fNybI/s1600-h/_DSC12033.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="_DSC1203" border="0" alt="_DSC1203" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k3VKp8XByL8/VmPIXNYWchI/AAAAAAAALMw/Wda6aZfWnIY/_DSC1203_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xqVV0XGmS4I/VmPIYabYZ1I/AAAAAAAALM8/23yIPhGlb9E/s1600-h/750_0697_019.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="750_0697_01" border="0" alt="750_0697_01" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xOToBjIGL64/VmPIZNbDo2I/AAAAAAAALNE/C-6Mf2aBO48/750_0697_01_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="337"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We were lucky to be in London for most of August, firstly in Fulham then in Hornchurch and had lovely properties and fantastic dogs. Our last sit was at the end of August and we then headed to Burghley for the prestigious annual horse trials. I was covering the event for stuff.co.nz and David was photographer. We both loved being part of the media contingent and the Kiwi riders were absolutely wonderful when it came to giving quotes and being photographed. They all performed brilliantly with Tim and Jonelle Price taking out third and fifth respectively. A great end to our summer in the UK.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K2FnKMhHOaw/VmPIZxF-w2I/AAAAAAAALNM/SIQ6d4qCdWk/s1600-h/Todd%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Todd" border="0" alt="Todd" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kJjofS7uLRY/VmPIaornU9I/AAAAAAAALNQ/Z1HXYfOj5C8/Todd_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="214" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IWw6Rv_WVhA/VmPIbSa-VeI/AAAAAAAALNc/cbHY4SPp1_s/s1600-h/DSC_2784%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_2784" border="0" alt="DSC_2784" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iFMwbJFPL7w/VmPIcPifyTI/AAAAAAAALNg/SHkb36rNR4c/DSC_2784_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gBrmX72V0MQ/VmPIdIwST7I/AAAAAAAALNs/aoreGf532Uo/s1600-h/DSC_2835%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_2835" border="0" alt="DSC_2835" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sK8uNmltpeU/VmPId0ye35I/AAAAAAAALNw/YrOCyMd_ioY/DSC_2835_thumb%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="337"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-72452438006992191082015-06-17T09:53:00.001+01:002015-06-21T12:47:32.728+01:00A brief Highland fling<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Given David’s fondness for a wee dram, it was surprising he had never visited Scotland. I’d been briefly but only to Edinburgh and Perth. Arriving in the UK in early May, before our house/animal sitting began in earnest, it seemed the ideal time to rectify matters. We flew into Edinburgh and, after a day and night exploring this beautiful city, picked up a rental car and headed for the highlands. We drove north to Inverness through breath-taking countryside, visiting spectacular Balmoral Castle and driving through several ski fields on the way.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pehGcUGwclc/VYE0PcBnq_I/AAAAAAAAK80/mkj-xtRWXXI/s1600-h/DSC_83658.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8365" border="0" alt="DSC_8365" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K6m080T_MTQ/VYE0QXJIjtI/AAAAAAAAK88/LQutF6nzhUE/DSC_8365_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ij2KK0aDNsI/VYE0RebiQSI/AAAAAAAAK9E/SgQ0D1a_Ns0/s1600-h/DSC_836411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8364" border="0" alt="DSC_8364" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WoToJwS5UVs/VYE0R3rNhhI/AAAAAAAAK9I/NRf41Mbhmx0/DSC_8364_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GO8rPrLd-Hs/VYE0Tcsq_GI/AAAAAAAAK9U/vOVaK7-59Do/s1600-h/DSC_83748.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8374" border="0" alt="DSC_8374" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_reNhNnrB6Q/VYE0T185bhI/AAAAAAAAK9Y/b3iC9hH0OvU/DSC_8374_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-efMlob7L4PY/VYE0VWK5SRI/AAAAAAAAK9k/l74X89LwyHk/s1600-h/DSC_83883.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8388" border="0" alt="DSC_8388" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CICuSh8QTm4/VYE0WGfwdmI/AAAAAAAAK9o/YCv3xRo6V4I/DSC_8388_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i47Zpn-5JN8/VYE0X70XAgI/AAAAAAAAK90/vsKIMIaeEpg/s1600-h/DSC_83957.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8395" border="0" alt="DSC_8395" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L6C9B5JmKSY/VYE0YzA0_bI/AAAAAAAAK98/xVEGJOjOKGg/DSC_8395_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gOkcs2ZkXKk/VYE0Z8NPUtI/AAAAAAAAK-E/pOTwW0V0pYY/s1600-h/DSC_83979.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8397" border="0" alt="DSC_8397" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z4nU-nLFaZ8/VYE0aksw-hI/AAAAAAAAK-M/IkCPWFSF9EM/DSC_8397_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Friends who’d visited waxed lyrical about Scotland’s beauty but nothing quite prepared us for the magnificence of the highlands – the remoteness, the vastness and the sheer and spectacular beauty were overwhelming. From Inverness we headed up the coast visiting the privately owned and treasure filled Dunrobin Castle with its immaculately manicured formal gardens. We were lucky enough to be in time for the magnificent falconry display.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QzJ13_btkPk/VYE0dHquzDI/AAAAAAAAK-U/wI7OWrSbqR0/s1600-h/DSC_84183.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8418" border="0" alt="DSC_8418" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IUNuJgXXEvU/VYE0d7c-opI/AAAAAAAAK-c/1LG9-Dt7IgI/DSC_8418_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-truEG-1ESlE/VYE0fFPX45I/AAAAAAAAK-k/efdwap_9McE/s1600-h/DSC_84364.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8436" border="0" alt="DSC_8436" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8rPPsWbn94I/VYE0ftT-9qI/AAAAAAAAK-o/B1qL4nDnDPw/DSC_8436_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-its5vh75D-A/VYE0hdJ4lRI/AAAAAAAAK-0/DUR3Vntin4s/s1600-h/DSC_84568.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8456" border="0" alt="DSC_8456" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EppkNA4nVUU/VYE0kdMFEdI/AAAAAAAAK-8/kW2cqDCwNts/DSC_8456_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">On we drove, through magnificent country to the north coast where we were awed by the beauty of this rugged coastline. The white sandy beaches and crystal clear water were not what we expected in this part of the world! Durness, near the north west point of the aptly named Cape Wrath was a stunning spot- we strolled on the beach soaking up the late afternoon sunlight without realising it was in fact 9pm…the long evenings were wonderful.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-alSXH6yf5Ug/VYE0lqxfojI/AAAAAAAAK_E/dwgWAjj0qDU/s1600-h/DSC_84614.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8461" border="0" alt="DSC_8461" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k9DLiFVmDnI/VYE0mGzUp4I/AAAAAAAAK_I/Dfk3jrv_bPE/DSC_8461_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GHpPBaEj7EI/VYE0ndRewmI/AAAAAAAAK_U/KKp_RkfEcso/s1600-h/DSC_84903.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8490" border="0" alt="DSC_8490" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ObM6Att6uAc/VYE0n8VnMDI/AAAAAAAAK_Y/WhCQZ2tPKR4/DSC_8490_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KBUKYo3tK1U/VYE0pX3IXSI/AAAAAAAAK_k/pQaljA9dIoA/s1600-h/DSC_849319.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8493" border="0" alt="DSC_8493" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ug_6POxAbt0/VYE0q-sy7OI/AAAAAAAAK_s/mNgXVd3Awl4/DSC_8493_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a5YiIS_CceE/VYE0rqZRwVI/AAAAAAAAK_0/OqBpKCpHoNA/s1600-h/DSC_85293.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8529" border="0" alt="DSC_8529" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ybksQIYf-Bc/VYE0syn51BI/AAAAAAAAK_8/2ITxotyO360/DSC_8529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PNnFZMEbDtk/VYE0uAzn1DI/AAAAAAAALAE/6yhQYEOvD3E/s1600-h/DSC_85127.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8512" border="0" alt="DSC_8512" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oV8_uU5aRF0/VYE0u1olqXI/AAAAAAAALAI/wlppAnFVfCA/DSC_8512_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Slowly and carefully we tackled the narrow and winding coastal roads, constantly stopping to admire the startling views. After several days of blue sky Scotland decided to show us her true colours; the rain came as did the wind and suddenly the landscape and lochs changed from blue and green to gloomy grey. The temperature plummeted and as the rain became torrential we decided to stop. We found a wonderful hotel at Shieldag on the edge of Loch Torridon, booked a room overlooking the loch and hunkered down in front of the fire with the Sunday Paper and a bottle of red. The Loch looked both magnificent and menacing as the wind whipped up the waves. <font face="Comic Sans MS">The weather abated enough the next day for us to drive the tortuous single track Bealach na Ba to Applecross. Rising to 626m with hairpin bends it was heart in mouth stuff, especially with swirling mist! </font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Apr62bjC8YQ/VYE0v2yT7XI/AAAAAAAALAU/tk_5NjRBFqQ/s1600-h/DSC_85458.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8545" border="0" alt="DSC_8545" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gRWuyiAIWVM/VYE0wesvUrI/AAAAAAAALAc/7n2Im0d7sss/DSC_8545_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7qFVyqiSooc/VYE0yVgh4BI/AAAAAAAALAk/M0iFFUIIsMI/s1600-h/DSC_85523.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8552" border="0" alt="DSC_8552" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K6lDH03YZuQ/VYE0y3keKWI/AAAAAAAALAo/P-uLRym_dbU/DSC_8552_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ycm3yxdlkC4/VYE01EUXHJI/AAAAAAAALA0/W3Jaeo8kwtE/s1600-h/DSC_85624.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8562" border="0" alt="DSC_8562" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fm0-ogULmQg/VYE017BH58I/AAAAAAAALA4/lDB1Ea_0rTw/DSC_8562_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ezp5tOvmUVA/VYE04DBGZ5I/AAAAAAAALBE/YKz2AVDWGSg/s1600-h/DSC_857111.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8571" border="0" alt="DSC_8571" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kAXBdTM-d3g/VYE04wJU7sI/AAAAAAAALBM/j_VmTIgAnTA/DSC_8571_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our visit to the Isle of Skye was particularly memorable mainly for the weather – horizontal rain and biting winds - but they did accentuate this island’s raw beauty. What else should one do on a miserable Scottish day but visit the Talisker distillery? Later that evening in the picturesque town of Portree, with the weather still ghastly, it seemed the only thing to do was to find a nice bar and enjoy more of this delicious peaty single malt. It’s not hard to find a nice pub here and the whiskeys speak for themselves.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yadRr52Y4Bk/VYE06CJuKAI/AAAAAAAALBU/KpBgEpBRpjg/s1600-h/DSC_8636%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8636" border="0" alt="DSC_8636" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E9qtL2WsB_4/VYE06648CuI/AAAAAAAALBc/MhGfD7QmVws/DSC_8636_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t8de98DnDqs/VYE0-fgtBuI/AAAAAAAALBk/TNQ1t3sqMn8/s1600-h/DSC_86516.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8651" border="0" alt="DSC_8651" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EFWao8_MBrk/VYE1BJJYTgI/AAAAAAAALBs/14_4Ede8M24/DSC_8651_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wVAaZwVk6Ko/VYE1B0Un5kI/AAAAAAAALB0/QwaXbpPWrQk/s1600-h/DSC_86803.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8680" border="0" alt="DSC_8680" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HyNgzfY6t80/VYE1CpuJCaI/AAAAAAAALB4/ZlNC65Im7Ok/DSC_8680_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CliogJw_wN4/VYE1F5a7NmI/AAAAAAAALCE/aaujiPWfLS8/s1600-h/DSC_86852.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8685" border="0" alt="DSC_8685" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OZvnlgIho7g/VYE1HPfkucI/AAAAAAAALCM/GoNKZtm27Dg/DSC_8685_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h8uiGrtJL50/VYE1ITlp2UI/AAAAAAAALCU/7eyb2lzQDX4/s1600-h/DSC_8835%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8835" border="0" alt="DSC_8835" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Y-qHZiDIog/VYE1JOwWDPI/AAAAAAAALCc/3qedDoGAQGA/DSC_8835_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">From Skye we took the ferry across to Mallaig and drove through to Fort William enjoying a wonderful leisurely drive around beautiful Loch Leven and visiting the scenic Glencoe valley and town, site of the 1692 massacre of Clan McDonald.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h3XpWfyuWs8/VYE1KsfOA-I/AAAAAAAALCk/P1JmJXhmWYg/s1600-h/DSC_87633.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8763" border="0" alt="DSC_8763" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VUa1oVFPLrA/VYE1LPrFBKI/AAAAAAAALCo/ZxCsIbMhZqc/DSC_8763_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-exhdnR8GO50/VYE1MyL0HrI/AAAAAAAALC0/twYm3IN8zA0/s1600-h/DSC_87814.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8781" border="0" alt="DSC_8781" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ClaAFCauq4E/VYE1NpCYoRI/AAAAAAAALC4/O_YZWHX9g8Y/DSC_8781_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ieRbvK7IecI/VYE1Ohj5skI/AAAAAAAALDE/kcJOXCdUNLU/s1600-h/DSC_87896.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8789" border="0" alt="DSC_8789" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vhczih1Zqas/VYE1PD1Km7I/AAAAAAAALDI/oDlVK8coyBA/DSC_8789_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M6UJNZPXL20/VYE1P61aoCI/AAAAAAAALDU/wC1VCZoSqsw/s1600-h/DSC_88018.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8801" border="0" alt="DSC_8801" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BVpjpBDVtzc/VYE1QulLdZI/AAAAAAAALDc/a9d_IhY0ios/DSC_8801_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EFxaLL4CUfY/VYE1RxgAjUI/AAAAAAAALDk/lVQOlX45-WE/s1600-h/DSC_88234.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8823" border="0" alt="DSC_8823" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxBFo5oIRYI/VYE1S48dwrI/AAAAAAAALDs/dAq2t7Tc0sA/DSC_8823_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">One of the highlights was spending a night in picturesque Inverary. The first room we were given at the Argyll Hotel looked nothing like it did on the website so we complained (nicely) and were immediately upgraded to a huge room with a four poster bed and deep bath – bliss. The buildings in Inverary are painted white with black accent – even shop signs conform. Nearby, set in beautiful grounds with a seriously impressive stable complex is the privately owned Inverary Castle, home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lgdbpc551MU/VYE1UauhLnI/AAAAAAAALD0/eACRJM9t4hk/s1600-h/DSC_8868%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8868" border="0" alt="DSC_8868" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3lvNKaFh1HU/VYE1VThJIlI/AAAAAAAALD8/d6_639dYdo0/DSC_8868_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="314"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v7rTk73Cksc/VYE1WrBm-KI/AAAAAAAALEE/g9fI5i6ryHM/s1600-h/DSC_8863%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8863" border="0" alt="DSC_8863" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TqKBC13pmx0/VYE1XLlNb5I/AAAAAAAALEI/Z7RFDVd5gD8/DSC_8863_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FU0lTCA2PH0/VYE1ZfJIQeI/AAAAAAAALEU/_ec_w07x2cA/s1600-h/DSC_8854%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8854" border="0" alt="DSC_8854" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jeEkMCV8aSo/VYE1Z_GYVbI/AAAAAAAALEY/SfeguS2Xhhg/DSC_8854_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QaP7GyaJKb0/VYE1bQZQFeI/AAAAAAAALEk/oCADFkxSRVU/s1600-h/DSC_8878%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8878" border="0" alt="DSC_8878" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lXO-3322hOM/VYE1cLVwlpI/AAAAAAAALEs/Hwm1TrfIoB0/DSC_8878_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N_eWkA-SxQo/VYE1d8ACxZI/AAAAAAAALE0/4rH2WYrf3C0/s1600-h/DSC_8906%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8906" border="0" alt="DSC_8906" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yiK-ikMwdkc/VYE1fvz-oKI/AAAAAAAALE8/zNR3BuZ_1jY/DSC_8906_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T67G5uGs0dc/VYE1g5TtLQI/AAAAAAAALFE/FMtOiQQTbkQ/s1600-h/DSC_8904%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8904" border="0" alt="DSC_8904" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3udn2Bt_nhs/VYE1hWYOgXI/AAAAAAAALFI/p5vgJz2h8I0/DSC_8904_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iUHOtClWi48/VYE1iVxzFLI/AAAAAAAALFU/5wzDCfweEHU/s1600-h/DSC_8938%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8938" border="0" alt="DSC_8938" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I48ca4W7WtA/VYE1i4AbczI/AAAAAAAALFY/mJUmACO978Q/DSC_8938_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bPlSXT6gMX4/VYE1kPWI0dI/AAAAAAAALFk/5bzOGlEy8Q0/s1600-h/DSC_8939%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8939" border="0" alt="DSC_8939" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dI45dfTlCG0/VYE1k-qu0KI/AAAAAAAALFs/oS6YxlxnJKU/DSC_8939_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="481" height="354"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our time was running out so we reluctantly headed for Glasgow via Loch Lomond planning to do a cruise. Once again the weather intervened and with the loch looking particularly gloomy we instead headed to Stirling and visited the magnificent castle. Then it was on through the beautiful border country to Jedburgh to stay with David’s cousin Biddy and husband Bob. They were wonderful hosts and we had a fantastic night with them. Next day we were up early to get the car back to Edinburgh for our flight back to London. It was a whirlwind trip but the magic of Scotland made its mark.</font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-35185512176036907372015-06-09T12:46:00.001+01:002015-06-09T12:46:10.156+01:00A sojourn in Shanghai<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We knew our feet would itch again and after six months in New Zealand they certainly needed scratching. Lots of places to go and dozens of countries on the “to do” list… but, as we’d never had a summer in the UK, (when Bandit was in the Mediterranean we spent winters here) it beckoned the most. We went via Shanghai which satisfied our eastern urge (for now) but it almost came to a shuddering halt. We were still recovering from our hair raising taxi ride to our hotel when things began to go pear shaped.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QPzZxMZxkQg/VXbQl3Qqm5I/AAAAAAAAK2w/RcX8F8y4D7w/s1600-h/DSC_8232%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8232" border="0" alt="DSC_8232" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vC1KcugNEek/VXbQnG85InI/AAAAAAAAK24/JkRIVgzD6WM/DSC_8232_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="338"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> Being communist, China is predictably wrapped up in red tape. As we were staying less than 72 hours we didn’t need a visa and simply had to present our onward tickets and proof of accommodation to immigration. After close scrutiny of documents and multiple questions the official stamped our passports and off we headed. Now – who ever looks at their stamp? Not us. We just grabbed our passports and headed off…big mistake. On arrival at the hotel they checked our passports and pointed out the stamp only gave us 24 hours. The hotel therefore couldn’t let us stay any longer. Grr!! I won’t bore you with the long winded story but needless to say – we spent hours trying to sort it out, visiting various offices and running into brick walls. The only upside was we saw a lot of Shanghai! It seemed the only solution was returning to immigration at the airport which was miles away and we certainly didn’t want to spend our precious time in Shanghai doing that especially given it was not our fault. Eventually, after a bit of pressure, the hotel relented and let us stay the extra night. Phew.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m9-SOxtJahY/VXbQpbRhsGI/AAAAAAAAK3A/U0E3tK94WT4/s1600-h/DSC_8256%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8256" border="0" alt="DSC_8256" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bDKIYvnaPDU/VXbQqlddKNI/AAAAAAAAK3I/Eanot_sSXx8/DSC_8256_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XDxPjN2nqRk/VXbQtC5WcwI/AAAAAAAAK3Q/D_h9GxZVCkI/s1600-h/DSC_8254%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8254" border="0" alt="DSC_8254" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7JyCsJIC3DA/VXbQtrY1HII/AAAAAAAAK3U/ogQbypGn1lA/DSC_8254_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hjiFGEXdBpc/VXbQwH3tFcI/AAAAAAAAK3g/LjHu7PsOfuY/s1600-h/DSC_8266%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8266" border="0" alt="DSC_8266" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-auMheCpL3B4/VXbQxERIewI/AAAAAAAAK3o/EdK-_JJWSkY/DSC_8266_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Passport issued dealt with (we thought) we headed out and walked our feet off exploring the fascinating backstreets, the bustling markets, the popular areas along the river and the peaceful parks full of locals doing Tai Chi. One day we took a bus to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao – an astonishing place. The hotel staff, who spoke good English, gave us directions and fortunately, wrote the name down in Mandarin. That was a bonus as bus destinations are not in English! None of the drivers or passengers spoke English and it took some wild gesticulating on our part to confirm the destination.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-djtKDMDXmbU/VXbQzJE9GZI/AAAAAAAAK3w/Lem7BMxoFGk/s1600-h/DSC_8268%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8268" border="0" alt="DSC_8268" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-83ku4faAzYE/VXbQz1wqD4I/AAAAAAAAK34/CFQiTJ5ckLY/DSC_8268_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1Axe_Yl7cgw/VXbQ4vHIXvI/AAAAAAAAK4A/OLWjKgK-mO0/s1600-h/DSC_8272%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8272" border="0" alt="DSC_8272" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pQeNgDkwKik/VXbQ5Zq8lhI/AAAAAAAAK4I/vOzbqi8rxEM/DSC_8272_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6RqcwIp-8UE/VXbQ7z5mzlI/AAAAAAAAK4Q/EZ6YzsYSewQ/s1600-h/DSC_8277%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8277" border="0" alt="DSC_8277" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R_WGgUGb3Kc/VXbQ9bAjxPI/AAAAAAAAK4Y/glbaVtEAwyI/DSC_8277_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MVblZiKgRmc/VXbRBbOb1PI/AAAAAAAAK4g/Gnno2J0niN4/s1600-h/DSC_8288%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8288" border="0" alt="DSC_8288" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KASu9doD96k/VXbRCYj_F2I/AAAAAAAAK4o/GOzyMDU4JD8/DSC_8288_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YRPRJ1PXZeM/VXbRGIo2tLI/AAAAAAAAK4w/z1tUDhI5T_8/s1600-h/DSC_8309%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8309" border="0" alt="DSC_8309" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-flo_ZT4ur8U/VXbRHDcCecI/AAAAAAAAK44/X9YwgdBKVh8/DSC_8309_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Zhujiajiao was lovely and we were pleas</font><font face="Comic Sans MS">ed we arrived early – before the hoards of tourists descended by air conditioned shuttle bus. While they were ushered to expensive waterfront restaurants and enjoyed private gondola trips, we did the local water taxi thing (at half the price) and bought our lunch from a street stall. W</font><font face="Comic Sans MS">e had some interesting experiences and didn’t always know what we were eating but it always tasted delicious. We went to the same restaurant each night as the food was exceptional – shared plates piled high with Shanghai noodles and vegetables. We avoided meat. Food was ridiculously cheap and amazingly healthy. Interestingly, we did not see one fat or even overweight Chinese person.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tjC8BkFAH5w/VXbRKVRoUfI/AAAAAAAAK5A/1hBYrK4v9Jk/s1600-h/DSC_8275%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8275" border="0" alt="DSC_8275" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sNzruvf139g/VXbRLCFMFCI/AAAAAAAAK5I/zXQ31iRaNfA/DSC_8275_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hs_mACMk7ik/VXbRPtUgMCI/AAAAAAAAK5Q/ZAF_C4hjHQs/s1600-h/DSC_8233%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8233" border="0" alt="DSC_8233" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nu3KZhRlqaM/VXbRQZWtVGI/AAAAAAAAK5Y/I2DS1ixmrfI/DSC_8233_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-acFH-dryGDU/VXbRSlV7wxI/AAAAAAAAK5g/W2AbD87OYc0/s1600-h/DSC_8328%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8328" border="0" alt="DSC_8328" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wEzucQnyrAQ/VXbRUOoXzWI/AAAAAAAAK5o/LRJasPe2lJ0/DSC_8328_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="398"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-czZg8op0mAE/VXbRXY1-F3I/AAAAAAAAK5w/D7Vy2E93bTg/s1600-h/DSC_8246%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8246" border="0" alt="DSC_8246" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mGnbBNpcCL8/VXbRYkD8WdI/AAAAAAAAK54/JvFZYPf6x4k/DSC_8246_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bfm-42-GIJs/VXbRbsqwlrI/AAAAAAAAK6A/fGM7YePqfiE/s1600-h/IMG_1362%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1362" border="0" alt="IMG_1362" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GuiV2pauD50/VXbRcUYonPI/AAAAAAAAK6E/QOMwEeKxweU/IMG_1362_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wbcRwRzd8O0/VXbRenTOzdI/AAAAAAAAK6Q/ghYioRHzYuI/s1600-h/IMG_1363%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1363" border="0" alt="IMG_1363" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-etbO3e7SXb0/VXbRfQ75ToI/AAAAAAAAK6Y/v30_VqaMIUI/IMG_1363_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PfsumedsWXI/VXbRhoJ0_WI/AAAAAAAAK6g/Oc4KrU0S7NA/s1600-h/DSC_8280%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8280" border="0" alt="DSC_8280" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rSDFpRKFTRw/VXbRioh4U-I/AAAAAAAAK6o/pfGp-PnZ4IU/DSC_8280_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1eW2k1x8ZUs/VXbRmZEyAjI/AAAAAAAAK6w/kfsVvrcNCUo/s1600-h/DSC_8333%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8333" border="0" alt="DSC_8333" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MwWukNwrG2s/VXbRno5SqII/AAAAAAAAK64/VFl7l2wYD88/DSC_8333_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Shanghai has a sleek metro system and after a few days we felt brave enough to try it. After a successful trial run we decided to use it to get to the airport, switching to a high speed bullet train for the final leg. It was pretty exhilarating to reach 300km although a little bizarre to be sitting in such a high tech train as we passed through poverty stricken slums. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P-vCPdSsG8w/VXbRpeV-sDI/AAAAAAAAK7A/-q1el5ONcZg/s1600-h/IMG_1381%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1381" border="0" alt="IMG_1381" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nt3cE85YDPA/VXbRqOBUaQI/AAAAAAAAK7I/zDov-7ebCD4/IMG_1381_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LXxIpayyzvE/VXbRtsiwMbI/AAAAAAAAK7Q/XCDZw-7h0ek/s1600-h/IMG_1390%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1390" border="0" alt="IMG_1390" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4j_yiLdRp1Y/VXbRuv87HXI/AAAAAAAAK7Y/eZEvyMUsVYo/IMG_1390_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We allowed plenty of time for check-in, half anticipating a problem and sure enough there was. “You have overstayed” came the brusque comment from immigration. “Well no, we gave your colleague all the correct documentation and he stamped it incorrectly.” A glare. Hmm…seems one doesn’t argue with Chinese immigration. We were marched to a couple of hard chairs and told to wait. Various officials approached us and no amount of explaining that it was in fact “their” mistake seemed to change the situation. When the woman beside us was fined the equivalent of $2000 for overstaying we began to get a little anxious. An hour later a red faced official emerged with our passports to tell us we were free to go saying, in halting English “our mistake”. Lesson learned – always check passport stamp BEFORE you leave immigration. Things did get better – the Virgin plane was virtually empty so we had four seats each to stretch out in – bliss! </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Will leave you with some interesting translations. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ePFvmHMtvkU/VXbRxUBUpYI/AAAAAAAAK7k/EXLVU3CnwIQ/s1600-h/IMG_1367%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1367" border="0" alt="IMG_1367" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k1x4umMq39g/VXbR1UdjYVI/AAAAAAAAK7s/AQNmuMHHbok/IMG_1367_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CGDx9YUyOXM/VXbR478KGqI/AAAAAAAAK70/cEyOJw6XPBM/s1600-h/IMG_1366%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1366" border="0" alt="IMG_1366" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-asMYi7Vc1Ck/VXbR5yQSQsI/AAAAAAAAK78/JZsARSnnanM/IMG_1366_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3q4kYC9dUlw/VXbR8N8fdgI/AAAAAAAAK8E/ZLjSrxYQlLE/s1600-h/IMG_1391%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1391" border="0" alt="IMG_1391" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dzhpyYWv_-c/VXbR8orkPaI/AAAAAAAAK8M/8ymAvq337dw/IMG_1391_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BuJEGKHHLYE/VXbR-2ST4CI/AAAAAAAAK8U/JhxXm3JCwiI/s1600-h/IMG_1387%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1387" border="0" alt="IMG_1387" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B53aefrx4fc/VXbR_j8iG_I/AAAAAAAAK8Y/ZFbry9RXmgM/IMG_1387_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-68017981864900018332015-06-08T17:01:00.001+01:002015-06-08T17:02:16.651+01:00A marvellous summer in Marlborough<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Amazingly, we’ve now spent six months at home in Marlborough although neither of us can work out where the time has gone. Given we’d been away from New Zealand for 10 years – most of them on a yacht - we knew it wouldn’t be easy to settle into “life on land” so we set ourselves a few projects. We bought and renovated a house and worked in the vineyard. Of course there was much catching up to do with family and friends. We also had a very special wedding – David’s youngest daughter Ping married Adan in Wellington and we sailed Bandit over for the occasion, mooring right in the heart of the city.</font><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5aUtfrLq1tM/VXWvSp5QnSI/AAAAAAAAKx4/7R1hKcDn0ic/s1600-h/DSC_7839%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7839" border="0" alt="DSC_7839" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r5NQKRncsrI/VXWvT5viFAI/AAAAAAAAKyA/BJkb_PwnhWo/DSC_7839_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="213"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kXiIFwqEFeg/VXWvWSGstmI/AAAAAAAAKyI/3rAg7tlebwA/s1600-h/DSC_7793%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7793" border="0" alt="DSC_7793" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HClcvaVOhfA/VXWvXfY8LiI/AAAAAAAAKyQ/S2KUkP8D2E4/DSC_7793_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="217"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">During our time home we had a welcome stream of overseas visitors starting back in November with Alex – a delightful German girl we met way back in the Canary Islands. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">As Christmas approached, Lucie and Taylor from the Czech Republic arrived and we had some great days out on Bandit enjoying plenty of fresh seafood. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bJ3Zl-7N4U0/VXWvaFink8I/AAAAAAAAKyY/v6mHww4SvuY/s1600-h/IMG_11199.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1119" border="0" alt="IMG_1119" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9SJTwBu8onE/VXWvbscuEVI/AAAAAAAAKyg/y7w0DWhVuW4/IMG_1119_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JcnaPfrm8rs/VXW7mgdEtXI/AAAAAAAAKyw/akt04W_2Vd0/s1600-h/IMG_111510.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1115" border="0" alt="IMG_1115" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bMArpm7eq78/VXW7nZecTGI/AAAAAAAAKy4/yr25n020y2M/IMG_1115_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y4iuEjwnC18/VXW7qDtrzOI/AAAAAAAAKzA/uCfAceDSi4s/s1600-h/IMG_112712.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1127" border="0" alt="IMG_1127" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fatcmKI9ZQk/VXW7q-hI6tI/AAAAAAAAKzI/C7KqqWaR_J4/IMG_1127_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Next up were good cruising buddies Chris and Sara from Tulu who we met in the San Blas Islands in Panama. Once again we had some fantastic days out in Bandit and Chris and Sara enjoyed staying put in our cottage in Mills and Ford Rd after a frantic time in the North Island. It was wonderful to have them visit.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d-C_DhFLjhs/VXW7tgYk72I/AAAAAAAAKzQ/QirfIa8pLq4/s1600-h/IMG_11667.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1166" border="0" alt="IMG_1166" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FPX_qXnrUC0/VXW7uV8NSLI/AAAAAAAAKzY/FWp0yAs51Is/IMG_1166_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NARUPP6VMR8/VXW7xwJetUI/AAAAAAAAKzg/XmYDDf-UHpE/s1600-h/IMG_11368.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1136" border="0" alt="IMG_1136" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tPuhNztjrnk/VXW7y7oc79I/AAAAAAAAKzo/-J6rt47LtxE/IMG_1136_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8z7CX6_5VhE/VXW71-MnZ0I/AAAAAAAAKzw/jUTRAqQ61As/s1600-h/IMG_121613.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1216" border="0" alt="IMG_1216" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k8Nx0zieP6c/VXW721C04nI/AAAAAAAAKz4/b6ZQOW03U3g/IMG_1216_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_fvsJINoQeM/VXW75rM6ORI/AAAAAAAAK0A/cgJIoKUkf2s/s1600-h/IMG_12561.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1256" border="0" alt="IMG_1256" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jidrdkbeUQ0/VXW76Vi68vI/AAAAAAAAK0I/n_OhKKYpnxw/IMG_1256_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We also took Charlotte, Colin and grandkids Harry and Edie out several times and had some wonderful days. Sailing in the Marlborough Sounds tends to be very social as lots of our friends have boats or holiday homes so we tended to move from one bay to another, one lunch to another, one happy hour to another! </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">American cruisers Betty and Wayne who we first met in Mexico were next and it was lovely to take them out sailing in Bandit. We had a great walk around the spectacular predator free Blumine Island. Turkish sailors Nadire and Selim from Keyif were passing through Marlborough and they came out for the day as well. We also had a wonderful day out with Tim and Susi, Walter and Brigitte from Switzerland and Penny and Peter from the UK.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kavDXH7u_xc/VXW78PZvB0I/AAAAAAAAK0Q/4fub9tCz4-w/s1600-h/IMG_128321.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1283" border="0" alt="IMG_1283" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GnUreK3-Iqs/VXW79fODQPI/AAAAAAAAK0Y/Ca2Hdmx2lE0/IMG_1283_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our final guests were Tom and Susi from Adina who we first met in the Galapagos. We took them out in Bandit and drove them to Christchurch through the magnificent Molesworth Station as we were flying out to Melbourne. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our Melbourne trip was to catch up with son Sam – great to see him there and in Marlborough when he visited.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q25piEcfu2A/VXW7_SaHZ4I/AAAAAAAAK0g/F0dC_tfpuUA/s1600-h/IMG_12628.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1262" border="0" alt="IMG_1262" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IigCN6NEIOk/VXW8AL8tF_I/AAAAAAAAK0o/0lz7Zw0f_SI/IMG_1262_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="192"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qxeeJziZ6tE/VXW8ChbcgeI/AAAAAAAAK0w/_sPO3Z7LFUU/s1600-h/IMG_120411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1204" border="0" alt="IMG_1204" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FSIiEkcD9sY/VXW8DeelLvI/AAAAAAAAK04/WkgYsJZt3BY/IMG_1204_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3iN4566l7F0/VXW8FhaIA-I/AAAAAAAAK1A/n0Jg5br4TNs/s1600-h/IMG_12788.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1278" border="0" alt="IMG_1278" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SEPsAhOtWUc/VXW8G3RJOLI/AAAAAAAAK1I/I1EXf_tjbBA/IMG_1278_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">On Easter Monday our grapes were harvested and to see them picked and safely in the tanks at Whitehaven was fantastic. Easter was also the Omaka Airshow and we went along on Friday for a fantastic day and evening of wonderful flying action. David even managed to book himself a flight in the Spitfire – lucky man! On Anzac Day he got lucky again and flew to Nelson in Bill Reid’s Avro Anson!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OgCnYtdIiqM/VXW8JVLMFdI/AAAAAAAAK1Q/yWsd9IosOjs/s1600-h/IMG_131212.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1312" border="0" alt="IMG_1312" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c3K7SurvP60/VXW8Ko5ZGSI/AAAAAAAAK1Y/R9GS1H_pYG8/IMG_1312_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="510" height="374"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">With the harvest over we decided to take a few days off to head south and visit family and friends. It gave David the chance for some reminiscing as we drove past his old farm Irishman Creek and also visited Mt Cook, which he climbed in 1987.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UsyfT1IzoXo/VXW8Mq5XScI/AAAAAAAAK1g/O4APnumzCPg/s1600-h/IMG_134312.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1343" border="0" alt="IMG_1343" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3geHEh5jQzM/VXW8NcBs15I/AAAAAAAAK1o/m15gwxqbkTk/IMG_1343_thumb22.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="218"></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63VmLs-iYZw/VXW8PjvNc3I/AAAAAAAAK1w/Yor3wRZ1aqQ/s1600-h/IMG_13339.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1333" border="0" alt="IMG_1333" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AQTYZ_fs-kU/VXW8QD_v72I/AAAAAAAAK14/R0jgpr4jhdA/IMG_1333_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="224"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-98krl9onw_0/VXW8Rzh6ijI/AAAAAAAAK2A/utuRB_eV__M/s1600-h/DSC_813213.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_8132" border="0" alt="DSC_8132" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QQ-0v4Sk-WQ/VXW8Si9qhKI/AAAAAAAAK2I/1lLZYHoOP3c/DSC_8132_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="494" height="213"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">House renovated, grapes harvested, garden tidied it seemed there wasn’t a lot more for us to do in Marlborough…and with the leaves starting to turn, the mornings and evenings cooling down, it seemed the time had come to head away. The UK was beckoning! So off we headed, driving to Christchurch, flying to Wellington and driving up to Auckland. A lovely way to end our time in NZ.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3lxnhEL98ZM/VXW8VAdoSvI/AAAAAAAAK2Q/Mqqhvl7vKbQ/s1600-h/IMG_136114.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1361" border="0" alt="IMG_1361" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ARbPzhAXGYM/VXW8WZaUKdI/AAAAAAAAK2Y/qDQR71dEVhM/IMG_1361_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-58735070071585728682014-12-04T21:38:00.001+00:002014-12-04T21:41:04.597+00:00A land based life<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our feet have hardly touched the ground since we arrived home – life has been a whirlwind of social events, gardening, unpacking and trying to settle into a land based life. Before we arrived home in mid November, we had every intention of living on Bandit. But our first two nights in the Sounds changed that – it was so cold and windy and our tropical toned, tanned and tuned bodies simply couldn’t handle it. So into our vineyard cottage with plenty of heaters and blankets!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DwLuDENemdA/VIDT4_b_A9I/AAAAAAAAKtU/aK5hX-22uGU/s1600-h/IMG_738416.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_7384" border="0" alt="IMG_7384" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OX3v1AJvQ4k/VIDT5l68cbI/AAAAAAAAKtc/B6LHZvYaPE0/IMG_7384_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="442"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Pf1tAxzCYPg/VIDT6eYuW3I/AAAAAAAAKtk/47qPvH8bjV8/s1600-h/DSC_76577.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7657" border="0" alt="DSC_7657" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QbXDW0P4C24/VIDT7I4PO9I/AAAAAAAAKts/YjFJdI5c51E/DSC_7657_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="135"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MSYi6oo6hcg/VIDT73QN8WI/AAAAAAAAKt0/HQU2OfFtCko/s1600-h/DSC_763310.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7633" border="0" alt="DSC_7633" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KrEHsAJgoag/VIDT85yGHpI/AAAAAAAAKt8/AdrOkB6S1Tg/DSC_7633_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our arrival into Queen Charlotte Sound was marked with blustery winds up to 40 knots, low cloud and mist and rain. But the next day dawned fine and it was wonderful to have our good friends Alastair and Dinny Shanks on their lovely yacht Skara Brae come out to meet us. Skara Brae was full of friends and family and we had a lovely day on a mooring in Kumatoto Bay drinking bubbly, eating lunch and having a great catch up. Well wrapped up in winter clothes I might add.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qYqBQPFrv7Y/VIDT9t8X2CI/AAAAAAAAKuE/sU05H0HuhX4/s1600-h/DSC_76673.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7667" border="0" alt="DSC_7667" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0auvGSX13ok/VIDT-du_QaI/AAAAAAAAKuM/UJcIMM1ozn4/DSC_7667_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XCPSBWq78lY/VIDT_O7iacI/AAAAAAAAKuU/CU-OoHseo3U/s1600-h/DSC_76538.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7653" border="0" alt="DSC_7653" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MDGXLt6pRbw/VIDUAPkHu3I/AAAAAAAAKuc/ZleFZKBJ97k/DSC_7653_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C41sXQRH8pE/VIDUA7SaHvI/AAAAAAAAKuk/cZ1KmcKca5E/s1600-h/DSC_766315.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7663" border="0" alt="DSC_7663" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0hDsaUCwRDQ/VIDUBu0vJtI/AAAAAAAAKus/wVSVqrE8BPM/DSC_7663_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="507" height="337"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">All too soon the euphoria of arriving home had faded and we were brought down to earth with a bump – time to fill in the days by gardening, mowing lawns and working in the vineyard. Oh and taking a mountain of stuff off Bandit accumulated during our eight years of cruising (Turkish rugs, Moroccan tagines, Sardinian platters, Cuban cigars, rum etc). We’ve also had plenty of catch ups with friends and family. The skipper turned 60 and, as it marked a bit of a milestone we had two celebrations – a family lunch in Nelson and then a get together with about 50 close friends in Blenheim. These things have helped keep us busy and not think too much about cruising. We’re hoping the weather will warm up soon and let us get out in the Sounds. Problem is, we’ve become so used to the warmth that going out in anything less than tropical temperatures just does not appeal!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pKoqixmVuDU/VIDUCFbVlvI/AAAAAAAAKu0/QLhLJ8fohOA/s1600-h/DSC_772312.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7723" border="0" alt="DSC_7723" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QcOBPWl634Y/VIDUDTNklhI/AAAAAAAAKu8/NbiATbGGsuA/DSC_7723_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f-C9wQ5AeKY/VIDUEPMZXoI/AAAAAAAAKvE/AKs0308W2D4/s1600-h/DSC_773410.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7734" border="0" alt="DSC_7734" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SngDo-L0B9w/VIDUFIH0ayI/AAAAAAAAKvM/I6CpAnC2U34/DSC_7734_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X0itDUQlBeM/VIDUGC-p7qI/AAAAAAAAKvU/uE-G39_h4C4/s1600-h/DSC_774612.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7746" border="0" alt="DSC_7746" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F28ari3Nzjs/VIDUHOlbBHI/AAAAAAAAKvc/3dR4rv65UyM/DSC_7746_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sAW8eF5pvJk/VIDUH8gYxqI/AAAAAAAAKvk/DQPssqO2-xA/s1600-h/DSC_774910.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7749" border="0" alt="DSC_7749" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IaeBJFYTnmI/VIDUIyAdYmI/AAAAAAAAKvs/xpYF7g-mayM/DSC_7749_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="199"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bI_03a0iXfg/VIDUJ2gaoOI/AAAAAAAAKv0/YgIKF0SyxJ0/s1600-h/DSC_771411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7714" border="0" alt="DSC_7714" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0UCdk-vpQp8/VIDULeejjoI/AAAAAAAAKv4/bklebtvICAI/DSC_7714_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="191"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tK6e6W5xvew/VIDUMY13iJI/AAAAAAAAKwE/Zu6KAJOxB3A/s1600-h/DSC_77018.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7701" border="0" alt="DSC_7701" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wpq3lndmbKU/VIDUNHGXphI/AAAAAAAAKwM/rwb6w1Vnvog/DSC_7701_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-48499455462669614852014-10-22T06:08:00.001+01:002014-10-22T06:08:24.201+01:00The home run<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We always knew the most challenging part of our eight year Bandit adventure would be the last leg down to New Zealand. Our country’s offshore waters have a fearsome reputation amongst sailors – this is almost the roaring 40s after all. And, as expected, the reputation was justified. After a (mostly) wonderful passage from Tonga, via Minerva Reef, we hit a particularly nasty southerly system off Northland. For 24 hours we had winds up to 50knots, lumpy seas and, despite being well reefed down, tore our mainsail and bimini. We also had heavy rain hence full wet weather gear was worn for the first time – not the best welcome to New Zealand for Team Bandit!.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qpexxpvYiQQ/VEc6QuZzryI/AAAAAAAAKpM/XgtEYO3e_dc/s1600-h/DSC_7451%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7451" border="0" alt="DSC_7451" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-01ZhP9uNeJ0/VEc6SR5yOHI/AAAAAAAAKpU/K9HnSJNQ6mY/DSC_7451_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="281"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Mjhb8dQi45Y/VEc6WgH2sPI/AAAAAAAAKpc/kn0_xh-BHlA/s1600-h/DSC_74437.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7443" border="0" alt="DSC_7443" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-28WJe3f5eUY/VEc6YnnndkI/AAAAAAAAKpk/SXrDFPP3DLM/DSC_7443_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r-paNPgxdNU/VEc6be4GgdI/AAAAAAAAKps/CRw1NYCOR7k/s1600-h/DSC_7440%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7440" border="0" alt="DSC_7440" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5stQEB47hq8/VEc6fqrDDNI/AAAAAAAAKp0/mQ_ZN76TufI/DSC_7440_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T4nSq7VggG0/VEc6jEhhRiI/AAAAAAAAKp8/GF7BaM8e280/s1600-h/sleep%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="sleep" border="0" alt="sleep" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PigLAKEdJio/VEc6knOvGII/AAAAAAAAKqE/QH5yZFIFSxo/sleep_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="352"></a></p> <p> <font face="Comic Sans MS">It was wonderful having good friend and seasoned sailor Alastair Shanks on board for this leg. It made night watches a breeze and Alastair’s high spirits when conditions became trying was infectious. But of course it wasn’t all rough and tumble; for six days we had magical conditions with light winds and flat seas. Bandit trickled along under spinnaker while the boys played chess, we all enjoyed lunch at the cockpit table and caught fish – serious fish. Our best haul was a 30kg plus yellow fin tuna.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pi3Oui_FSN0/VEc6pxToDgI/AAAAAAAAKqM/gm0f0d6Z0xs/s1600-h/DSC_7407.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7407" border="0" alt="DSC_7407" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v8kVxLJ5bYU/VEc6sDNJ1uI/AAAAAAAAKqU/TgpuWZrERZo/DSC_7407_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DKggRDpUSSg/VEc6wYqHvRI/AAAAAAAAKqc/T37WnGtV-NY/s1600-h/DSC_74353.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7435" border="0" alt="DSC_7435" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XLNM8bCZBRI/VEc6ycfi1DI/AAAAAAAAKqk/2DwLlYmXWls/DSC_7435_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nbXINyp_3hI/VEc62kLb11I/AAAAAAAAKqs/2TP_Bbgz1_w/s1600-h/DSC_742912.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7429" border="0" alt="DSC_7429" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-efPeHkFV_d0/VEc66uVo69I/AAAAAAAAKq0/pozqepgKMYw/DSC_7429_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="441"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">Leaving Tonga was tinged with sadness as it meant, for now anyway, the end of our nomadic cruising lifestyle. Since buying Bandit in Gibraltar in 2005 we’ve cruised more than 40,000miles, visited 29 countries and sailed across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. We’ve made lifelong friends in the cruising community and learned so much from the pool of knowledge that exists therein. Many of our land based friends have been able to join us and share in our fantastic lifestyle as we’ve sailed half way around the world. Many others have followed our adventures on our various blogs and it gives us a huge thrill to know people are living vicariously through us. A big thank you to all our blog followers – you know who you are.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UBoFrc-wsIs/VEc7AUqnDGI/AAAAAAAAKq8/aMfU7r8AWdM/s1600-h/DSC_5263%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5263" border="0" alt="DSC_5263" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MeXKBL6x50w/VEc7CUwhe1I/AAAAAAAAKrE/loVJw1ddNts/DSC_5263_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="502" height="340"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">So – what next? Well first up there was a bit of housekeeping to attend to. David and I have been together 15 years, engaged for four…and the time seemed right to formalise it all in the Bay of Islands. Our sailing friends Ross and Jo Blackman live in Russell, have a beautifully renovated deconsecrated church on their olive grove, former cruiser Ida Birch is a marriage celebrant in the Bay of Islands and well……let’s just let the photos do the talking.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-haa3c6vruEg/VEc7F5wcYlI/AAAAAAAAKrM/DjBYojytBDM/s1600-h/Morgan-and-Blackman9.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Morgan and Blackman" border="0" alt="Morgan and Blackman" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WlGFjCiGsXM/VEc7JB7A4KI/AAAAAAAAKrU/mBhjB2vUTEQ/Morgan-and-Blackman_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3rSGgi-c21I/VEc7LadjOcI/AAAAAAAAKrc/MINcpsZzMc8/s1600-h/Portrait%25255B3%25255D.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Portrait" border="0" alt="Portrait" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Wthm6qGMqu4/VEc7Nrb_2AI/AAAAAAAAKrk/U_CDVf3BeoU/Portrait_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="279"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--zrjTYGVIoM/VEc7P2sCXgI/AAAAAAAAKrs/eqQPPWf-71g/s1600-h/5a7.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="5a" border="0" alt="5a" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-h8QDF3560mE/VEc7R7_6FcI/AAAAAAAAKr0/V2qOjIh8RN0/5a_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="279"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OFUsZ6SDX4I/VEc7WcS--KI/AAAAAAAAKr8/rl0e4BYf2pQ/s1600-h/19.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="1" border="0" alt="1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BgmMKnHfr28/VEc7YMtG1PI/AAAAAAAAKsE/BZYspmxeGLc/1_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="160"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ceOE9xA75RE/VEc7bhyU4JI/AAAAAAAAKsM/pmOA3tAR2_Y/s1600-h/DSC_74588.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7458" border="0" alt="DSC_7458" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-W5-5w-M0IMA/VEc7ee5EDUI/AAAAAAAAKsU/iKi9yqOCZgw/DSC_7458_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hwj557a-RrY/VEc7g1T8DhI/AAAAAAAAKsc/bjo3-aH9O3M/s1600-h/DSC_7462%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7462" border="0" alt="DSC_7462" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_i0deF_qv_k/VEc7hxhwMNI/AAAAAAAAKsk/U9HlNUc2OJM/DSC_7462_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AuMNZzV_pUk/VEc7kg43LAI/AAAAAAAAKss/IUDYDjrcJkk/s1600-h/DSC_7466%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7466" border="0" alt="DSC_7466" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ch81ZiZPIso/VEc7nrt2OfI/AAAAAAAAKs0/0UnUeT7btao/DSC_7466_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-saaU1d3Q_eU/VEc7ujb5UrI/AAAAAAAAKs8/WguDac-DTac/s1600-h/DSC_7519%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7519" border="0" alt="DSC_7519" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bczhPGYmVZ8/VEc7wZ7usSI/AAAAAAAAKtE/X-04kbAp-Zw/DSC_7519_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It was a memorable, happy, funny and wonderful day that we will never forget. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">But – back to reality. What is next for Team Bandit? </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Hmm…a land based life appeals but neither of us plans to get too serious about settling down just yet. It’s a big wide world out there and we find that the more places we visit the more we realise there is to see. We’ll spend the summer enjoying the Marlborough Sounds on Bandit but as the leaves start to change colour we know will start to get twitchy. Watch this space!</font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-78386361033164717002014-10-01T04:02:00.001+01:002014-10-01T04:03:17.678+01:00The heavenly Ha’apais<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Many cruising yachts miss the Tongan Ha’apai group of islands and what a shame that is. They are an idyllic South Pacific paradise and one of the nicest cruising rounds we’ve visited in 10 years of sailing. Our time there was spent visiting deserted anchorages and local villages, meeting friendly islanders and snorkelling in crystal clear water. Tonga has been a fantastic wind down time for us after the long Pacific crossing and given us time to take stock before the final leg down to New Zealand…we hope to be underway tomorrow.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ymkeo4MAkjQ/VCttVAXCEMI/AAAAAAAAKi0/mc3-IJdk7Lc/s1600-h/DSC_7333%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7333" border="0" alt="DSC_7333" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O3_Ao0b6El4/VCttWk64qnI/AAAAAAAAKi8/FWeIdt0XXbc/DSC_7333_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="387"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The Ha’apai group is notorious for its shallow ground, numerous reefs and coral heads used to be called the Dangerous Isles for that reason. It deserves its reputation and navigating here certainly had its challenges. While our charts were mostly accurate, there were uncharted areas so we had to keep a good lookout. Given the stunning water clarity, eyeball navigation was straightforward as you can see in the photo above..the coral is clearly obvious.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AQn8nas4Z3k/VCttYGVEjkI/AAAAAAAAKjE/PCaKPhSTQGE/s1600-h/DSC_7254.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7254" border="0" alt="DSC_7254" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5ne8_tBQTQU/VCttZ6UN0tI/AAAAAAAAKjM/OM0AkCR5Kd0/DSC_7254_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="498" height="335"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UclF8Ex8Tak/VCttbSfdo2I/AAAAAAAAKjU/EnN-sYjH6L0/s1600-h/DSC_72429.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7242" border="0" alt="DSC_7242" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zfnBnPcLyjI/VCttcmWC1kI/AAAAAAAAKjc/gXCO1cceap4/DSC_7242_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X47lQbr9_RE/VCttevyv7OI/AAAAAAAAKjk/geZRl33hS7E/s1600-h/DSC_727411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7274" border="0" alt="DSC_7274" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lg8xO54ztO8/VCttgaicFXI/AAAAAAAAKjs/WDs8LLEmqU4/DSC_7274_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The Ha’apais are low lying therefore offer little protection from anything other than prevailing trade winds so we kept a wary eye on the weather. Highlights were yet more close encounters with whales - we often had to alter course to dodge them – and some interesting expeditions to local villages to trade for fruit. The locals are incredibly shy and often hide from foreigners as they are not confident with their language skills. We had to be persistent but it paid off and we met up with some lovely islanders.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W7nthpDDohg/VCttiHdSKjI/AAAAAAAAKj0/9m7wFmNXdmk/s1600-h/DSC_72839.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7283" border="0" alt="DSC_7283" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5_WO1qFexVY/VCttjlGMdXI/AAAAAAAAKj8/06--mj95R8k/DSC_7283_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RQuMmzUplpc/VCttk-gyXYI/AAAAAAAAKkE/EfMWuGP7eBk/s1600-h/DSC_730710.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7307" border="0" alt="DSC_7307" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SMC5dulhQys/VCttozGzxWI/AAAAAAAAKkM/F7mW-ueYbsE/DSC_7307_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="332"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PRGiUhliAAs/VCttr6yVPII/AAAAAAAAKkU/-bQ-iSNKnuY/s1600-h/DSC_738316.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7383" border="0" alt="DSC_7383" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wlibVJHY5Kk/VCtttS-AnpI/AAAAAAAAKkc/6DJgXeLoWuM/DSC_7383_thumb21.jpg?imgmax=800" width="246" height="325"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-guDvBkr0PYM/VCttvE0ojDI/AAAAAAAAKkk/FsjBfV4hfvQ/s1600-h/DSC_70795.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7079" border="0" alt="DSC_7079" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cZRVN_EJ6iA/VCttxEWuFxI/AAAAAAAAKks/npvk8v8J6Rg/DSC_7079_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="211"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZnmdC8TRl5Y/VCttzAHMd_I/AAAAAAAAKk0/IlV5pBD9C7Y/s1600-h/DSC_729113.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7291" border="0" alt="DSC_7291" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KvKJBI2RriA/VCtt06ffazI/AAAAAAAAKk8/mjogUpkz9WU/DSC_7291_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="197"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our Timaru friends Gerald and Susie Morton flew to Pangai in the Ha’apai group to join us for a few days. In advance we ordered lots of sunshine, light winds and plenty of whale encounters. The weather Gods duly obliged and we had hot cloudless days. The whale encounters didn’t get any better than in stunning Nukupule when Susie and Gerald woke one morning to the sound of whales. They raced on deck to see two right beside Bandit…just checking us out.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MgcKLRKcqEY/VCtt2l-8GgI/AAAAAAAAKlE/EjCZHlZ8LGY/s1600-h/DSC_734610.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7346" border="0" alt="DSC_7346" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PZ_SI0OkuH4/VCtt4dnVETI/AAAAAAAAKlM/PmzduZ_hd38/DSC_7346_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Nukupule was a magic spot. We were the only boat in sight and the snorkelling was the best we’d had in a long time on pristine colourful coral with lots of fish. The tiny palm tree clad island was ringed with a beautiful white sandy beach and it was fantastic to be able to share this piece of paradise with good friends.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4SrbE3ZkFGE/VCtt55rLheI/AAAAAAAAKlU/bTuhKr3NUwc/s1600-h/DSC_73539.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7353" border="0" alt="DSC_7353" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nqClETnOHWU/VCtt7LnJVxI/AAAAAAAAKlc/Xb4WMZWZ8gQ/DSC_7353_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="238"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bKGMGJgQqvw/VCtt8rfz9UI/AAAAAAAAKlk/g4Zcf70IoK4/s1600-h/DSC_735611.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7356" border="0" alt="DSC_7356" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sFjzjcELO8I/VCtt954xtbI/AAAAAAAAKls/uSyMklSEB1A/DSC_7356_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="246" height="222"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ACcxr-jr8ZE/VCtt_g746hI/AAAAAAAAKl0/uY7a3Z-hqiA/s1600-h/DSC_73524.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7352" border="0" alt="DSC_7352" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-btJf4HNh91A/VCtuBClBodI/AAAAAAAAKl8/E_ozXrYvElQ/DSC_7352_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-maoPnXWZN2c/VCtuC8qhQgI/AAAAAAAAKmE/wc_ePv1U9U4/s1600-h/DSC_73164.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7316" border="0" alt="DSC_7316" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vc2vKZAvO_0/VCtuEBG8_CI/AAAAAAAAKmM/Ghugli828DM/DSC_7316_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fzXRlcxnXvM/VCtuGI0mq7I/AAAAAAAAKmU/5uYciujZ1pc/s1600-h/DSC_7311%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7311" border="0" alt="DSC_7311" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jex40p2Zn0s/VCtuHmoBAdI/AAAAAAAAKmc/Of-soe7S3r4/DSC_7311_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sqxcbHzeaf0/VCtuJMsuOvI/AAAAAAAAKmk/h3xTTkfBN74/s1600-h/DSC_73634.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7363" border="0" alt="DSC_7363" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sbLpnqWG9Uc/VCtuL6TNMKI/AAAAAAAAKms/8UVb1JEwjY8/DSC_7363_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="533"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BmrJKjw_-Fw/VCtuOYituSI/AAAAAAAAKm0/KWulci9pglM/s1600-h/DSC_73665.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7366" border="0" alt="DSC_7366" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OQDhDaFDlDQ/VCtuQUOoj6I/AAAAAAAAKm8/fDv_4D3XMR0/DSC_7366_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="181"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FHkSfNj1jPk/VCtuSWDsZkI/AAAAAAAAKnE/DZk4-hKRbN4/s1600-h/DSC_7369%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7369" border="0" alt="DSC_7369" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MgGixNWTgEA/VCtuUByrBEI/AAAAAAAAKnM/0seSRpf01Ls/DSC_7369_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="179"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">After Gerald and Susie left we worked our way down the Ha’apai chain stopping at Ha’efeva, O’ua and Nomuka and then Pangiamotu, off Nuku’alofa. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">We’d heard negative reports about Nuku’alofa but couldn’t understand why. The provisioning was fantastic, we found a wonderful coffee shop (flat whites – joy of joys!), a great bar for yachties 200m from our anchorage (Big Mama’s) and, best of all, fast internet on the boat. What’s not to like?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ku5SshY_lVM/VCtuXdnv7cI/AAAAAAAAKnU/Lu_2KHCSWtU/s1600-h/DSC_73923.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7392" border="0" alt="DSC_7392" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Huch7U-dda0/VCtuZcaMx4I/AAAAAAAAKnc/imXz1OrQt3g/DSC_7392_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nQ-G08mzwxQ/VCtubAnxD4I/AAAAAAAAKnk/dll4RYvk8y4/s1600-h/DSC_73944.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7394" border="0" alt="DSC_7394" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7kRYRBszE3s/VCtuciL3yDI/AAAAAAAAKns/TlH3LZYqAyk/DSC_7394_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8ycLqJjyZ5I/VCtueVoZrdI/AAAAAAAAKn0/8jKxB3aE6CM/s1600-h/DSC_73953.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7395" border="0" alt="DSC_7395" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8Mi31cSsa1o/VCtugGSvd6I/AAAAAAAAKn8/HJm2SWlwH6s/DSC_7395_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-05Jbb4Ha85o/VCtuhobH61I/AAAAAAAAKoE/aYn9AKYapYM/s1600-h/DSC_73964.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7396" border="0" alt="DSC_7396" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9jgU4grB7R0/VCtujY9OFeI/AAAAAAAAKoM/gqy0l9pw-3A/DSC_7396_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our English friends Tom and Susie from Adina were anchored beside us so there was some serious socialising to do before they headed for Fiji. We had several meals on Adina, drinks ashore and dinner on Bandit – phew! As always, it was a farewell tinged with sadness. The camaraderie amongst the cruising community is something we will miss enormously. The day before they left we went on Adina to the boat harbour dock while they fuelled up. Obtaining duty free fuel here is an exercise in patience and tenacity. The fuel comes in drums which have to be pumped – fine until the pump stops working. Kiwi ingenuity soon had a siphoning system in place and Adina’s tanks full.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lfOZ-uhzQwc/VCtuk4rdPvI/AAAAAAAAKoU/Wcw2EKWJ-kY/s1600-h/IMG_1037%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1037" border="0" alt="IMG_1037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XF5zYqcurjQ/VCtumcNpi0I/AAAAAAAAKoc/65ehSn_BhXk/IMG_1037_thumb%25255B25%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="239" height="209"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1mIBWYHFBW8/VCtuoIprKYI/AAAAAAAAKok/e5TjrebaG6I/s1600-h/IMG_1034%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1034" border="0" alt="IMG_1034" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dw12bcjunRk/VCtuqQd8FoI/AAAAAAAAKos/dvYMnJUNcLU/IMG_1034_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="223"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wfIFo4IlcI4/VCturxLmzhI/AAAAAAAAKo0/CtpICSDmJw0/s1600-h/IMG_1041%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1041" border="0" alt="IMG_1041" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UTsO42QxeZg/VCtutmt3aPI/AAAAAAAAKo8/g6f34ScdXmo/IMG_1041_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Seasoned sailor and good Marlborough friend Alastair Shanks flew into Nuku’alofa yesterday to do the 1000 mile leg down to Opua with us. It will be fantastic to have someone of Alastair’s experience on board. We hope to be in Opua mid October (all going well)</font><font face="Comic Sans MS">. You can check our daily progress on our other blog – <a href="http://www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit">www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit</a> or email us at <a href="mailto:yachtbandit@mailasail.com">yachtbandit@mailasail.com</a> – but please, no attachments as email comes through a satellite phone.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> </p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-76995669148991907122014-09-26T03:34:00.001+01:002014-09-26T03:35:57.244+01:00Tantalising Tonga<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Life in Tonga is fairly relaxed; it didn’t take us long to figure that out. One morning we headed to the market in Neiafu, Vava’u, at 7am hoping for fresh produce but it wasn’t to be – hardly anyone was there. Tongans are not early risers it seems. We went back at lunchtime and while the fruit and vegetables were all on display, there weren’t too many vendors and those who were there were snoozing. So, realising we were on Tongan Time, we slowed down too!</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-N7QI9I-bomo/VCTQDL6CuAI/AAAAAAAAKfs/L5kHNKn3kn8/s1600-h/DSC_72125.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7212" border="0" alt="DSC_7212" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EjAWVcQJOqg/VCTQEqL6rbI/AAAAAAAAKf0/GqcVLvzjRYQ/DSC_7212_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="359"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v74MWyEWf6g/VCTQGhQogwI/AAAAAAAAKf8/tBOjbm_wfBo/s1600-h/DSC_72133.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7213" border="0" alt="DSC_7213" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vSl782nAxNY/VCTQIuX2FfI/AAAAAAAAKgE/cWP_9xc1I0k/DSC_7213_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EW-Ryg4jqIg/VCTQKWPGgeI/AAAAAAAAKgM/aKgZt8GasYw/s1600-h/DSC_72275.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7227" border="0" alt="DSC_7227" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LkUh0wvNiwA/VCTQMJXDwJI/AAAAAAAAKgU/BOPXsT5q7Dc/DSC_7227_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="244"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We explored the town of Neiafu and its surrounds on foot and by bicycle – our last rides on our trusty folding bikes. There was no room for them for the final leg to New Zealand and no need for them once we are home so we sold them. It was sad to see them go as we’ve covered many hundreds of miles on them in dozens of countries but they both went to good homes. The Bandit garage (the twin cabin) has now resumed its function as a twin cabin… we plan to use it on the trip home as it’s the most comfortable place to sleep.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fkbOCrhNc4Y/VCTQNWH5uVI/AAAAAAAAKgc/83Z3GGMlIVI/s1600-h/DSC_72221.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7222" border="0" alt="DSC_7222" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dPZO1WkZzOE/VCTQOgu2JAI/AAAAAAAAKgk/PIBoZeEz3TA/DSC_7222_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="275"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3EEPp9ExXoc/VCTQQPtFT0I/AAAAAAAAKgs/QTtrPVUVGuk/s1600-h/DSC_723514.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7235" border="0" alt="DSC_7235" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Zw1Mn8qtzq8/VCTQRh34OjI/AAAAAAAAKg0/wo4uI5YWAeY/DSC_7235_thumb19.jpg?imgmax=800" width="247" height="264"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">We loved our time in the Vava’u islands. It was a great catch up time as cruisers we’d met as far away as Lanzarote sailed into Tonga. There were many wonderful happy hour get togethers and pot luck dinners on the beach. Highlight was meeting up with fellow Marlborough sailors Pete McLean and Richard Batchelor. Pete bought Jungle in the UK and we first met up in Olbia in Sardinia in 2010 and again the following year in Corsica. Sharing an anchorage in the Vava’u islands on a perfect day was an unexpected bonus.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jSQSk6Kp8gw/VCTQTF_kLEI/AAAAAAAAKg8/lVAuajmPAfE/s1600-h/DSC_71714.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7171" border="0" alt="DSC_7171" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AA-blpH2UqI/VCTQUWbXyoI/AAAAAAAAKhE/gygyPtirp78/DSC_7171_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS">The best thing about the Vava’u group is the distances are all short – only an hour or so between anchorages. We’ve had some lovely walks ashore with the outer islands offering great views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve also continued to have some wonderful whale experiences seeing them up close most days. Not a lot more to say about this wonderful piece of Pacific paradise so will let the pictures do the talking.</font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7W9aMrASyIc/VCTQXNa3jKI/AAAAAAAAKhM/VL1H5Yg70YE/s1600-h/DSC_71268.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7126" border="0" alt="DSC_7126" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KmYTxNJJ8xI/VCTQYWf6S2I/AAAAAAAAKhU/NXaYbpfX1_M/DSC_7126_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C-fTk7Hk_Lg/VCTQaJU8JeI/AAAAAAAAKhc/r0xTZfdY5Us/s1600-h/DSC_7179.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7179" border="0" alt="DSC_7179" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3syz1YmvYz0/VCTQbS7QIVI/AAAAAAAAKhk/ZagbxrRrf24/DSC_7179_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Hra2tcgmlLU/VCTQc1BGKfI/AAAAAAAAKhs/cmqyi_PJ86w/s1600-h/DSC_71818.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7181" border="0" alt="DSC_7181" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-leHuM51x0to/VCTQeOWUXHI/AAAAAAAAKh0/aFL4r3ZsZYc/DSC_7181_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wsFJL8mkynw/VCTQfZYWFZI/AAAAAAAAKh8/rICyArjvRts/s1600-h/DSC_71867.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7186" border="0" alt="DSC_7186" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vM-FF-1uveo/VCTQgpHL3jI/AAAAAAAAKiE/izc_Hx16-Fc/DSC_7186_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MADsgmmXMKc/VCTQjQpS0wI/AAAAAAAAKiM/TTEID-jgWZE/s1600-h/DSC_71424.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7142" border="0" alt="DSC_7142" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vQ_lze8kk8I/VCTQklB94AI/AAAAAAAAKiU/IruQSfakgRc/DSC_7142_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-03WlvQH7RGI/VCTQnOSikxI/AAAAAAAAKic/h5lHawEubpw/s1600-h/DSC_72073.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7207" border="0" alt="DSC_7207" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WbLFcPp9GXA/VCTQo_SZ0AI/AAAAAAAAKik/Rwdsp3Lt36k/DSC_7207_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-62268840216137432512014-09-03T23:49:00.001+01:002014-09-03T23:51:52.318+01:00Hanging with the whales in Vava’u<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Arriving in the Vava’u group of islands in northern Tonga was very special. We’re now only 1000miles from home and this is the last country we plan to visit on what has been a wonderful eight year Bandit adventure. And it seems as if we’ve picked yet another piece of paradise to spend our last few weeks in.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4fr7GJ3YHsM/VAeY6qjeTUI/AAAAAAAAKZY/NHiNT_K8umQ/s1600-h/DSC_708311.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7083" border="0" alt="DSC_7083" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S0-iCswhMb8/VAeY-YqSOjI/AAAAAAAAKZg/CsAU_fclWws/DSC_7083_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">Check in was a breeze with quietly spoken and polite officials. The sleepy village of Neiafu was a sheer delight to visit with its New Zealand style cafes (great flat whites) and fantastic fruit and vege market. It was the first time we’d seen such good veges since Galapagos. Many of the locals (both men and women) wear the traditional dress of ta’ovala – a mat made from finely woven pandanus leaf mat. The mat is tied around the waist over a long black vala (skirt) and looks incredibly stiff, prickly and uncomfortable but locals assured us they soften with age. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hi1jDQQaPxE/VAeZBrWQSOI/AAAAAAAAKZo/45Loy9FoFlg/s1600-h/IMG_09992.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0999" border="0" alt="IMG_0999" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j0YowXcsK8s/VAeZD9iHvjI/AAAAAAAAKZw/ksPoI9lUIEM/IMG_0999_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EioHSCP3crc/VAeZHNQ5hLI/AAAAAAAAKZ4/dKDahfTW-kA/s1600-h/IMG_10035.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1003" border="0" alt="IMG_1003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hKxnsDH0QA8/VAeZJx_iRLI/AAAAAAAAKaA/br06LIt3G-M/IMG_1003_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QDx_Qp-ZKsE/VAeZOYNORxI/AAAAAAAAKaI/Hcfu0XXIfQw/s1600-h/IMG_099612.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0996" border="0" alt="IMG_0996" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t5Bh5wIS-rA/VAeZVHwS0uI/AAAAAAAAKaQ/lRrBWggnqCw/IMG_0996_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="321"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We spent three days in Neiafu, enjoying village life and catching up with internet, doing laundry, provisioning and watching rugby on tv – a bonus. Then we headed to nearby Port Maurelle - a stunning anchorage with sandy white beaches and clear water. Fellow cruisers had organised a pot luck dinner on the beach – in fact we ended up having three pot lucks on the beach here. We also enjoyed walks to the local villages and chatting to the locals. It’s been an incredibly social time here in Vava’u as fellow cruisers arrive here from all over the Pacific. We’ve met up with old friends, made new friends and met many of those who’d previously just been a “voice” on our Isabella or Bora Bora radio nets.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9_xkklQPXpw/VAeZbs6h9TI/AAAAAAAAKaY/9e5yp6LKtg4/s1600-h/DSC_707713.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7077" border="0" alt="DSC_7077" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6eteL_X2F6w/VAeZizMhRQI/AAAAAAAAKag/1nTDkkfpRbE/DSC_7077_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RpxvKxn816I/VAeZmy8oU7I/AAAAAAAAKao/IZ3NlqfXt0g/s1600-h/DSC_69642.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6964" border="0" alt="DSC_6964" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mLgcP7qu4m4/VAeZrEl-NbI/AAAAAAAAKaw/S_ODtoLsqBE/DSC_6964_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" height="204"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ewd-SOdf1DA/VAeZvehP7nI/AAAAAAAAKa4/vSsbt92QOh4/s1600-h/DSC_69544.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6954" border="0" alt="DSC_6954" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IjglmwbVu9o/VAeZyoFMjnI/AAAAAAAAKbA/LqfjntDSgN8/DSC_6954_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="186"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LYyFXulvOdg/VAeZ2s8zAuI/AAAAAAAAKbI/yNSK06Mpyeo/s1600-h/DSC_69744.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6974" border="0" alt="DSC_6974" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lM8wS1B8fYM/VAeZ8-K3w9I/AAAAAAAAKbQ/b0BHmYNmgJs/DSC_6974_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="417"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">While anchored in Port Maurelle we were treated to a wonderful spectacle as three whales – a bull, a mum and her baby - played just behind the boats. For the next hour we watched as the snorkellers with an official whale watch tour were treated to a fantastic experience being within touching distance of the three whales. As onlookers we had a pretty amazing show. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cPjyfIgEUdM/VAeaEN8EFvI/AAAAAAAAKbY/9p9cRJz16nE/s1600-h/DSC_708511.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7085" border="0" alt="DSC_7085" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zQBoZu9nXLI/VAeaGod5FGI/AAAAAAAAKbg/AlPbih2ti8s/DSC_7085_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bTeH9dxwQVM/VAeaJAv99dI/AAAAAAAAKbo/WpmRU9WiZsQ/s1600-h/DSC_69972.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6997" border="0" alt="DSC_6997" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N3jv9f9l9-E/VAeaLQBzhFI/AAAAAAAAKbw/s7k2roB3JFA/DSC_6997_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--q7xsXTKDW4/VAeaO03e6YI/AAAAAAAAKb4/z73U8rbmbwA/s1600-h/DSC_70056.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7005" border="0" alt="DSC_7005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KlgwVPIRews/VAeaSut8XRI/AAAAAAAAKcA/z0k8LPxejLI/DSC_7005_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aAFaeCPsHHo/VAeaWrG2BCI/AAAAAAAAKcI/t-1UQn6i6u0/s1600-h/DSC_701611.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7016" border="0" alt="DSC_7016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jtKNKe3nT8Q/VAeai_OkdpI/AAAAAAAAKcQ/TYq15_426h0/DSC_7016_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="460"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We never tired of watching the whales play and we are seeing them nearly every day. As this is a birthing ground for young whales, they spend their time here learning new tricks – so there is lots of breaching (jumping out of the water), spy hopping (sticking their head up vertically), tail slapping and rolling around. Generally it’s just like seeing a kid playing in the water. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our best experience was on our way to Vaka’eitu anchorage when we saw a mother and baby just ahead. We hove to and watched as the baby did all of the above – just a few metres away – as the photos show. If you’re bored with whales – switch off now!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PSzVlSmEaec/VAeamhy2CSI/AAAAAAAAKcY/GVYB4t5QuYs/s1600-h/DSC_70978.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7097" border="0" alt="DSC_7097" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jCeqhESu2CQ/VAeapVph1TI/AAAAAAAAKcg/L-ljpCDkvoQ/DSC_7097_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qJxUdyh9uO4/VAeark9UKzI/AAAAAAAAKco/Niy2dDYt2XI/s1600-h/DSC_70997.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7099" border="0" alt="DSC_7099" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PCDddXxG8ME/VAeat5ZjAhI/AAAAAAAAKcw/I52ZbOoxNNw/DSC_7099_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-usLoHUQu7vs/VAeawtnVAPI/AAAAAAAAKc4/ffucbhT9ERg/s1600-h/DSC_710810.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7108" border="0" alt="DSC_7108" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aCbv-qsg8AI/VAea0MOcMpI/AAAAAAAAKdA/zaJtBwrvl7w/DSC_7108_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="499" height="340"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We’ve contemplated swimming with the whales – several other cruisers have and say it’s a wonderful experience. Three things are putting us off – the price ($300pp) and the weather…it’s been windy and cool since we arrived and the whale watch boats are open and out for an entire day. Also – quite a few people lately haven’t been able to get in the water with the whales. Fellow cruisers had a wonderful time when the whales swam right up to their anchored boat and they jumped in the water with them. We’re hoping that perhaps the same will happen to us. For now, we’re just enjoying seeing whales at close quarters every day.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uu8mtBlDm3M/VAea2os3WeI/AAAAAAAAKdI/3KFn3Ofjajk/s1600-h/DSC_71188.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_7118" border="0" alt="DSC_7118" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T6L5o21guf4/VAea5RcY9xI/AAAAAAAAKdQ/pUB16y-F06Q/DSC_7118_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-8464730412976487262014-08-27T01:18:00.001+01:002014-08-27T01:26:21.754+01:00Niue – the forgotten Pacific island<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Stepping ashore in Niue felt like stepping back in time; back to 1960s New Zealand when life was totally relaxed and completely informal. On this island, which is utterly overlooked by tourism, everyone waves to each other and says hello; no one locks their cars or houses. It’s all refreshingly different from anywhere else we’ve ever been. People are genuinely friendly and the island itself is absolutely beautiful. It has a wild and rugged coastline, astonishing limestone caves and the most amazing diving and snorkelling with stunning water clarity up to 80m visibility. Oh and I did I mention the whales? </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KlEoG_tmjIc/U_0e_LOsNzI/AAAAAAAAKTY/JqNSnhjPaQQ/s1600-h/DSC_67683.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6768" border="0" alt="DSC_6768" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XZzmRzFDbf0/U_0fEgxTyyI/AAAAAAAAKTg/cjxiK6EIz3Q/DSC_6768_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our sail from Suwarrow was a mixed bag of not enough wind to too much as we slid through the pesky South Pacific Convergence Zone. On arrival in Niue we picked up a mooring buoy and contacted authorities to announce our arrival. Of course it was Tuesday – the day the Air New Zealand flight arrived from Auckland and everyone official was at the airport. No one rushes here so it was a few hours before we got the call to go to the wharf. That was no mean feat given the bay of Alofi is an open roadstead and exposed to the swell. Dinghies are winched onto the wharf which can be hair raising and our first attempt was rather hilarious but we came through unscathed!</font> </p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VmV471OD_lA/U_0fJXuCWYI/AAAAAAAAKTo/ml18BrVbxs4/s1600-h/DSC_693710.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6937" border="0" alt="DSC_6937" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yplYHWDToq4/U_0fN5AengI/AAAAAAAAKTw/kcpmtLha7tY/DSC_6937_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="284"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nbr_FzbiZgc/U_0fRjM-qgI/AAAAAAAAKT4/ExYuPorKyok/s1600-h/DSC_693912.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6939" border="0" alt="DSC_6939" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sbKdkB3eA5Y/U_0fWGrxWAI/AAAAAAAAKUA/MfNA69dv-5s/DSC_6939_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="274"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UHUUVSoV9yY/U_0fbpcfLDI/AAAAAAAAKUI/QCjg7ob32ic/s1600-h/DSC_69409.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6940" border="0" alt="DSC_6940" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0M0ZPAjckAg/U_0fhZFz-OI/AAAAAAAAKUQ/PdmtKdLXI_k/DSC_6940_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">A rickety old white van turned up and a couple of friendly chaps jumped out and introduced themselves as customs and immigration; check in was done in the back of the van, casual as you like, and it set the scene for the rest of our stay on this wonderful island. The lack of stiff formality extended to the Matavai Resort where I spent an afternoon while David was diving. They happily let me use their pool and wifi without even buying a drink. The Matavai is Niue's only resort and its wide decks were the perfect spot to whale watch. I was treated to a wonderful show as two played outside the reef. <font face="Comic Sans MS">Niue offers fantastic walks through petrified coral forest to remote and spectacular coastlines. Limestone rocks have produced some wonderful caves and we enjoyed exploring without the hassle of having to buy tickets or fight the crowds. Refreshing stuff.</font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jlWhIolIiBg/U_0fmyOA6fI/AAAAAAAAKUY/N5J_8qMiCkY/s1600-h/DSC_67727.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6772" border="0" alt="DSC_6772" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7XR1ImNDL7s/U_0fr6KmTkI/AAAAAAAAKUg/3y0t59fb6Bs/DSC_6772_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NH4-t25FWm4/U_0fw_BN6aI/AAAAAAAAKUo/ycGSk8QS30w/s1600-h/DSC_67846.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6784" border="0" alt="DSC_6784" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YPm-b-p6p2k/U_0f0jyAB1I/AAAAAAAAKUw/G_Z7KhMWC3c/DSC_6784_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="297"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iTWsAA6qifE/U_0f6SLpi5I/AAAAAAAAKU4/57lMigXdsug/s1600-h/DSC_678212.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6782" border="0" alt="DSC_6782" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y97YD_1XCns/U_0gBAIZ3TI/AAAAAAAAKVA/l-HRZrtehyU/DSC_6782_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="294"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VUT0V-pL3pQ/U_0gIKAfHEI/AAAAAAAAKVI/7MsgwKOHFQE/s1600-h/DSC_69028.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6902" border="0" alt="DSC_6902" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FhS1ZsOHwqg/U_0gO6YcGQI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/HCl7pzYFOvs/DSC_6902_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ebog79NAFpo/U_0gVilzu-I/AAAAAAAAKVY/Dx5lDx158YM/s1600-h/DSC_681910.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6819" border="0" alt="DSC_6819" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3v80QlDsLKU/U_0gb3vZMOI/AAAAAAAAKVg/_EVMi-QSr8g/DSC_6819_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Niue totally relies on aid from New Zealand – about $8m a year. In recent years the population has plummeted to fewer than 1300 as many head to greener pastures in New Zealand, where 20,000 already live. That has caused anxiety especially amongst the elders and Niue is pockmarked with hundreds of abandoned houses; entire villages have been left. Some were damaged in hurricanes but most have been simply shut up and left. Hurricanes have destroyed factories and crops including coconut plantations and lime and passion fruit crops and sadly there seems little enthusiasm today when it comes to horticulture. The local market disappointingly only offered bananas and papaya. We couldn’t help but feel it was a lost opportunity but NZ govt handouts obviously reduce incentive.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-D28_xZOq1Kk/U_0gregqqRI/AAAAAAAAKVo/dm62IirURWs/s1600-h/DSC_67792.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6779" border="0" alt="DSC_6779" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-23otjPE98Xg/U_0gxN2j1-I/AAAAAAAAKVw/rtbOpwDO_uo/DSC_6779_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eKIU2p-i0Hs/U_0g36zNB-I/AAAAAAAAKV4/1e5SDx7pNDE/s1600-h/DSC_69264.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6926" border="0" alt="DSC_6926" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gly86Lw013k/U_0g_5bmHQI/AAAAAAAAKWA/xabg1HTAdUA/DSC_6926_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-81IgWxTn_lg/U_0hIagasOI/AAAAAAAAKWI/zBJWq-avTek/s1600-h/DSC_69292.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6929" border="0" alt="DSC_6929" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z1oE0qDK_YM/U_0hUcYYw9I/AAAAAAAAKWQ/FzQfycQCB50/DSC_6929_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">At the Lakepa Village Fair- a fantastic day out attended by the entire island - an elder took a crack at Air New Zealand for “taking all our people away.” It’s a sad fact that after our government funded the airport extension to the tune of some $6m it only encouraged more people to leave the island. Unfortunately outsiders aren’t able to buy land and so properties are just left. It’s a shame as Niue would be a great winter bolthole for Kiwis and we certainly eyed up some cliff-top properties with huge potential. </font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GXD7rKKyjdQ/U_0hc8bkC_I/AAAAAAAAKWY/a93GxIzZFGo/s1600-h/DSC_68389.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6838" border="0" alt="DSC_6838" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-swmXgs0GpCI/U_0hpHMJ8wI/AAAAAAAAKWg/Vhh_rEpjIXo/DSC_6838_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="310"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VKjLjflPx10/U_0h2GGSxMI/AAAAAAAAKWo/wK0O_xkWz0k/s1600-h/DSC_68397.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6839" border="0" alt="DSC_6839" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J4HpNcblK2U/U_0h_5Vo1gI/AAAAAAAAKWw/WkEmn6mvS3A/DSC_6839_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-51qKJ6vE5ac/U_0iIVzt-PI/AAAAAAAAKW4/jX-nBmpiClA/s1600-h/DSC_6847.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6847" border="0" alt="DSC_6847" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-impjc5nTv-w/U_0iOVtRw6I/AAAAAAAAKXA/H6LWgfslLJI/DSC_6847_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="186"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XnqGqjf1GuQ/U_0iUnp6JUI/AAAAAAAAKXI/zhU_PjbrVfI/s1600-h/DSC_6841.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6841" border="0" alt="DSC_6841" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oj9IWQq28WE/U_0iYOX2BRI/AAAAAAAAKXQ/LkLS5njJlNA/DSC_6841_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="212" height="185"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ms3cIBdkw7c/U_0iiHzhmYI/AAAAAAAAKXY/lk2gsVk3rdU/s1600-h/DSC_685423.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6854" border="0" alt="DSC_6854" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sG3AxAHIw9Q/U_0ilZhUtqI/AAAAAAAAKXg/s5nar_gnOuk/DSC_6854_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="477"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PgD-TngQ9wU/U_0ipQw254I/AAAAAAAAKXo/eI4PdGPd5bU/s1600-h/DSC_685212.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6852" border="0" alt="DSC_6852" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jeXBOZPGrNw/U_0itgSWSMI/AAAAAAAAKXw/e-CX5FgHs44/DSC_6852_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="253"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BBMRflKIQ18/U_0ixLbCaKI/AAAAAAAAKX4/Ac7vOTwesZw/s1600-h/DSC_68439.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6843" border="0" alt="DSC_6843" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5nSVo_Eklno/U_0i0dGvi5I/AAAAAAAAKYA/f5rT0QTYMYQ/DSC_6843_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="244"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">During our week in Niue we fell in love with the laid back lifestyle. Where else would a rental car agent turn up barefoot waving away any paperwork or money – “do it later”, he said. There isn’t much in the way of five star cuisine but we found the fresh fish (wahoo) and chips and flat whites at the fantastic Uga cliff top cafe as good as any in NZ. A bonus was the panoramic view over the bay. Niue is a great spot to pack a picnic lunch and head to the deserted east coast and sit and watch the surf roll in. We were overwhelmed at the water clarity – Bandit was sitting in 39m and we could clearly see the bottom.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NG9lJ7-2C2M/U_0i5NQ9pEI/AAAAAAAAKYI/ru41xkQr_TU/s1600-h/DSC_67923.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6792" border="0" alt="DSC_6792" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6w_5FdtZsOQ/U_0i8p2UzYI/AAAAAAAAKYQ/KsKwEFqpk4s/DSC_6792_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FjFcLAVmh80/U_0jC1s2vaI/AAAAAAAAKYY/yuJgAuK6Zak/s1600-h/DSC_68054.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6805" border="0" alt="DSC_6805" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fuNn_X8x8ZU/U_0jK6_gH-I/AAAAAAAAKYg/BRYIBq9ehGI/DSC_6805_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ES7OvbR-AyM/U_0jR0Xm5fI/AAAAAAAAKYo/gFHAf-oODa4/s1600-h/DSC_68097.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6809" border="0" alt="DSC_6809" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n3VWSlxay4A/U_0jWBhppwI/AAAAAAAAKYw/mtqvZn9jJYU/DSC_6809_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Niue’s main attraction are the migrating humpback whales that appear in August and September. We had a mum and her calf in the anchorage most days playing but, of course, the one afternoon we went ashore for an ice-cream (Hokey Pokey trumpet…it’s been a while) they decided to play around Bandit. Our neighbours gleefully told us of the magnificent show they’d had in our absence! We made up for it when a humpback breached just behind Bandit – leaping right out of the water four or five times. By the time I raced below to grab the camera he’d almost finished his magnificent act – all I captured was the gigantic splash.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2GCFSkqac2k/U_0jb9PUACI/AAAAAAAAKY4/NcENb8OoTmg/s1600-h/DSC_69415.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6941" border="0" alt="DSC_6941" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W8BmIbRGcnQ/U_0jiixfJMI/AAAAAAAAKZA/5BWMDkMc7lY/DSC_6941_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">For anyone looking for a soft adventure tourism destination, a place where you don’t have to escape the crowds (there aren’t any), an island with fantastic hikes and some of the best snorkelling and diving we’ve had – head for Niue. You won’t be disappointed.</font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-6558520710420047642014-08-22T03:02:00.001+01:002014-08-22T03:03:49.039+01:00An Island almost to Oneself<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">“Why on earth would you go to Suwarrow – it’s in the middle of nowhere and there’s nothing there.” So said cruising friend Chris Evans from Tulu when we told him we were going to the remote Pacific Atoll made famous by Kiwi Tom Neale. Neale lived there as a self sufficient recluse in the 50s, 60s and 70s and became an icon amongst cruising sailors who were his only visitors. His classic book, An Island to Oneself, written about his time on Suwarrow inspired David when he read it many years ago. Our visit was to pay homage to Tom as well as break the long passage from French Polynesia to Nuie. And of course to visit a place Chris summed up so succinctly – an island so beautifully remote with absolutely nothing there. Few cruisers visit as it is, fortunately, off the beaten track.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zvxJLIcqZOA/U_V2DRgt5MI/AAAAAAAAKOg/ygTJ5dspwdk/s1600-h/DSC_67364.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6736" border="0" alt="DSC_6736" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y8_6ynZn4wo/U_V2VClBa5I/AAAAAAAAKOo/gu1mPEYk9RY/DSC_6736_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="349"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-goqx1-DQHRE/U_V2qiF1NZI/AAAAAAAAKOw/ZZ2EhUvorzQ/s1600-h/DSC_66497.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6649" border="0" alt="DSC_6649" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--ewK9tz5USE/U_V2wjJWFLI/AAAAAAAAKO4/77vKh9xFffI/DSC_6649_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rzKSmMIEZmU/U_V3AIpXSDI/AAAAAAAAKPA/k3ZqroaMpTU/s1600-h/DSC_67277.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6727" border="0" alt="DSC_6727" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vVNqxu8TqnU/U_V3JPP5HVI/AAAAAAAAKPI/qMwkSHA1ClM/DSC_6727_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It’s easy to see why Tom loved Suwarrow – it really is an unspoilt paradise with its azure lagoon overflowing with marine life and sandy motus full of birds. Tom lived on Anchorage Island for three extended periods between 1952 and 1977 until stomach cancer forced him to seek treatment in Rarotonga where he died. When he first arrived by boat, the then 50 year old was overwhelmed by the beauty of Suwarrow. In his book he wrote “I’ve never seen so many colours as the vivid blues, greens and even pinks – no painter could have imitated those patterns formed by underwater coral at different depths. I know this is the place I’ve been looking for all this time”. Back then very few yachts visited and the crew off one, that blew onto a reef during a storm, ended up as castaways, staying with Tom for several months until they flagged down a passing ship to rescue them. Another couple who visited in 1954 found Neale in agony having injured his back and nursed him back to health.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aN-t-n1-7Rk/U_V3PuJGmLI/AAAAAAAAKPQ/i5XpUoo_FoI/s1600-h/DSC_665218.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6652" border="0" alt="DSC_6652" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6KGc9SMsLHo/U_V3aAi-sMI/AAAAAAAAKPY/jwK8S7Uk0pg/DSC_6652_thumb19.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ekrQPwtE7nY/U_V3sn90r3I/AAAAAAAAKPg/DWqpqqcvdKk/s1600-h/DSC_66588.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6658" border="0" alt="DSC_6658" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ev94BAOTKnM/U_V33cFITNI/AAAAAAAAKPo/AFFo6e1JPnE/DSC_6658_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Qnc0C65r7LU/U_V4E0cYbBI/AAAAAAAAKPw/kdOoilcnBCY/s1600-h/IMG_095414.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0954" border="0" alt="IMG_0954" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--mfqXOAdy1A/U_V4K5CDiPI/AAAAAAAAKP4/x8wFmNHijRM/IMG_0954_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="308"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Nothing much has changed since Tom’s day except the island is visited by far more yachts. When we arrived there were seven boats in the anchorage but they slowly left and for the last two days there were just three of us – bliss. Suwarrow remains an idyllic haven and we felt very privileged to be able to spend time there. Tom’s house still stands as does a statue in his honour. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Suwarrow is looked after by caretaker Harry Papai and his wife Vaine. They spend six months on the island and are kept busy dealing with the official paperwork for visiting yachts, monitoring the rat eradication programme, keeping an eye on the nesting birds on the outlying motus and keeping their house and grounds tidy. It’s a lonely life, especially when the trickle of cruising yachts tails off but one they thoroughly enjoy. In typical hospitable Cook Island style, Harry swung by one afternoon to offer the cruisers a freshly caught fish for dinner! Another night the couple hosted a pot luck dinner onshore where Vaine’s corned beef casserole was the star – it was absolutely delicious!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2ZXou6U1hPI/U_ajxdw3GzI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/8rtjxfELEEs/s1600-h/DSC_666710.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6667" border="0" alt="DSC_6667" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_M697tEyq9c/U_aj1POKqfI/AAAAAAAAKRY/cLKu4PsA_Kc/DSC_6667_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="357"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The Suwarrow lagoon is full of sharks but Harry assured us if we snorkelled on the marked reefs near the main island we would be fine. We were happy to follow his orders and had a wonderful time snorkelling with a manta ray who seemed oblivious to us floating above him while further below white tipped sharks slept on the sea bed. We also snorkelled on reefs with some of the nicest coral we’ve seen. Of course we were always accompanied by inquisitive black tipped sharks even when we swam off the back of Bandit. David couldn’t resist hand feeding the sharks on the other side of the island.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-clsEl43mqsU/U_aj38AyFMI/AAAAAAAAKRg/IF4Idz_bmFc/s1600-h/DSC_672418.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6724" border="0" alt="DSC_6724" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ISNGfQ9_6jA/U_aj6q7OGRI/AAAAAAAAKRo/ljpvu4ZCT84/DSC_6724_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YIdJD92cRIk/U_aj92i9ysI/AAAAAAAAKRw/cnxUbwhjUDE/s1600-h/DSC_675516.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6755" border="0" alt="DSC_6755" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wk_cXM71zH8/U_aj_2xXZ7I/AAAAAAAAKR4/T4ODcZE2lLI/DSC_6755_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="159"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3jEsEpbYYpk/U_akCjxz19I/AAAAAAAAKSA/_s5FKqi5P4U/s1600-h/DSC_675916.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6759" border="0" alt="DSC_6759" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-b9N_qOqchCM/U_akFNS5TyI/AAAAAAAAKSI/mFKzIRxowR8/DSC_6759_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9-uXjsY-5JU/U_akKhykWrI/AAAAAAAAKSQ/Bj7Xp5K7goE/s1600-h/DSC_675214.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6752" border="0" alt="DSC_6752" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-p-7IoNRHazw/U_akOq8MB-I/AAAAAAAAKSY/-RNYXp-O5sM/DSC_6752_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="333"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It’s forbidden to land at any motus other than Anchorage Island due to the numerous birds who nest and lay eggs there. A rat eradication programme has proved successful – we didn’t see one during our stay. Apparently previous cruisers reported having rats join them for drinks on the beach. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">As always there were jobs to do – repairing our genoa and bimini damaged during our rough trip to Suwarrow. But at the end of each day there was always a cold beer to be had!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2Lcc7vRs_pI/U_akSu4JPPI/AAAAAAAAKSg/nW9OuLbYIPU/s1600-h/DSC_67238.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6723" border="0" alt="DSC_6723" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HFTizPlKgmA/U_akXqL28XI/AAAAAAAAKSo/NEdkuA3NkFk/DSC_6723_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="209"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CTD1CFV3fd8/U_akazrOtMI/AAAAAAAAKSw/_5Y5BKMY1Hc/s1600-h/DSC_67319.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6731" border="0" alt="DSC_6731" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5kam5Xk2MQk/U_akiQLYqqI/AAAAAAAAKS4/WckuQM066xE/DSC_6731_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="196"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Rotn2BHP_dY/U_aklo-FSaI/AAAAAAAAKTA/PhZl4-2pUvk/s1600-h/DSC_670312.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6703" border="0" alt="DSC_6703" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1FhpYEg6Noc/U_akpjN9FpI/AAAAAAAAKTI/d38Fu4PjWE4/DSC_6703_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">A highlight of our time was having two humpback whales swimming through the anchorage – right beside the boats. We were in the tender on our way snorkelling and by the time we went back to get the camera they were swimming away. It was a very special experience being so close to them in the tender – they were only a few boat lengths away. By the way – Chris (and wife) Sara took our advice and visited Suwarrow and loved it. When they come to New Zealand in February we’ll lend them our copy of Tom Neales’ book.</font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-21075505613271709812014-08-21T05:06:00.001+01:002014-08-22T04:45:35.844+01:00Tragedy in Suwarrow<span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">It was every cruiser’s nightmare – a middle of the night gale with howling winds and torrential rain in a confined anchorage strewn with coral heads. We’d only just arrived in Suwarrow after a rather scruffy and tiring five day/night passage from Maupiti and all we wanted was a good night’s sleep. After an early dinner we crashed into bed at 7pm but were rudely awoken at midnight when the gale tore through the anchorage. Instead of sleeping we, and everyone else in the anchorage, spent a long night on anchor watch…terrified of dragging. Australian friends Liz and Steve on Amiable, anchored behind us, had the worst stroke of luck when they snapped their anchor chain on coral and were blown onto a reef in a 40knot gust.</span><br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8XCd-X3_48o/U_VvEfy2JhI/AAAAAAAAKMo/5RSoF09NPxc/s1600-h/DSC_668114.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6681" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AGe9d3TboYU/U_VvJI_a6jI/AAAAAAAAKMw/N0AVO_cEj8U/DSC_66811_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" height="340" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6681" width="503" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">They spent a terrifying night waiting for rescue as conditions were too atrocious for any attempt to be made before daylight. Cruisers maintained a VHF vigil to support them and try and nut out a rescue plan. At first light Suwarrow caretaker Harry Papai was roused and he lifted an unhurt but shattered Steve and Liz off Amiable using his aluminium dinghy. For the next five days cruisers did what they could to help and support the couple particularly with the salvage of items from Amiable. It was a very tough time for everyone.</span><br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FyynGkt28uw/U_VvMJupQKI/AAAAAAAAKM4/9VrEVaysK3g/s1600-h/DSC_664214.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6642" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kr9_G9r17gM/U_VvOkQMe6I/AAAAAAAAKNA/YjP57-Vfaso/DSC_6642_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" height="331" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6642" width="504" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R20xa9ICj0w/U_VvSLAYtwI/AAAAAAAAKNI/n0bOfVBwONQ/s1600-h/DSC_66805.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6680" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v7LG_uJiUh8/U_VvWLwOmHI/AAAAAAAAKNQ/TFD3MNVlE0Y/DSC_6680_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" height="164" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6680" width="240" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tJLaO-nufTI/U_VvZcoeMJI/AAAAAAAAKNY/JKN3EqHrnAM/s1600-h/DSC_668810.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6688" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4U0X-GkRWOc/U_VvccrqZ5I/AAAAAAAAKNg/yhj5tZo5iHQ/DSC_6688_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" height="165" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6688" width="244" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ay-9JfipccA/U_VvgqnSQAI/AAAAAAAAKNo/tjNWjpRJ5zE/s1600-h/DSC_66898.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6689" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xWkiMD92LTo/U_VvjmM1U-I/AAAAAAAAKNw/BQugwVzFLXY/DSC_6689_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" height="163" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6689" width="241" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jtUHNDlu3aI/U_VvnX7--0I/AAAAAAAAKN4/qvGAJ2BkZm8/s1600-h/DSC_67117.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6711" border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AiFmGRyeuSk/U_Vvt_xhzYI/AAAAAAAAKOA/r0xgScjeM1U/DSC_6711_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" height="165" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6711" width="244" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dq11JWPzbVM/U_VwASEh4UI/AAAAAAAAKOI/YXpvzVgDoFQ/s1600-h/DSC_673012.jpg"><img alt="DSC_6730" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BLQIM_3aEt0/U_VwLdKKTMI/AAAAAAAAKOQ/CA21kRlJO_I/DSC_6730_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" height="339" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_6730" width="504" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">The tragedy marred our time in beautiful Suwarrow and our thoughts are with Steve and Liz whose cruising time in the Pacific has been cut cruelly short.</span> <span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;">The cruising community showed its depth and dozens of offers of support and help flowed in. Liz opted to leave on another boat heading to Samoa so she could deal with the aftermath with decent internet and telephone facilities (there is nothing in Suwarrow) while Steve stayed on to wait for his friend Franz on Vela to arrive. A terribly sobering reminder of how things on yachts can, and do, go wrong so very quickly. </span>Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-22119141376581192162014-08-21T04:59:00.001+01:002014-08-21T05:00:29.367+01:00Majestic mantas in Maupiti<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Maupiti is the French Polynesian island tourism forgot and it’s all the better for it. The locals say it was how Bora Bora was 30 years ago – before it was overrun with hotel complexes and tourists. Such activity was vetoed on Maupiti so there is little development - no hotels, jet skis, tourist shops, helicopter tours or parasailing operations! It’s all very villagey with a wonderful laid back feel and a perfect place for us to end our time in French Polynesia.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XYMrNQwSb1Q/U_Vs3ZtpPhI/AAAAAAAAKJo/GOY88_icePo/s1600-h/DSC_661810.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6618" border="0" alt="DSC_6618" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-c5GDrogLJWU/U_VtKBYJ-xI/AAAAAAAAKJw/qtEVFGBGHAw/DSC_6618_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sU0Hrx71u28/U_VtcatJf-I/AAAAAAAAKJ4/2ypA5iHWusI/s1600-h/DSC_6626.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6626" border="0" alt="DSC_6626" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P7yj-hbzgSc/U_VtkWe99gI/AAAAAAAAKKA/B6UJ-PjEjd0/DSC_6626_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="177"></a> <font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_spMj1XSC4I/U_VtoXMA-_I/AAAAAAAAKKI/qLNgwC093P4/s1600-h/DSC_66335.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6633" border="0" alt="DSC_6633" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7JFeVcc1cTU/U_VtsW4e84I/AAAAAAAAKKQ/N5aOR5S_hnw/DSC_6633_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="219" height="180"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Maupiti had always been on our radar but it was totally weather dependent due to its narrow pass which has a fearsome reputation. If the weather cuts up from the south boats have been known to be trapped there for some days. With northerlies blowing when we arrived the pass was safe and perfectly straightforward with clear channel markers so we entered and spent three magical days enjoying the island with its beautiful deserted sandy motus and turquoise lagoon. We’d been told there were no supplies available but given the lush vegetation ashore we couldn’t believe it and sure enough we stumbled across local women selling beautiful tomatoes, cucumbers and eggplants. We also filled our backpacks with mangos, papaya and banana and Kiwi friends delivered us a delicious fresh loaf of bread – not a baguette either, but a proper loaf – divine!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-onz1OdqVQg8/U_VtwHhz6TI/AAAAAAAAKKY/DHtOWNuauRw/s1600-h/DSC_65803.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6580" border="0" alt="DSC_6580" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C5TyjMRLPHg/U_Vtykm8iSI/AAAAAAAAKKg/MTddPooCvBk/DSC_6580_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mrVvdOj6ERw/U_Vt1wU5c7I/AAAAAAAAKKo/Z-SeZmPj8Ws/s1600-h/DSC_65948.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6594" border="0" alt="DSC_6594" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5koCwJXM4u4/U_Vt4eA4YTI/AAAAAAAAKKw/6kUUWi__t2I/DSC_6594_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p_nD1nAqL58/U_Vt7O75TRI/AAAAAAAAKK4/ijf6aT8xlTw/s1600-h/DSC_65853.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6585" border="0" alt="DSC_6585" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Fb773qJq0LE/U_Vt9z-RaYI/AAAAAAAAKLA/Ty52xuI3bGs/DSC_6585_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Once again the Bandit bikes were dragged out to cycle around the island and what a beautiful ride it was. At one point the road went up a steep hill so up we biked to enjoy the breath-taking views over the lagoon across to Bora Bora, Raiatea and Taha’a in the east. After a refreshing glide back down we came across a local wedding and enjoyed watching that before heading on around the island. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Imagine our despair when the road ran out and we were forced to go back up that damned hill again! We were tired bunnies at the end of the day.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sAJhFXDdMkw/U_VuBY6P6yI/AAAAAAAAKLI/IEfYGj8iaAM/s1600-h/DSC_66002.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6600" border="0" alt="DSC_6600" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-S92p18DdP5U/U_VuEDWgTNI/AAAAAAAAKLQ/80x5brbwxwQ/DSC_6600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Bw8FnVsYyAA/U_VuHthpqrI/AAAAAAAAKLY/0CkXiV0dM3c/s1600-h/DSC_65954.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6595" border="0" alt="DSC_6595" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-g53rPlgUfbM/U_VuKBoWtiI/AAAAAAAAKLg/BSTJT7NnEPY/DSC_6595_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-I6dwh7KNViA/U_VuOIE59kI/AAAAAAAAKLo/oIK8FrpaQ7s/s1600-h/DSC_65983.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6598" border="0" alt="DSC_6598" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--4gIQdIyKAg/U_VuSWLlbGI/AAAAAAAAKLw/Nyp8Idxx9kA/DSC_6598_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_3FZdbzWZko/U_VuXo6In6I/AAAAAAAAKL4/zmRCiiAA6VA/s1600-h/DSC_66053.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6605" border="0" alt="DSC_6605" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_OG3hjAFkXs/U_VubWIiTWI/AAAAAAAAKMA/8iRRPx5fdZk/DSC_6605_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TA-nf_LpH8Q/U_Vue0q-V-I/AAAAAAAAKMI/6EPWKguBYiI/s1600-h/DSC_66073.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6607" border="0" alt="DSC_6607" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ecGEVMPNUVs/U_Vuhu1qAlI/AAAAAAAAKMQ/WUQ3C7FSpnc/DSC_6607_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">The highlight of our time was snorkelling with the majestic manta rays. In Maupiti the mantas hang out at the anchorage in the south so after a few days anchored off the village we headed down. The water was crystal clear and as we slowly picked our way in through coral heads we could see dark shapes in the water. We jumped in and were delighted to find about 12 graceful mantas just cruising around – amazing. We spent about an hour just gliding along with them and again the next day. A memorable experience.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z0mAdrgj97M/U_Vulk-TeRI/AAAAAAAAKMY/HSsPoyYBVnw/s1600-h/DSC_66373.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6637" border="0" alt="DSC_6637" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7LpIt3KMEj4/U_VupLxAvoI/AAAAAAAAKMg/4Ic5JhL45S8/DSC_6637_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The weather looked good to head west to Suwarrow so after a wonderful few days we reluctantly upped anchor. With brisk south easterlies blowing the pass was far more tricky to exit than enter and we were relived to be through and into deep water – these reef entries and exits are hard on the nerves.</font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-43960136514830930552014-07-25T04:06:00.001+01:002014-07-25T04:08:07.550+01:00Bye bye Bora Bora<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our previous trip to Bora Bora a few weeks ago with friends Chick and Pete Anderson from Blenheim didn’t set our senses alight. The weather wasn’t great, the water was cloudy and the people distinctly unfriendly. This time around with friends Johnny and Jenny Oswald we had endless blue skies and sunny days and we were pleasantly surprised to discover the water was crystal clear. At times it took on that magical Bombay Sapphire colour…an amazing turquoise with the darker azure blue of deeper water in the distance. It was very easy to sit in the cockpit and gaze and have the occasional dip of course.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JIHH9V7heVg/U9HIvh9MYnI/AAAAAAAAKFw/Qd7tDULBiM4/s1600-h/DSC_64751.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6475" border="0" alt="DSC_6475" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8fbmt-xV_Pk/U9HIxxj9MwI/AAAAAAAAKF4/fU97VOBFD58/DSC_6475_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kvwe5qXKreE/U9HI0pyPR6I/AAAAAAAAKGA/R6qM19uGBUY/s1600-h/IMG_093612.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0936" border="0" alt="IMG_0936" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jr_1v51P86o/U9HI2fCUDwI/AAAAAAAAKGI/YJzK7fha1jg/IMG_0936_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="238" height="179"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Bw0hEm7TdlQ/U9HI5xohVJI/AAAAAAAAKGQ/Ud4X6-OAbr4/s1600-h/DSC_65068.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6506" border="0" alt="DSC_6506" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RNWp5PFUfdU/U9HI7qfZanI/AAAAAAAAKGY/6Y0IVZp_Zds/DSC_6506_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="168"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Wanting to explore the entire island and make the most of our time here we decided to tour by bike. Johnny and Jenny hired bikes and we went through the drama of extracting ours from the depths of the twin cabin (now affectionately called the garage). Off we went with me declaring I would only bike to the top of the island and back as 35 kms sounded way too far on our small wheeled boat bikes. However the road was (mostly) flat and the scenery was stunning…we all just kept pedalling and before long we were halfway around. After a reviving lunch stop, greedily and hungrily gulping down our premade filled baguettes, we continued to the south to swim at a gorgeous white sandy beach. It was a weary foursome who cycled back into the main town of Vaitape late afternoon laden down with mangos picked from roadside trees.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-thuHaC3fFS0/U9HI-Sg0HEI/AAAAAAAAKGg/vHxtsQBxde4/s1600-h/DSC_64315.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6431" border="0" alt="DSC_6431" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nEIoP6swFDo/U9HJA5OxQOI/AAAAAAAAKGo/BOpkdgSuNj4/DSC_6431_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="346"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VFUh1LlKp-c/U9HJE025TEI/AAAAAAAAKGw/z_RoTFhwS_I/s1600-h/DSC_64374.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6437" border="0" alt="DSC_6437" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tZT6VeO1Y2o/U9HJGiUKlPI/AAAAAAAAKG4/QhYNo9z0mqI/DSC_6437_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="221"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4BAPSjYh4wY/U9HJJi9F7FI/AAAAAAAAKHA/GmpBx9Yu_Fw/s1600-h/DSC_64355.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6435" border="0" alt="DSC_6435" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FXpdeHRvVK0/U9HJK-e0iQI/AAAAAAAAKHI/yW05CrdiqiQ/DSC_6435_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="218" height="224"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vrtZhrqDhHU/U9HJNYbBu0I/AAAAAAAAKHQ/Qx6P-mx-xJE/s1600-h/DSC_64368.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6436" border="0" alt="DSC_6436" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GMICHYmsT9A/U9HJPKoXk5I/AAAAAAAAKHY/a8ejsbo6rUE/DSC_6436_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FMrghoQyRg0/U9HJQ-7k_iI/AAAAAAAAKHg/LtQPjmkzzWk/s1600-h/DSC_64394.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6439" border="0" alt="DSC_6439" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z9B_at1yDfA/U9HJR_iKZdI/AAAAAAAAKHo/yZF7U9IryBU/DSC_6439_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QE9xQqIdQ4A/U9HJT_u1OTI/AAAAAAAAKHw/Eafg--AzwzU/s1600-h/DSC_64423.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6442" border="0" alt="DSC_6442" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XFhyDoDWQTw/U9HJVZVpfKI/AAAAAAAAKH4/yXDyZKcSaCI/DSC_6442_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We enjoyed some lovely days snorkelling on the reef in the south of the island before heading up to the Bora Bora Yacht Club. It has fantastic facilities for cruisers including showers, a waterfront bar and restaurant. It is an absolute joy to indulge in a long shower without thinking about conserving water! We spent a few days near the main town and I had my Tahitian pearls made into a necklace. The pearls came from the Tuamotos and Raiatea – some we bought, others were traded and a few were gifts. They are all very special and it was a sheer delight to have them made up into a stunning necklace that holds very special memories.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sUGthmxqo70/U9HJXbLN5SI/AAAAAAAAKIA/v675HzDakOI/s1600-h/IMG_094610.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0946" border="0" alt="IMG_0946" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ukhxUShFZFo/U9HJYp2XZJI/AAAAAAAAKII/Om5-cdpgFkw/IMG_0946_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XQpI0bQ0P-o/U9HJa7_dd5I/AAAAAAAAKIQ/bcH14S_zPU8/s1600-h/IMG_09438.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0943" border="0" alt="IMG_0943" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aYVfr9TpcK4/U9HJb6pIpRI/AAAAAAAAKIY/_Egy3lHTZsw/IMG_0943_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We dropped Johnny and Jenny off at the town dock for their flight back to Moorea where they will spend a few days before flying back to NZ. We had a wonderful time with them and, as always with friends, it was sad to see them leave.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s9HEBRwfSdM/U9HJdl67zNI/AAAAAAAAKIg/u8RmxwGR6fc/s1600-h/DSC_65037.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6503" border="0" alt="DSC_6503" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eqfuE1eI8Co/U9HJe4QXVnI/AAAAAAAAKIo/_FNvywwTxZ0/DSC_6503_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-coGPG-ponRE/U9HJh5UqWZI/AAAAAAAAKIw/vQlz1a8eVgo/s1600-h/DSC_64933.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6493" border="0" alt="DSC_6493" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M1PO7ifvteM/U9HJjPhdbUI/AAAAAAAAKI4/Ldv6lwASQdU/DSC_6493_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nZQRCZUX4qU/U9HJlWJq-8I/AAAAAAAAKJA/25isx-r2FKE/s1600-h/DSC_65088.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6508" border="0" alt="DSC_6508" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iFM2IkmnIT4/U9HJmW3zdBI/AAAAAAAAKJI/unQw4EMA0Ic/DSC_6508_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Back on board Bandit it was time for some serious provisioning, washing, stowing and general chores. We hope to head away to nearby Maupiti on Friday and then onto Suvarrow on Sunday. There is no internet facility on either island so from now on (until Samoa or Tonga) we’ll only be using our “at sea” blog – <a href="http://www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit">www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit</font><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Feel free to email us on <a href="mailto:yachtbandit@mailasail.com">yachtbandit@mailasail.com</a> – we love receiving emails at sea but be aware we can receive text only – no letterheads, no photos and please, no junk mail.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pcTZ6Kr36Bc/U9HJqJZ9MSI/AAAAAAAAKJQ/zjdQGKAKuUY/s1600-h/IMG_09417.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0941" border="0" alt="IMG_0941" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-16AflWRE_X0/U9HJsBaqAnI/AAAAAAAAKJY/W2K2OOaoWjM/IMG_0941_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-80096175266827436802014-07-21T03:53:00.001+01:002014-07-21T03:55:48.376+01:00Festival time in French Polynesia<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The Heiva was in full swing in Huahine and Raiatea in early July and we managed to catch plenty of activities. An annual two week festival that is held in the lead up to Bastille Day the Heiva originated back in 1882 but before that a pagan festival was held to mark the southern hemisphere solstice. The Heiva is taken seriously and on any island there will be a long list of activities planned. Locals really get into the swing of things and it was great to watch traditional dancing and events such as coconut husking contests, a run carrying bananas on sticks and pirogue (outrigger canoe) races.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vGGhG37AM-E/U8x_Z4yRorI/AAAAAAAAKAA/rPwbEgP2hqE/s1600-h/DSC_63224.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6322" border="0" alt="DSC_6322" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VeMffr26osk/U8x_b97acSI/AAAAAAAAKAI/vSvO5du6uqM/DSC_6322_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K4RYuQpAhUo/U8x_eJVOxvI/AAAAAAAAKAQ/m9fAdQJ3buo/s1600-h/IMG_09302.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0930" border="0" alt="IMG_0930" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-icxWylVEeSg/U8x_fZj-nBI/AAAAAAAAKAY/g_QC1TdO1Vw/IMG_0930_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="275"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oYc-1ndQvd4/U8x_hgLrUTI/AAAAAAAAKAg/iKqSytPRAtE/s1600-h/IMG_09242.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0924" border="0" alt="IMG_0924" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KFfG7r21N8M/U8x_iye_LTI/AAAAAAAAKAo/4KUg34d6a2I/IMG_0924_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="268"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We sailed to Huahine to pick up Blenheim friends Jenny and Johnny Oswald and, before they arrived, had a lovely few days relaxing and just enjoying this lovely island. One day we hired a scooter and toured both Huahine and Huahine Iti – the smaller island in the south – stopping to pick papaya and banana from the lush tropical roadsides. Few tourists visit this island and the locals were particularly friendly and welcoming. It was a refreshing break from the busier islands.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Bv-LnFqxttA/U8x_lvNeLuI/AAAAAAAAKAw/i2ScoSZp6W4/s1600-h/DSC_627112.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6271" border="0" alt="DSC_6271" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OGT1bfD9FAM/U8x_paW1XcI/AAAAAAAAKA4/1k9ilDqSSh8/DSC_6271_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--72ZHy9kxNA/U8x_rw76esI/AAAAAAAAKBA/MuDCCUdxOu4/s1600-h/DSC_6264.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6264" border="0" alt="DSC_6264" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gL3p49XJC4w/U8x_tHips3I/AAAAAAAAKBI/hlpqjL0h8Kc/DSC_6264_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="204"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dxyv1VZtNNE/U8x_vNRMkbI/AAAAAAAAKBQ/Jl0O-5ES74o/s1600-h/IMG_088910.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0889" border="0" alt="IMG_0889" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-g5YvxdSgtEs/U8x_wDx10JI/AAAAAAAAKBY/t9kyZIv_afI/IMG_0889_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h2ipJPLs1H0/U8x_yQnhX9I/AAAAAAAAKBg/Pyh5PQJR-bw/s1600-h/IMG_08952.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0895" border="0" alt="IMG_0895" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KZnWPu_jMCM/U8x_zTPaGNI/AAAAAAAAKBo/ALc-8_uR8GM/IMG_0895_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PnIDMo_GevE/U8x_2dBI3OI/AAAAAAAAKBw/ApEnsFJpjC8/s1600-h/IMG_0902.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0902" border="0" alt="IMG_0902" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wxj2JNQJ5q0/U8x_3fZiIzI/AAAAAAAAKB4/Xy27oFI4eLI/IMG_0902_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">With Johnny and Jenny on board and good wind forecast we set off for Taha’a. There was a bit more wind than we expected and, for the first time in ages, we were hard on the wind. It made for a fast trip. On Taha’a we headed around to the wonderful coral gardens on the west coast. The snorkelling between two motus (islands) is exceptional with friendly and inquisitive fish and some lovely coral. We also discovered some excellent snorkelling a little further north. The best thing about the anchorage is the stunning view of Bora Bora. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pJs0Ljp4vTA/U8x_4hamfrI/AAAAAAAAKCA/Iz7W_20lioY/s1600-h/DSC_627612.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6276" border="0" alt="DSC_6276" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6HUuI1Xtatk/U8x_5_XOKUI/AAAAAAAAKCI/xusV0Gfam1U/DSC_6276_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-l7R-NEkTXxo/U8yAEfiK72I/AAAAAAAAKCQ/o58EbcylWaA/s1600-h/Fish-feeding8.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Fish feeding" border="0" alt="Fish feeding" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tOQY46e1UXU/U8yAG5lolfI/AAAAAAAAKCY/-pJWmdoq20g/Fish-feeding_thumb6.png?imgmax=800" width="241" height="162"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We sailed around Taha’a and went onto the dock at Uta Roa on Raiatea which was jam packed with cruising boats all there for Bastille Day. It was fun to catch up with friends we hadn’t seen for a while. The next day we enjoyed the celebrations held to farewell the fleet of traditional sailing boats that headed off to recreate the early Polynesian voyage to Samoa and New Zealand. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NMhzaZXxsZM/U8yAIf327jI/AAAAAAAAKCg/d3mOqYTR3sE/s1600-h/DSC_63188.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6318" border="0" alt="DSC_6318" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uLLlzfCPL2A/U8yANPSSdcI/AAAAAAAAKCo/eBsH9TpeAA8/DSC_6318_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FyTMu-Io57Y/U8yAOv3dFlI/AAAAAAAAKCw/1VtxJZ-NV4Y/s1600-h/DSC_63446.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6344" border="0" alt="DSC_6344" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4MbVcHo2ZqA/U8yAPtI4NEI/AAAAAAAAKC4/hUC1Lh6IE2g/DSC_6344_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="295"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MMKsyGR6jQw/U8yARd1HFnI/AAAAAAAAKDA/fmReVbIr5uM/s1600-h/DSC_63455.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6345" border="0" alt="DSC_6345" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LpxaFG4qIp4/U8yASjNnHhI/AAAAAAAAKDI/xsXiRW1OKkM/DSC_6345_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="215" height="287"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sSoPUel_NjU/U8yAUkWaItI/AAAAAAAAKDQ/U-BKZP27YUk/s1600-h/DSC_63515.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6351" border="0" alt="DSC_6351" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5lUqxIygtyU/U8yAWDboQpI/AAAAAAAAKDY/kk3xIgxb-8Q/DSC_6351_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-anQ8lIGnbKQ/U8yAYF9SoxI/AAAAAAAAKDg/Ru_chkXla8w/s1600-h/DSC_63744.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6374" border="0" alt="DSC_6374" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--E_6_u0K81s/U8yAaMVpkvI/AAAAAAAAKDo/tdflHJ0ZTF4/DSC_6374_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gkbBtKZ1W20/U8yAb5-KwYI/AAAAAAAAKDw/8dGinYvvdfc/s1600-h/DSC_63733.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6373" border="0" alt="DSC_6373" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t8QXTPOUL4Y/U8yAdNgoZEI/AAAAAAAAKD0/i2iDbH1bvc0/DSC_6373_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">While in Raiatea last time we’d discovered a gorgeous anchorage south of the main town beside an immaculately kept motu. We returned and this time visited the pearl farm run by PeeWee…a friendly local we’d bought pearls from last visit. PeeWee lives on a small houseboat anchored in the lagoon leading a very basic and simple lifestyle. It was amazing to see the delicate work involved in opening the oyster and inserting a tiny seed around which the classic black Tahitian pearl forms. It takes 18 months to two years for a pearl to grow and each oyster can produce three pearls in its lifetime.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6Cw4Zo387fA/U8yAe3uE8OI/AAAAAAAAKEA/rajCSD4LwOU/s1600-h/DSC_623813.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6238" border="0" alt="DSC_6238" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uZYzPus83Bo/U8yAgbvDvxI/AAAAAAAAKEI/S7ht719HweM/DSC_6238_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3PFg7iudJ4o/U8yAiu7saXI/AAAAAAAAKEQ/Fo-1UtVUCuk/s1600-h/DSC_63789.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6378" border="0" alt="DSC_6378" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3q0Bu7LeA2k/U8yAj0oXncI/AAAAAAAAKEY/HOYyd0jYOWU/DSC_6378_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FltFVW-Vj2o/U8yAl4PebyI/AAAAAAAAKEg/rO_AfY6XK9c/s1600-h/DSC_579810.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5798" border="0" alt="DSC_5798" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-be_GfZI_JQA/U8yAmufcZpI/AAAAAAAAKEo/t98gxFAPQnw/DSC_5798_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="160"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">After a night in this lovely anchorage and birthday drinks on fellow Kiwi boat Moxie we headed down around the bottom of Raiatea enjoying some remote and serene anchorages before picking the right wind for a lovely sail across to Bora Bora. Best part was hooking and landing a huge mahimahi which proved to be a team effort. Our previous attempts had resulted in the fish throwing the hook but this time we made sure and have the photographic evidence to prove it! </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bFvZpavbW5Q/U8yAplNO_5I/AAAAAAAAKEw/p2z9x2BSgNw/s1600-h/DSC_64239.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6423" border="0" alt="DSC_6423" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RTVA82AN5eI/U8yArPbA6JI/AAAAAAAAKE4/mIJG61l_8i0/DSC_6423_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="484"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-3684112216357002992014-07-11T03:28:00.001+01:002014-07-11T03:34:12.012+01:00Paradise lost<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Okay, so we will probably cop a bit of flak for saying this but we were totally underwhelmed by the haunt of the rich and famous – the (once) exquisite Bora Bora. Yes, it is scenically spectacular with astonishing jagged peaks, turquoise lagoons and stunning sandy white beaches but there’s also a lot not to like about this (in our opinion) overrated, overpriced and overcrowded French Polynesian island. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HdLkZAsExGc/U79LTu0OiiI/AAAAAAAAJ8Y/i_nogosLmP8/s1600-h/IMG_08777.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0877" border="0" alt="IMG_0877" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-V8Dz3vZmBpk/U79LUuhYDXI/AAAAAAAAJ8g/HTptUs1JW7M/IMG_0877_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">As soon as we entered the pass the water became milky and visibility for snorkelling was poor. Abandoned resorts dot the waterfront and at one, the once proud and fabulous Hotel Bora Bora, we were given the short shift…not even in a nice manner. We had only wanted to go ashore as David had holidayed there as a teenager in 1972 and returned by yacht in 1993 and was keen to reminisce. There were only a couple of hotels in ‘72, few cars and wonderful snorkelling. He found that had all changed with rampant overdevelopment seemingly without any thought to the fragile ecology and a total lack of infrastructure. The brochures describe Bora Bora as the friendly island – not for us. We were also escorted from the grounds of the Hilton Bora Bora after going ashore for a drink. <font face="Comic Sans MS">To top things off a boat moored near us off the main town had three fishing rods stolen overnight. We’d heard petty theft was rampant but it was disappointing to experience it close hand. So sorry Bora Bora - you get the thumbs down.</font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-l44S2rpByP0/U79LV4MUfqI/AAAAAAAAJ8o/iIprSrUAGBs/s1600-h/DSC_61594.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6159" border="0" alt="DSC_6159" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jdbe74GzhW4/U79LWjNc0MI/AAAAAAAAJ8w/92Z0dw3liD0/DSC_6159_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></font><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9hEN9qlzY4s/U79LX_jEQPI/AAAAAAAAJ84/kjUOe3aTGF4/s1600-h/DSC_6152.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6152" border="0" alt="DSC_6152" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xINAfOXPI1o/U79LYghWCHI/AAAAAAAAJ9A/GQP4973nCRo/DSC_6152_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Now to the good bits…and there were a few. We were there with Blenheim friends Chick and Pete Anderson and so we had lots of laughs and (thanks to Chick) some wonderful meals on board including barbecued duck and tuna tartare. We also had a fun lunch at the fantastic Bloody Mary’s restaurant compliments of the Andersons. Fellow sailor Per Rold told us we simply must go there – so we did and it was wonderful. Great ambience, friendly staff and, of course, great Bloody Mary’s. The burgers weren’t too bad either.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oQYwoFVAAYw/U79LaYKXSsI/AAAAAAAAJ9I/PIeCyeLRczI/s1600-h/DSC_61889.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6188" border="0" alt="DSC_6188" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NB869erYICk/U79Lbp5brZI/AAAAAAAAJ9Q/TjaG7ijRgyc/DSC_6188_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X68adSOodsM/U79LdPcOcGI/AAAAAAAAJ9Y/oA__Fj78a7M/s1600-h/DSC_618910.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6189" border="0" alt="DSC_6189" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ze_ncsK5GG8/U79LeHIGphI/AAAAAAAAJ9g/REtJ9bRMEr4/DSC_6189_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--fJ2wjN8qgg/U79LfkrEqwI/AAAAAAAAJ9o/2riiSbxfSCg/s1600-h/IMG_08516.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0851" border="0" alt="IMG_0851" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_uauRGT8GYg/U79Lge9qHCI/AAAAAAAAJ9w/9IT5QdvqWoE/IMG_0851_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-obTO4cuejzI/U79Lhz9OFFI/AAAAAAAAJ94/SxkLkcSo3Tc/s1600-h/IMG_087010.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0870" border="0" alt="IMG_0870" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8IhOwLMYpfQ/U79Li-ZqMQI/AAAAAAAAJ-A/E7N5WGseMxM/IMG_0870_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="472" height="404"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">But before we could indulge in the burgers and fries we had to earn it – so a hike to the top of the hill was in order. Heart rates were up, leg muscles ached and magnificent views were had by all. Back on board we had a swim and a scrub up before heading ashore to the wonderfully atmospheric Bloody Mary’s.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4fbwXV-4wm4/U79LkTLbdSI/AAAAAAAAJ-I/1TnR35K3TrU/s1600-h/DSC_617110.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6171" border="0" alt="DSC_6171" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MT5W7B-s9Aw/U79LlFGfMvI/AAAAAAAAJ-Q/2-k6Z6V70QQ/DSC_6171_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9kB9r0EmUa0/U79LmE6frEI/AAAAAAAAJ-Y/NoFLjMQRpNg/s1600-h/DSC_61728.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6172" border="0" alt="DSC_6172" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Nbc0dRyg9o0/U79LnKH-YKI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/_J36n33FvCM/DSC_6172_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CG817TWA9Zo/U79Log6QewI/AAAAAAAAJ-o/rf-sK9bJKdE/s1600-h/DSC_61677.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6167" border="0" alt="DSC_6167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fHUU95OaZr4/U79LpoDyRMI/AAAAAAAAJ-w/fMbzNtffhQc/DSC_6167_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="190"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qKGNl5OSAYk/U79LqlS_axI/AAAAAAAAJ-4/XvBuTbnSS7w/s1600-h/DSC_61758.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6175" border="0" alt="DSC_6175" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_EEjBC9dVX8/U79LreO15HI/AAAAAAAAJ_A/wzfjR-FGadw/DSC_6175_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a look in one of the pearl shops near Bloody Mary’s and I handled the most perfect pearl necklace we’ve seen yet – and we’ve done a lot of looking. The US$70,000 price tag was a bit daunting but they were absolutely beautiful. <font face="Comic Sans MS">Our time in Bora Bora was brief as we plan to return later in the month. With good winds we headed back to Taha’a where we had a magic snorkel on the coral garden. All too soon it was time to drop Pete and Chick off in Raiatea for their flight to Papeete and NZ. A fantastic time with wonderfully generous and kind friends. Thanks Pete and Chick!</font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O-_B1CVwCT8/U79LsWkX4EI/AAAAAAAAJ_I/qDHeYrYZ_6M/s1600-h/DSC_61795.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6179" border="0" alt="DSC_6179" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lCFW8i5Xdos/U79LuOaT-KI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/KeFboT3v-J4/DSC_6179_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gu2R43bcvuE/U79LxZJky4I/AAAAAAAAJ_Y/CyWw9_ENS_0/s1600-h/DSC_61833.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6183" border="0" alt="DSC_6183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7SI-PVOzhFM/U79LyUBWAMI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/EI3V_Mzk_cE/DSC_6183_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-feHusedE5Aw/U79L0GG6I7I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/ikZvfHUUwUM/s1600-h/IMG_08797.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0879" border="0" alt="IMG_0879" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wx3g-Ti957Q/U79L1K9CRII/AAAAAAAAJ_w/hE_7bwwNSho/IMG_0879_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-60079526161308091742014-07-11T03:20:00.001+01:002014-07-11T03:28:20.299+01:00The gorgeous Garden of Eden<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Huahine is the French Polynesian island overlooked by most tourists – at least that’s what it felt like to us. The main town of Fare is a lovely sleepy spot with only its city sized supermarket indicating greater things. It was almost as big and probably better than Papeete’s Carrefour and was a fantastic place to buy fresh tuna – especially given that our efforts at fishing on the overnight sail from Moorea had been fruitless. We hooked a huge mahimahi at sunset (our favourite time to fish) only to see it lost to a shark. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mT66l75rAis/U7sj3AuPkAI/AAAAAAAAJ5c/1q-dtzrbGis/s1600-h/DSC_6150%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6150" border="0" alt="DSC_6150" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yQ6oNjR10rI/U7sj800eL3I/AAAAAAAAJ5k/w1XoK6h44eo/DSC_6150_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="322"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">With friends Chick and Pete Anderson on board we were keen to eat as much fresh fish as possible…luckily fresh tuna is readily available and dirt cheap here – $8 kg. Chick is a fantastic cook so we were completely spoilt and have feasted on tuna tartare with olive oil and capers, tuna in fresh coconut milk with lime and coriander, seared with sesame seeds and delicious barbecued tuna. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XQ31XKFeVWo/U79JabRYZPI/AAAAAAAAJ50/TlZ4IejaiUU/s1600-h/DSC_611610.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6116" border="0" alt="DSC_6116" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4LmjzeR6HPI/U79Jb73sWnI/AAAAAAAAJ58/WEHXKliHFi8/DSC_6116_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We headed to the south west of Huahine to the gorgeous Baie Avea – a safe anchorage to shelter from forecast bad weather. It was calm and idyllic with just a few other cruising boats. The resort ashore seemed very quiet – unlike the bustling ones in Papeete and Moorea – and with low key beachfront bungalows rather than overwater burres. It was a great spot to have sundowners on the sandy beach with fellow cruisers The Southern Cross, Outsider, Island Fling, Bangarang and La Rochelle. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Zb7Cxe4TKjA/U79JdSgCPiI/AAAAAAAAJ6E/Kj8CffTUTpw/s1600-h/DSC_61333.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6133" border="0" alt="DSC_6133" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RMk8KR3qbrY/U79JeUdtW5I/AAAAAAAAJ6M/f0zkQRCws14/DSC_6133_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UGJrujPoMgA/U79JgRl-VJI/AAAAAAAAJ6U/W_83DjPcX6A/s1600-h/DSC_613012.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6130" border="0" alt="DSC_6130" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fS214X_IQ0M/U79Jhd2AKnI/AAAAAAAAJ6c/rG_b4PvPMuE/DSC_6130_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0u86Uo-XzhM/U79JjuPWGNI/AAAAAAAAJ6k/xfrxCuYEb30/s1600-h/DSC_61273.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6127" border="0" alt="DSC_6127" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2JypYlVgsQY/U79Jly0qt5I/AAAAAAAAJ6s/wesHIKGr3h0/DSC_6127_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Baie Avea was a good place to sit out the low that resulted in a few hours of torrential rain. We filled our water tanks in minutes and managed to give the decks a good scrub. The wonderful thing about French Polynesia is there is little change in temperature…even when it’s cloudy and wet it’s still warm. We enjoyed some magical snorkelling spotting lots of “nemo” (clown fish) hiding in the anemones. Some arm twisting resulted in David taking the bikes ashore and we had some lovely rides. Huahine is called the Garden of Eden for good reason; the vegetation ashore is lush with tropical fruit and flowers everywhere – mango, banana, pineapple, breadfruit, hibiscus, frangipani and of course, the ubiquitous coconut palm.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YnE5l9TtNYI/U79JnzoJGTI/AAAAAAAAJ60/3yVSDd4yFvo/s1600-h/DSC_611911.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6119" border="0" alt="DSC_6119" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oGhjAs8VwPo/U79Jo0yaQRI/AAAAAAAAJ68/Kmp1qb1lqtA/DSC_6119_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--mBabenEadU/U79Jq5n2V_I/AAAAAAAAJ7E/OewPOeYq5-E/s1600-h/DSC_61257.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6125" border="0" alt="DSC_6125" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H0-YE1OISoc/U79Jr_Y7XSI/AAAAAAAAJ7M/VZKOKrfoBRY/DSC_6125_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CYvoFzU7A5c/U79JtoT_jcI/AAAAAAAAJ7U/luDv2f35g2g/s1600-h/DSC_61294.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6129" border="0" alt="DSC_6129" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mqlEw4Y7ljY/U79JuomD9QI/AAAAAAAAJ7c/LTsxnUcmOfs/DSC_6129_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BCC5m6Z8w8s/U79Jvgbg0SI/AAAAAAAAJ7k/X4cN4514WxM/s1600-h/DSC_614510.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6145" border="0" alt="DSC_6145" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jgQeucTx-Q0/U79JwcOx-HI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/rWTY3PcTG6k/DSC_6145_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="344"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-99i61wFAKfA/U79JxWl0i_I/AAAAAAAAJ70/Hpp2clX8R54/s1600-h/DSC_61419.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6141" border="0" alt="DSC_6141" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wrqhXbr1Bxg/U79JycXmrlI/AAAAAAAAJ78/BOW3ly_ryBI/DSC_6141_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="340"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Once the weather lifted we headed back up to Fare stopping for a snorkel on the way. In Fare we went to happy hour at the waterfront bar and met up with Outsider for a good strong rum punch then opted to dine local style at the roulottes. Roulottes are caravans on the street where locals serve up all manner of dishes. We opted for fish and the plate came piled high with frites on top of which sat three huge tuna steaks. Digging around underneath we found delicious poisson cru and potato salad. It was a fine feast and a fitting way to end our time in Huahine. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Next day we set out for Taha’a and caught up with friends Chris and Sara for a fun dinner on their catamaran Tulu. Our stay on Taha’a was brief (we plan to return) as a good northerly breeze came up. With BoraBora beckoning we took advantage of it to head there.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oykh1KGnStQ/U79JzxXOOHI/AAAAAAAAJ8E/YPG5s0sHmzw/s1600-h/DSC_62147.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6214" border="0" alt="DSC_6214" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1WC_kgVJeiE/U79J0y55BzI/AAAAAAAAJ8M/x9C9G7nMGv8/DSC_6214_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-58777582702688368302014-06-28T03:21:00.001+01:002014-06-28T03:25:06.576+01:00Fun with family and friends<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a fantastic “bikinis and martinis” time with David’s eldest daughter Charlotte and her husband Colin in Tahiti and Moorea. They flew out of Papeete excited about seeing Harry (4) and Edie (3) – who they’d left in Nelson with willing grandparents – but sad their holiday was over so quickly. It’s always extra special having our children on board – we only wish they could come more often!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5GQnzl8RDmg/U64l29SnwiI/AAAAAAAAJ1U/srkCw12X2lU/s1600-h/DSC_60617.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6061" border="0" alt="DSC_6061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-o8w48YkkwoY/U64l4MFUwxI/AAAAAAAAJ1c/VuholBDBMH0/DSC_6061_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sxS4sd7B6Cc/U64l6eE_V8I/AAAAAAAAJ1k/EnnvUpBwQuo/s1600-h/DSC_60477.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6047" border="0" alt="DSC_6047" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dCETDWRu3dk/U64l7bi8UcI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/AYXB5_8jYHU/DSC_6047_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d-lMmb2Df2Q/U64l9kDZfUI/AAAAAAAAJ10/gVXM06kLq40/s1600-h/DSC_60495.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6049" border="0" alt="DSC_6049" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DaQQLPkhu4c/U64l-hprlgI/AAAAAAAAJ18/L2lzJZWuXFo/DSC_6049_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VgBue3xxnLk/U64l_zcOf-I/AAAAAAAAJ2E/EOmABWzYW6o/s1600-h/IMG_07273.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0727" border="0" alt="IMG_0727" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Sui7Y8p1dAs/U64mBFlExLI/AAAAAAAAJ2M/4tmVym9upDU/IMG_0727_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="326"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">As always, when we have friends and family on board our day to day lives take a backseat – we certainly don’t want to be doing engine oil changes, scrubbing decks or steaming up the galley bottling fruit. We always emphasize to visitors that they tend to see our world through rose tinted spectacles. When we’re on our own we get back to normal routine which does involve engine maintenance, boat cleaning and filling the store cupboard! I was flying to NZ on the same flight as Charlotte and Colin to visit family so left David to get Bandit back in work mode. Auckland was wet, windy and wild (as was Tahiti when we flew out) but it was wonderful to catch up with my mum, sister, niece and absolutely gorgeous great niece Ella.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h2D0LnQF-W8/U64mCqdZsFI/AAAAAAAAJ2U/GRfwwpIRAIg/s1600-h/IMG_07453.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0745" border="0" alt="IMG_0745" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CDacFlGBgDg/U64mDRr8HXI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/pitIUwTqBc8/IMG_0745_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-f-Hl2WbQB-4/U64mE1jmXeI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/ie9OHUBmBpo/s1600-h/IMG_07814.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0781" border="0" alt="IMG_0781" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Akx9OvBoxXg/U64mFzpZFGI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/fOt6XASCflw/IMG_0781_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3HoxMaPyvfc/U64mHXUhqaI/AAAAAAAAJ20/OcBDdUCmIbE/s1600-h/IMG_07669.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0766" border="0" alt="IMG_0766" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AMxoZvDnGf0/U64mIrNtkjI/AAAAAAAAJ28/LkYkbeGLvRw/IMG_0766_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="331"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">All too soon it was time to head back to Tahiti and, coincidentally, our next visitors Chick and Pete Anderson were on the same flight. It was fantastic to be their guest in the Koru Club. I had three seats to myself on the flight so, thanks to the Koru bubbly, snoozed all the way. Back on Bandit it was great to see David had varnished the table between showers (yes it rains here) and done all sorts of other jobs. Chick and Pete helped to provision Bandit, in anticipation of their stay, then headed off to Moorea for a week in a resort.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wJb12VuP5W4/U64mKqorbbI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/8tNNAPaNodI/s1600-h/DSC_61033.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6103" border="0" alt="DSC_6103" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mh7HGrJT-MM/U64mMH8Ed9I/AAAAAAAAJ3M/GmxT55jdY8k/DSC_6103_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eR2u2nfgfM4/U64mOBLr_II/AAAAAAAAJ3U/9zJHQwNx1L0/s1600-h/IMG_07872.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0787" border="0" alt="IMG_0787" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TUhdfz0pWKU/U64mPv4A9AI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/8IGWCzCHKE4/IMG_0787_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9spZf99bG2c/U64mThLGoJI/AAAAAAAAJ3k/_dAcP6YhfFM/s1600-h/IMG_07902.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0790" border="0" alt="IMG_0790" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jw-F2PXXLYA/U64mUu-xQtI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/5dGJ3uhH5kE/IMG_0790_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="173"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--rv9BR-bCnE/U64mWfeBZhI/AAAAAAAAJ30/pdUofYF002M/s1600-h/DSC_61078.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6107" border="0" alt="DSC_6107" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IrOYGSFq7Zk/U64mXZoPhnI/AAAAAAAAJ38/OcKI7mf18TI/DSC_6107_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OA7brG54UlY/U64mYt8aTdI/AAAAAAAAJ4E/t9zRm8TWRXc/s1600-h/DSC_60922.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6092" border="0" alt="DSC_6092" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-V4j23CXYf6Q/U64mZf133XI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/NGiVjB1X-w0/DSC_6092_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a></font><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">After finishing chores we headed to Moorea and spent time in Cook’s Bay and nearby Robinson Cove where Captain Cook anchored Endeavour. It was interesting to think that within five months (all going well) we’ll be anchored in Ship Cove in the Marlborough Sounds…another favourite haunt of Cook’s. Away from the hustle and bustle of Papeete we discovered a much more laidback French Polynesian atmosphere on Moorea with quiet roads and tiny villages. Friendly locals broke away from their games of boules to happily pick breadfruit off their trees for us. The spectacular peaks of Moorea beckoned so we set off for a hike through the lush valley but have to admit it was too hot to get too far. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dQTK0M4QvCo/U64mbwiblLI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/T3NvJl822ak/s1600-h/DSC_60749.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6074" border="0" alt="DSC_6074" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5YUcucV0YmQ/U64mcyBjH7I/AAAAAAAAJ4c/oDHD3k6cI5o/DSC_6074_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="338"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Before leaving Moorea we had one final visit to Opunahu Bay to let Chick and Pete feed the stingrays and swim with the black tipped reef sharks. With gentle winds we headed off from Moorea to Huahine late afternoon for an uneventful and slow sail to Huahine. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Ae8maUyUZo/U64mgQszTCI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/YCE4BZY7em8/s1600-h/IMG_08398.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0839" border="0" alt="IMG_0839" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jqIaxqJqybs/U64miPVM2oI/AAAAAAAAJ4s/T4bGLN9dEFg/IMG_0839_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="390"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-02XJ1w2f1Mc/U64mkwb3n0I/AAAAAAAAJ40/6R4UXBbX4rY/s1600-h/IMG_083311.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0833" border="0" alt="IMG_0833" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YgJdvKClrv0/U64ml7xM6pI/AAAAAAAAJ48/kYLGAy1FUXY/IMG_0833_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zsXNwgZD5Ng/U64mnlCj9cI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/B0nLSofQXaI/s1600-h/IMG_08318.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0831" border="0" alt="IMG_0831" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eTtNGZla0tc/U64mo7Wzx-I/AAAAAAAAJ5M/rtWYDvJPabg/IMG_0831_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-85215666629182279002014-06-08T07:13:00.001+01:002014-06-08T07:13:51.656+01:00Magnificent Moorea<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We’d overcome our fear of sharks in Fakarava, swum alongside a whale shark in Honduras and snorkelled with sea lions and turtles in the Galapagos. There was another marine creature to get up close and personal with and that opportunity came in Moorea. Never did we think we would be able to handle and even feed stingrays but in Opunohu Bay in the north of Moorea a dozen or more friendly and well fed stingrays and sharks allow snorkellers to get really close. Amazingly, stingray skin is very soft – like chamois – and they are incredibly gentle, inquisitive and, seemingly, intelligent creatures.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jAZvA6LjiVg/U5PloZqq8nI/AAAAAAAAJl8/Tkq97pkAk6A/s1600-h/IMG_06453.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0645" border="0" alt="IMG_0645" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8DOO9XAJHek/U5PltIRdajI/AAAAAAAAJmE/AMS64wwEgpY/IMG_0645_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="484"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We’d arrived in Tahiti after a 37 hour passage from Toau Atoll in the Tuamotos. The highlight of our arrival in Tahiti was the visit of David’s eldest daughter Charlotte and her husband Colin. Another highlight - and one many cruisers talked about for days – was visiting the gigantic French supermarket Carrefour. This</font><font face="Comic Sans MS"> was a real treat after months of trading with locals, buying from local markets or buying in supermarkets with limited stock. The size of Carrefour and array of goods available was a bit overwhelming at first but we managed just fine quickly filling a large trolley with supplies! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xWHb-9xFNsU/U5P8aZkvm0I/AAAAAAAAJrM/I_nh--2hBCc/s1600-h/IMG_063714.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0637" border="0" alt="IMG_0637" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Uwsj7lcuuxY/U5P8iliBOsI/AAAAAAAAJrU/3PflFmljXmQ/IMG_0637_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="369"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Charlotte is the last of our five children to visit Bandit so it was a very happy dad who greeted her in traditional style with a fragrant frangipani lei at Papeete Airport. We didn’t linger in Tahiti, heading straight over to Moorea. Charlotte is a keen sailor and Colin an enthusiastic novice so they were delighted to be on board and the weather Gods duly obliged with some fresh breezes to sail in.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Cb1p2FTKSGc/U5P8xPDcbFI/AAAAAAAAJrc/pXO0R2wztas/s1600-h/DSC_603614.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6036" border="0" alt="DSC_6036" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GHHYcvPfkS4/U5P81D0fJLI/AAAAAAAAJrk/KNNPi7U_l70/DSC_6036_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Tfj9WdXM3jE/U5P872pFntI/AAAAAAAAJrs/Wh5kHQFgRDE/s1600-h/DSC_59617.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5961" border="0" alt="DSC_5961" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EZypC8ERguw/U5P89H3tYaI/AAAAAAAAJr0/tcFHf10ljmk/DSC_5961_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XL6Z_X98iBY/U5P9AlA797I/AAAAAAAAJr8/rAOo4x4annU/s1600-h/DSC_59879.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5987" border="0" alt="DSC_5987" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-g9Z7ExApiG8/U5P9B0PJVRI/AAAAAAAAJsE/OMPpKu0pDSA/DSC_5987_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="232" height="169"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nm3wiIin7hc/U5P9GdOUviI/AAAAAAAAJsM/Qp79xTG1CfA/s1600-h/DSC_60333.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6033" border="0" alt="DSC_6033" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KyDMqGJq2xg/U5P9IeZk4LI/AAAAAAAAJsU/-ybAZ0KYpMw/DSC_6033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I1MebrGmroI/U5P9PvmwG2I/AAAAAAAAJsc/j--Qn4ag3e8/s1600-h/DSC_60391.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6039" border="0" alt="DSC_6039" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sklhd_OX9F8/U5P9RT42A1I/AAAAAAAAJsk/0_TN-UWwWCQ/DSC_6039_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tO7PNCk7nQY/U5P9Xi5Yi2I/AAAAAAAAJss/JHShrBrhCaQ/s1600-h/DSC_59849.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5984" border="0" alt="DSC_5984" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WW8G-kGpolg/U5P9bMU-FnI/AAAAAAAAJs0/pAQpXljZCgY/DSC_5984_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="415"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a couple of brilliant days at the top of Moorea in both Cook’s Bay and nearby Opunohu. Charlotte and Colin rented a scooter in Cook’s Bay and circumnavigated the island…all 65kms of it. All four of us explored the luxurious surroundings of the Hilton Hotel- us just wandering around admiring the facilities and overwater bungalows while Charz and Colin headed up for a traditional Tahitian cocktail at sunset. English friends Chris and Sara from Tulu were in Cook’s Bay along with Australians Ian and Wendy from Outsider and we had a fun night on board Tulu who, once again, were magnificent hosts. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cgZMAGACMRk/U5P9k1B4B6I/AAAAAAAAJs8/r_ynYKukyMM/s1600-h/IMG_066612.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0666" border="0" alt="IMG_0666" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WqBqZT7CiKQ/U5P9pQdTxxI/AAAAAAAAJtE/88tp_y90itA/IMG_0666_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q6fcXoH_JJI/U5P97_HKbTI/AAAAAAAAJtM/DM9ag4kwJfk/s1600-h/IMG_06539.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0653" border="0" alt="IMG_0653" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3Q61tJN22hA/U5P9-EgISWI/AAAAAAAAJtU/7kdaQr9JK00/IMG_0653_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="183"></a></font><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Bjmjdyxa3pE/U5P-Gq30eWI/AAAAAAAAJtc/YBbdsqqe9mY/s1600-h/IMG_06577.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0657" border="0" alt="IMG_0657" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tueGzPcKE2A/U5P-JmyDeSI/AAAAAAAAJtk/ExYH7sVgo10/IMG_0657_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Yf6asRnwnzU/U5P-QQUzFyI/AAAAAAAAJts/p0jlvKtoeC0/s1600-h/IMG_06655.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0665" border="0" alt="IMG_0665" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fb5N4OIL0S4/U5P-TTuXurI/AAAAAAAAJt0/pRn2Oh5PBIE/IMG_0665_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="381"></a></font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The rest of heart shaped Moorea beckoned so we headed off to circumnavigate stopping at two gorgeous anchorages on the way – Matauvau and Point Tipae. These were much quieter than the busy northern bays and in beautiful and remote Point Tipae we were the only boat. The snorkelling off the tiny island of Matu-ahi was fantastic with some of the most colourful clams, fish and coral we’d seen. Each afternoon we enjoyed walks ashore through local villages where it felt like few tourists ventured. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3LTpVFMDbQM/U5P-WunCs6I/AAAAAAAAJt8/oBzLmlo9ahI/s1600-h/DSC_60052.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6005" border="0" alt="DSC_6005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pCqqhIW96zQ/U5P-ZGZ_dMI/AAAAAAAAJuE/EXBYzoqj54A/DSC_6005_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BdV6ZwRXv5U/U5P-bmX-h2I/AAAAAAAAJuM/jloG7L5INQs/s1600-h/DSC_6032.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6032" border="0" alt="DSC_6032" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7PoIBxfKYgU/U5P-c6JLtXI/AAAAAAAAJuU/79mcNJFuXRw/DSC_6032_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xc-DhEue_cg/U5P-g4qteJI/AAAAAAAAJuc/KkLC-uciFuU/s1600-h/bandit-from-mast3.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bandit from mast" border="0" alt="bandit from mast" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uLdIWQKWJ0k/U5P-i2vMYII/AAAAAAAAJuk/9Dk-udtFliU/bandit-from-mast_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="366"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Charlotte and Colin were keen to see as much as possible during their 10 day stay and so we headed back to the south east coast of Tahiti to another remote and quiet anchorage. Few boats cruise this coast and once again we had a lovely spot to ourselves with the Maraa Grotto and gardens ashore. The next day was gloomy so some land based exploring was on the cards and while Charlotte and Colin bussed to the south of Tahiti and back to Papeete, we took Bandit to the anchorage off Taina Marina and met them there. On the way we motored through a massive boil up of tuna and despite towing two lures, were unable to hook one.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z03wp-qabKc/U5P-opMdVoI/AAAAAAAAJus/ZAfklZ_Gspk/s1600-h/IMG_066710.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0667" border="0" alt="IMG_0667" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-amEnk3UzxNE/U5P-tA6Nn9I/AAAAAAAAJu0/V55at18RdMU/IMG_0667_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="480" height="398"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X2pxkFel6fg/U5P-0MBI1rI/AAAAAAAAJu8/sPCRFQGJHOU/s1600-h/IMG_06788.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0678" border="0" alt="IMG_0678" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d28KnT5X7AI/U5P-10HIFYI/AAAAAAAAJvE/leYpVZs23lI/IMG_0678_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="238"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8Xe8GjEJewk/U5P-5_9MLCI/AAAAAAAAJvM/GBb2REfKbws/s1600-h/IMG_06829.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0682" border="0" alt="IMG_0682" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lB2ufCdMNO8/U5P-7xeg5VI/AAAAAAAAJvU/uJC12Ajwm-E/IMG_0682_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="234"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B4XaCfC6I58/U5P-_kxruzI/AAAAAAAAJvc/k5beyv59Q2Y/s1600-h/IMG_06711.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0671" border="0" alt="IMG_0671" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gDbW-dmDxU8/U5P_ByoKcXI/AAAAAAAAJvk/mFubAJU0Vz0/IMG_0671_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Next day we headed back to Moorea and spent three days just enjoying beautiful Cook’s Bay and Opunohu again. It seemed to be a congregating spot for cruisers and a heap of us turned up for happy hour and to watch traditional dancing at the Bali Hai Club – a fun night. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">All too soon it was time to head back to Papeete for Charlotte and Colin to head back to Nelson and me to Auckland for a few days with mum. Can’t wait to explore the rest of the Society Islands.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-td2D8PHQR4E/U5P_EYu5PXI/AAAAAAAAJvs/n_aGpj40HJ4/s1600-h/DSC_601111.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_6011" border="0" alt="DSC_6011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9VkAivuhs9g/U5P_GV96fhI/AAAAAAAAJv0/KL-0LLh80Uk/DSC_6011_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="297"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-36807213612184373262014-05-28T20:29:00.001+01:002014-05-28T20:32:22.875+01:00Fabulous Fakarava<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Back in the </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">magnificent Mediterranean we’d often meet cruisers who had already sailed the Pacific. “Just wait until you get there,” they’d say. “It’s magic”. After a few months in the Pacific we’ve realised that paradise really is on our own back doorstep. The Tuamoto atolls we’ve visited have been absolutely exquisite. What they lack in shops (there are few), bars and restaurants (ditto) and cafes (forget it) they more than make up for in remoteness, tranquility and sheer beauty. Hopefully, their remoteness means they will always stay this way. And because they are so difficult to get to, it’s us lucky cruising sailors that really get to enjoy them at our leisure.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z90LCt7SZGM/U4Y3I-_uAeI/AAAAAAAAJg8/OrIDJ5ALHcs/s1600-h/IMG_06034.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0603" border="0" alt="IMG_0603" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q_2C0htyACM/U4Y3LoASSfI/AAAAAAAAJhE/WD4zGkO5Z80/IMG_0603_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7UEiodpEyfY/U4Y3ON4KtWI/AAAAAAAAJhM/GhlD7IlKdj0/s1600-h/IMG_0608.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0608" border="0" alt="IMG_0608" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZzAxiLB0kjw/U4Y3PFenpvI/AAAAAAAAJhU/RGKKzHaZIko/IMG_0608_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="271"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8YMSsb3wJh0/U4Y3STCWxFI/AAAAAAAAJhc/P5nJx0l4958/s1600-h/IMG_0609.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0609" border="0" alt="IMG_0609" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6SkjevaWgLY/U4Y3TRvSKEI/AAAAAAAAJhk/c1Wv4SemvJY/IMG_0609_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="271"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We arrived in Fakarava amidst squalls – the sail across from Kauehi had been fine but as we approached the northern pass we could see black clouds building. The pass is wide and it was, again, a straightforward entry with the ingoing tide giving us a sleigh ride. Any salt splashes were soon washed away with a brief deluge as the squall hit before the bright sunshine returned – a typical day in the Tuamotos. We anchored off the village of Rotoava for a night – enough time to buy baguettes and restock with a few fresh supplies. With story deadlines looming I had to find internet which had been difficult. In Fakarava we found the stunning waterfront Havaki Hotel and I sat on the dock and sent my story and photos – tough place to earn a living! </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Afterwards we headed down the lagoon to find our very own piece of paradise with not another boat in sight – heaven.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nmTlbN9coIY/U4Y3ZJiW5jI/AAAAAAAAJhs/g2OhLwRdxV0/s1600-h/IMG_062315.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0623" border="0" alt="IMG_0623" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xxbYrz5p52E/U4Y3a999A0I/AAAAAAAAJh0/3pBzxM66_n8/IMG_0623_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="383"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F5F8vsq3xf0/U4Y3enAzPpI/AAAAAAAAJh8/yExCb4NmfGU/s1600-h/IMG_0613.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0613" border="0" alt="IMG_0613" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hqvhI7J-mkw/U4Y3f1dvX2I/AAAAAAAAJiE/lD9fnQfW1oE/IMG_0613_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="188"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f91OT2CwqHc/U4Y3pbSFACI/AAAAAAAAJiM/_DlD04HI9ac/s1600-h/DSC_58532.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5853" border="0" alt="DSC_5853" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SVJO8d37PLk/U4Y3q7N7VuI/AAAAAAAAJiU/QZwCG-CgDPI/DSC_5853_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="189"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We spent three days and nights in idyllic remote anchorages, working on Bandit in the mornings (it’s true, the definition of cruising after all is fixing the boat in exotic locations) and enjoying our surroundings in the afternoons. The snorkelling in the crystal clear water was lovely as were the beach walks. The entire coast of Fakarava is dotted with blissful deserted spots like this.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oKyTt-MSyeY/U4Y3w5SRJmI/AAAAAAAAJic/BBKQ-y66M9Q/s1600-h/IMG_06259.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0625" border="0" alt="IMG_0625" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OH1kYG2saQo/U4Y3yz92dtI/AAAAAAAAJik/V4n_HJHIsus/IMG_0625_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Then we moved on to the bottom of the atoll to a heavenly spot called Harifa. Because it is so heavenly there were other boats there but it is a big anchorage and can absorb them. Most of the cruisers we knew so, once again, it was nice to socialise. Best of all there was a waterfront restaurant which had just opened. You had to preorder so the food could be caught!. The friendly hostess Liza served the best poisson cru we’d ever tasted …a huge bowl for $10 made using freshly squeezed coconut and limes. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tM1TLytp2sY/U4Y35bwLmVI/AAAAAAAAJis/UVapw_W9mq8/s1600-h/DSC_58668.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5866" border="0" alt="DSC_5866" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pzjHJ7JLnKA/U4Y370wpV9I/AAAAAAAAJi0/1TUhnblIbpA/DSC_5866_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4m5P95YF2gk/U4Y4BGyNUFI/AAAAAAAAJi8/e8nuSl43hn4/s1600-h/DSC_58594.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5859" border="0" alt="DSC_5859" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1o4pLSwI3zg/U4Y4CAGc5bI/AAAAAAAAJjE/uwisFJPD48Y/DSC_5859_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="200"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hTsN9xocR90/U4Y4InKVXLI/AAAAAAAAJjM/G_sr3Gc2jEA/s1600-h/DSC_58628.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5862" border="0" alt="DSC_5862" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gjne9XJGKNU/U4Y4K73zC4I/AAAAAAAAJjU/cV93USnFx8Q/DSC_5862_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="199"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kxeunwptcSw/U4Y4ON4azoI/AAAAAAAAJjc/l2vLOIOgiLc/s1600-h/DSC_58581.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5858" border="0" alt="DSC_5858" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iNKoe1nO-JM/U4Y4P-HsOPI/AAAAAAAAJjk/z2R0XOPXr48/DSC_5858_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Snorkelling was beckoning so we moved to Tetamanu at the southern pass which has a reputation for world class diving and snorkelling. The pass is notorious for sharks, friendly ones of course. As we anchored Bandit was surrounded by small reef sharks. The water was crystal clear and as we watched fascinated a massive black shape loomed out of the depths. It was definitely not a friendly reef shark. We later found out it was a 17ft tiger shark (identified by divers who went looking for and found it). Anyone who knows anything about sharks will know the tiger is number two on the “dangerous” list after the great white. The tiger was attracted by whale meat – we soon realised we’d anchored close to where locals were cutting up a washed up carcass. Needless to say, we moved further away.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZVV37J8QZW4/U4Y4UExUCRI/AAAAAAAAJjs/MVoc6xQGQCM/s1600-h/DSC_587110.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5871" border="0" alt="DSC_5871" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XJLodHNU8IY/U4Y4WAQMn5I/AAAAAAAAJj0/56YUWp_WtKY/DSC_5871_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UlttJy4vTPI/U4Y4a-hJSJI/AAAAAAAAJj8/21HSM66FJFM/s1600-h/DSC_58812.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5881" border="0" alt="DSC_5881" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SSDaxhfw9sY/U4Y4cuaRhMI/AAAAAAAAJkE/nRby-qpJ11c/DSC_5881_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cJgfjCME5Ss/U4Y4iSZ_VTI/AAAAAAAAJkM/Hn-8hE6x6tE/s1600-h/DSC_58942.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5894" border="0" alt="DSC_5894" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sw1fntCBXAE/U4Y4jaFXp8I/AAAAAAAAJkU/73YMdeONuZw/DSC_5894_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="164"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SopCRFoPeT0/U4Y4m-lS4LI/AAAAAAAAJkc/mOSSY_99_Io/s1600-h/DSC_58845.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5884" border="0" alt="DSC_5884" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Q-bKpQqTdEQ/U4Y4ookHCFI/AAAAAAAAJkk/shqoW3LrZcY/DSC_5884_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Seeing the tiger made us a little wary about snorkelling but the dive school assured us the sharks were well fed…so off we went. We drift snorkelled through the pass at slack tide – keeping a firm grip of the tender so we could leap into it if we saw anything untoward. The snorkel was fantastic – there were so many sharks you couldn’t count them and after a while you (kind of) ignored them…they certainly ignored us. The coral was spectacular and the marine life was astonishing- quite the best snorkelling we’ve ever had. David also did a dive with friends from True Blue and came back ecstatic – once again, seeing dozens of sharks was the highlight.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-24O7UUx6-jo/U4Y4vBWGtHI/AAAAAAAAJks/354jR1ERvgQ/s1600-h/DSC_5905.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5905" border="0" alt="DSC_5905" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AgGVFHi2btI/U4Y4wYw9qgI/AAAAAAAAJk0/aHY3ZDb7tk8/DSC_5905_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-luXF01gHPXE/U4Y41f0nFmI/AAAAAAAAJk8/ZSS_5_2ZCPE/s1600-h/DSC_58864.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5886" border="0" alt="DSC_5886" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-K49xGoYyAYA/U4Y42bhlEkI/AAAAAAAAJlE/we1XrLZMl1w/DSC_5886_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5895" border="0" alt="DSC_5895" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dm2YzBdSeJE/U4Y43ZFq0gI/AAAAAAAAJlM/Z4l0k6lP390/DSC_5895_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9IEVDJoRaow/U4Y48bxuZeI/AAAAAAAAJlU/AgYa8iaX3G4/s1600-h/DSC_59092.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5909" border="0" alt="DSC_5909" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qVdQgqDle94/U4Y49dUli_I/AAAAAAAAJlc/sEnVg7SOB3o/DSC_5909_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="168"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The south pass area is a very remote part of Fakarava. The village of Tetamanu, which years ago was a thriving town, is abandoned and only a few locals live there running the dive shop and resort. What a magic spot for a diving/snorkelling holiday with traditional burres right on the waterfront…you can dive from the deck! It really was a very special place and it was hard to drag ourselves away but we had a deadline in Papeete so with much reluctance we upped anchor and headed away. With winds forecast to be squally we headed up to Amse Anyot in Toau Atoll to sit out the blow. Toau was a wonderful stopover and the friendly Valentina (Liza’s sister) made us very welcome and was delighted to receive some goodies from the Bandit lockers. We dined in fine style on fresh lobster and left with more in the freezer and a bagful of fine pearls. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SY1g0mFR2L0/U4Y5Cv3BrOI/AAAAAAAAJlk/PKFMMNYA8YE/s1600-h/DSC_58999.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5899" border="0" alt="DSC_5899" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gj29Rls_sIs/U4Y5Fb35WRI/AAAAAAAAJls/pGNhOVH33jM/DSC_5899_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-3224575810076848922014-05-28T20:20:00.001+01:002014-05-28T20:32:12.245+01:00Captivating Kauehi<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">If ever there was a perfect Pacific paradise we found it in Kauehi – one of the exquisite atolls in the Tuamoto Archipelago. The 78 Tuamoto atolls encompass an area 1500km long and 600km wide. <font face="Comic Sans MS">Of course the most well known atoll is Mururoa where the French, under Charles de Gaulle, carried out nuclear testing. Between 1966 and 1996 nearly 200 nuclear bombs were detonated there. When you visit these idyllic islands with their pristine waters and coral you realise what a tragedy that was. Three cheers for NZ’s nuclear free status.</font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1cNTPT4xiAc/U4PU0hBRRKI/AAAAAAAAJXg/EPgD4zMLH8Y/s1600-h/DSC_57667.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5766" border="0" alt="DSC_5766" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZXeYGHjlZdM/U4PU5tikSeI/AAAAAAAAJXo/IJTWo_6Fic4/DSC_5766_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">In the days before accurate GPS, the low lying Tuamoto atolls (unlike the steep and rugged Marquesas) were often avoided by sailors due to difficult navigation. Variable currents, sudden storms and poor charting made them hazardous. The well known English yacht Gypsy Moth, sailed around the world by Francis Chichester, famously went aground here a few years ago. It’s not an area to be treated lightly and we approached our first atoll with extreme caution. <font face="Comic Sans MS">Our four day/night sail from the Marquesan island of Ua Pou was lovely with gentle trade winds and flat seas making for some lovely sailing including a great spinnaker run. </font></font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-m4Lbx3F9tBk/U4PVBskeuMI/AAAAAAAAJXw/oQTeRaXr8Is/s1600-h/DSC_57483.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5748" border="0" alt="DSC_5748" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oMOSORhCPqo/U4PVF6wTmtI/AAAAAAAAJX4/KJnWiIkWt8s/DSC_5748_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Many of the Tuamoto atolls have narrow and difficult reef passes so you must get the tides right as there can be strong currents rushing through with associated overfalls and steep waves. We timed our arrival in Kauehi for the morning slack water and it proved to be a straightforward entry through a wide channel – not half as scary as we were anticipating. We then had a lovely sail across the lagoon to the village. English friends Chris and Sarah from catamaran Tulu, who we first met in Panama, were already anchored here and it was great to have a welcoming sundowner on board the capacious Tulu. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O5f1I9oXVOA/U4Y01PCs9GI/AAAAAAAAJck/WCHgV2xl-nw/s1600-h/IMG_05906.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0590" border="0" alt="IMG_0590" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fsc6iM0sg7s/U4Y03Z6pFRI/AAAAAAAAJcs/e9zfCXBA6ro/IMG_0590_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0yJJBFSY2eU/U4PWSwZ11cI/AAAAAAAAJZA/Z76zelO8cKE/s1600-h/DSC_57633.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5763" border="0" alt="DSC_5763" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uCwZAafqH0M/U4PWWL_bSiI/AAAAAAAAJZI/9xPXSnYQ2zI/DSC_5763_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PcDlOjfAmok/U4Y08VcgkYI/AAAAAAAAJc0/Bo28sgIpUw0/s1600-h/DSC_57544.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5754" border="0" alt="DSC_5754" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LrDVqDXVeAI/U4Y09iMukDI/AAAAAAAAJc8/XliG_2qNwIk/DSC_5754_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="239" height="162"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IzW5KjrCOdw/U4PWev2cftI/AAAAAAAAJZQ/74o2oBafq6U/s1600-h/DSC_58353.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5835" border="0" alt="DSC_5835" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4kSixsAN1ys/U4PWigsSYcI/AAAAAAAAJZY/RBO7I8-8sdg/DSC_5835_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sbHPtfibQcg/U4PWyG4JiTI/AAAAAAAAJZg/KW3SAv-uluY/s1600-h/DSC_57873.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5787" border="0" alt="DSC_5787" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9-nAdF0QFM4/U4PW65CFVtI/AAAAAAAAJZo/1SLDtcP7j60/DSC_5787_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Not a lot happens on Kauehi and when we went ashore on Saturday afternoon the town felt very sleepy. Sunday church service seemed to be the week’s highlight so we went along and sat in the beautifully shell and flower decorated church listening to the amazing children’s voices. After church we went for a wander and met Tiaihau, a friendly and welcoming local who just happens to be the mayor, shop owner (there is only one), pearl farmer and coconut grower. He particularly likes Kiwis and quickly and generously invited us and the Tulus to lunch at “Paradise” – his pearl farm along the coast. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QVg9bawBrEs/U4PXGmJX_6I/AAAAAAAAJZw/mB_khz1n2G0/s1600-h/DSC_57701.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5770" border="0" alt="DSC_5770" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ndtaBkhw1_w/U4PXM8flT9I/AAAAAAAAJZ4/1lLTNAIEvd8/DSC_5770_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O3WF-WYIFDY/U4PXX3jD69I/AAAAAAAAJaA/Mg7lZROZV-o/s1600-h/DSC_57713.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5771" border="0" alt="DSC_5771" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xc1QORFfg_o/U4PXbeodSVI/AAAAAAAAJaI/xG_993zM8zU/DSC_5771_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-98Za_yiYw2c/U4PX2EbkRJI/AAAAAAAAJaQ/IvIZqONXEnU/s1600-h/DSC_57722.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5772" border="0" alt="DSC_5772" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BNpxMwcnat4/U4PX8Cnob8I/AAAAAAAAJaY/XT2LCs8ZkbI/DSC_5772_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a great day. Tiaihau, Andrea and translator Gerard looked after us brilliantly. Lunch was chicken and rice. Tiaihau and Gerard also ate pinkish meat from a pot that wasn’t offered to us and, as we’d read that dog is a delicacy here, we were curious. Gerard later admitted that yes, it was dog- we were just pleased it wasn’t offered to us! We finished the day with a look at some of the thousands of black pearls Tiaihau had harvested and picked out a few to buy – he generously boosted that with plenty of free ones.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_zcHH9PRW9I/U4PYMCM496I/AAAAAAAAJag/JfHgunFWvKk/s1600-h/DSC_57972.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5797" border="0" alt="DSC_5797" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9yr0Fjm8UFU/U4Y0_f14edI/AAAAAAAAJdE/81AVyNbA8DM/DSC_5797_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="507" height="335"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ma61CbtHrio/U4Y1C56pSxI/AAAAAAAAJdM/g8eYMvOjAT8/s1600-h/DSC_58204.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5820" border="0" alt="DSC_5820" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-psxfHoxj9v0/U4Y1FfY7tdI/AAAAAAAAJdU/TaNVJzodX28/DSC_5820_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d6M0SSdYBeI/U4Y1IADHatI/AAAAAAAAJdc/jxN8vlVseto/s1600-h/DSC_57986.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5798" border="0" alt="DSC_5798" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Uix5gOmPKn4/U4Y1JMxkGkI/AAAAAAAAJdk/yTql54EwU2g/DSC_5798_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="220" height="174"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">Lots of our cruising friends were arriving in Kauehi and when we told Tiaihau he suggested they might be interested in doing a pearl farm trip. They were. So 20 of us set off on Tiaihau’s truck and had another fantastic day at Paradise. We went out to the farm by boat and snorkelled on the oyster lines before returning for lunch. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1oTauQNw8qc/U4Y1NgoC12I/AAAAAAAAJds/rAqt4tGmziM/s1600-h/DSC_58114.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5811" border="0" alt="DSC_5811" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rhEhcUKUE3Y/U4Y1V_znIzI/AAAAAAAAJd0/nc1ecDuB1pw/DSC_5811_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-opPrXC5tVUk/U4Y1ah9Kf0I/AAAAAAAAJd8/ryi7K5T6UeU/s1600-h/DSC_58173.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5817" border="0" alt="DSC_5817" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wSeEunv1KQg/U4Y1cOsXZkI/AAAAAAAAJeE/CqwPL0yXgGo/DSC_5817_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-E1CA23Qj4tU/U4Y1gFr5fYI/AAAAAAAAJeM/INVkxSuAJRg/s1600-h/DSC_58405.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5840" border="0" alt="DSC_5840" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UziYe8gQXzc/U4Y1hYFCqxI/AAAAAAAAJeU/Niy_J_NUTME/DSC_5840_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EPG231RKPvQ/U4Y1oXRPzdI/AAAAAAAAJec/pjeJR4UaJwE/s1600-h/20140513-Kauehi-A-106.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140513 Kauehi A (10)" border="0" alt="20140513 Kauehi A (10)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WFDHoyOuGRA/U4Y1q-GV4UI/AAAAAAAAJek/XrhrIa76rBY/20140513-Kauehi-A-10_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="287"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It was a working day and the locals were busy removing the coconut meat from the shells – sitting in the hot sun without any shade or even sunglasses! The meat is sent to Tahiti to be processed into coconut oil for cosmetics. The skill these people have in removed the meat quickly and efficiently from the shell is astonishing.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mDMuku-V6CY/U4Y1ylbJ0PI/AAAAAAAAJes/cM5ql9uAqtk/s1600-h/DSC_58292.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5829" border="0" alt="DSC_5829" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Zy7GZ6TiSfo/U4Y12KIpNTI/AAAAAAAAJe0/MBPUXEjZ-2w/DSC_5829_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="471" height="361"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MVo3tRsPCjc/U4Y17g38U5I/AAAAAAAAJe8/x9kBwYulJPY/s1600-h/DSC_5824.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5824" border="0" alt="DSC_5824" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BIG80Npv52U/U4Y19vvFB1I/AAAAAAAAJfE/I3TTyDBi308/DSC_5824_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="239" height="244"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kbhku_2Rfdo/U4Y2Av2BevI/AAAAAAAAJfM/lXVG9TU9el4/s1600-h/DSC_5831.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5831" border="0" alt="DSC_5831" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cpMUyq36ymE/U4Y2Bk3IHHI/AAAAAAAAJfU/l5Pf4i5LkHs/DSC_5831_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="244"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sJURKmhB_FI/U4Y2F9J__QI/AAAAAAAAJfc/LxwhJMZZYX0/s1600-h/DSC_58434.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5843" border="0" alt="DSC_5843" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Lo3Msdk4b6g/U4Y2IHxhiuI/AAAAAAAAJfk/ohYtGgnWS6w/DSC_5843_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="280"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our lunch was in a waterfront shed and as we ate we watched black tipped reef sharks swimming in the shallows. It was a wonderful day and Tiaihau took us back via the airfield which is obviously the pride and joy of the village. Two flights arrive each week bringing fresh baguettes and supplies from Papeete. We left the village adorned with shell necklaces feeling sad at leaving such lovely people but delighted in having formed friendships. </font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FkM_-kwKhEY/U4Y2LV8h5NI/AAAAAAAAJfs/SeWS8riRRRY/s1600-h/IMG_058811.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0588" border="0" alt="IMG_0588" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Xn5bGA54bdo/U4Y2MaKCPbI/AAAAAAAAJf0/pfRG5wYt-c0/IMG_0588_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" height="271"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1J_5IHbzv6c/U4Y2PJnDUEI/AAAAAAAAJf8/OIvWUuNe_yg/s1600-h/IMG_05836.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0583" border="0" alt="IMG_0583" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gYrAFGRfzM0/U4Y2Qg8HsfI/AAAAAAAAJgE/5HTODbCmRDo/IMG_0583_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="278"></a></font></p> <p> </p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font> <font face="Comic Sans MS">We had a lovely sail back across the lagoon to a remote anchorage in the south east corner – it was classic travel brochure material – white sandy beach, turquoise water and swaying palm trees. And not a house in sight. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">We couldn’t wait to get in the water and snorkel and as soon as we did two black tipped reef sharks appeared. Oh well, you have to get used to them….so we ignored them and they ignored us and we went on our way. The snorkelling was fantastic and it was a fitting way to end our amazing time in beautiful Kauehi.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t_cY8LIQNDk/U4Y2T8OTIQI/AAAAAAAAJgM/qMjogoU-jvc/s1600-h/IMG_0593.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0593" border="0" alt="IMG_0593" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9NzCQGZKatM/U4Y2U5gK7iI/AAAAAAAAJgU/Ox9W1N_GNUA/IMG_0593_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="297"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7KmLe4Y63uU/U4Y2ZbUydYI/AAAAAAAAJgc/fZvyQowq8ic/s1600-h/IMG_05923.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0592" border="0" alt="IMG_0592" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CiF2QVLQyVE/U4Y2aiEXg5I/AAAAAAAAJgk/yKdD_wTRHcw/IMG_0592_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="297"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9F20NWJoI-Q/U4Y27EzagjI/AAAAAAAAJgs/sYmTgrnB9EA/s1600-h/DSC_584711.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5847" border="0" alt="DSC_5847" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hUGvKdnWGNk/U4Y29OZXcwI/AAAAAAAAJg0/pPgM5rK1wV4/DSC_5847_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-59670819508915845012014-05-05T04:08:00.001+01:002014-05-05T04:16:15.316+01:00Magical Marquesas<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Entry formalities into French Polynesia at the lovely island of Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas were fast, efficient and relatively painless. The only downside was that non EU sailors must pay a bond, equivalent to a one way airfare home, which causes something of a dilemma because the bond is not necessarily refunded in the currency it’s paid in. Not wanting a fistful of French Polynesian Francs on the day we exit we paid $90 for a bond exemption letter. It is annoying to do so when we have full travel insurance with an evacuation clause and can show a healthy bank balance, but that’s the way they roll here.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bwfe_V_g90A/U2b8qazeslI/AAAAAAAAJRI/JMsVIVaba7c/s1600-h/IMG_05563.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0556" border="0" alt="IMG_0556" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ka0RLBB_aXY/U2b8zr6egTI/AAAAAAAAJRQ/VdPaZCHtZ-s/IMG_0556_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="492" height="387"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AFTe87o4uXA/U2b87u0QncI/AAAAAAAAJRY/XkYabqwRTS0/s1600-h/IMG_05588.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0558" border="0" alt="IMG_0558" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Lgwh-uHYE0g/U2b8-0xSmaI/AAAAAAAAJRg/83CU__cTnfw/IMG_0558_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-55mdS9ObT9M/U2b9GnjoXDI/AAAAAAAAJRo/PTeaUSXMvUA/s1600-h/IMG_05623.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0562" border="0" alt="IMG_0562" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u0m9UZjS95U/U2b9Ig8mXbI/AAAAAAAAJRw/JbrtwJiGE-k/IMG_0562_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-y1EN-qhqF3U/U2b9OBFFAwI/AAAAAAAAJR4/puRs8XgHztY/s1600-h/DSC_57264.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5726" border="0" alt="DSC_5726" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Byw3O0pB-kM/U2b9QifGE-I/AAAAAAAAJSA/uDiAFJ0Xzh0/DSC_5726_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4Sm7f8FN3DE/U2b9X6mMx5I/AAAAAAAAJSI/bJwnWLRpJfk/s1600-h/DSC_57276.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5727" border="0" alt="DSC_5727" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RtDpJivlzhs/U2b9Z4zk2bI/AAAAAAAAJSQ/LWXb6qkOpLg/DSC_5727_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It was wonderful to go ashore, find internet and buy fresh baguettes, brie and pain au chocolate. The anchorage was full of boats we’d met in the Mediterranean, Caribbean or Galapagos so there was a fair bit of socialising – coffee here, drinks there, dinner out – it was absolutely wonderful to catch up with friends after so long at sea. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Finding fresh supplies here can be difficult so when we heard there was an early morning market we made sure the alarm was set for 5am and were ashore not long after. What joy to find bok choy, aubergines, fresh lettuce and tomatoes. A</font><font face="Comic Sans MS">fter a few days we were ready to move on and headed around to Anaho Bay in the north. We’d heard a lot about this bay and it didn’t disappoint – a stunning anchorage with good snorkelling, fantastic hikes and, best of all, dozens of mango trees. We never tire of fresh mangos.</font><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fTGCXxYw-lQ/U2b9fzVDL2I/AAAAAAAAJSY/WLDcQMLdVeo/s1600-h/DSC_56672.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5667" border="0" alt="DSC_5667" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0fQcSWW7wJY/U2b9jLzgXSI/AAAAAAAAJSg/IgO7WzZcKKg/DSC_5667_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="330"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kpqp5k1RYyM/U2b9nViO0sI/AAAAAAAAJSo/WdZwQRN_RH8/s1600-h/DSC_565617.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5656" border="0" alt="DSC_5656" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-G6wzerj8GAM/U2b9pnApopI/AAAAAAAAJSw/XHOmDwVIMYU/DSC_5656_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163"></a><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sZb9zgrs_6U/U2b9ucXNVaI/AAAAAAAAJS4/MpwDpcNxzYc/s1600-h/DSC_5673.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5673" border="0" alt="DSC_5673" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DRDAKA79kX8/U2b9wcTqTTI/AAAAAAAAJTA/CyP7QAOwfhY/DSC_5673_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WxtM5X-e0D8/U2b94FYDc3I/AAAAAAAAJTI/63F94GoaO5E/s1600-h/DSC_568611.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5686" border="0" alt="DSC_5686" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PYCezg6R_cU/U2b98Me1_XI/AAAAAAAAJTQ/9XPXku5WFU4/DSC_5686_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WnPIrfIfjwA/U2b-EMUBOSI/AAAAAAAAJTY/suJ-iO3LiF0/s1600-h/IMG_05763.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0576" border="0" alt="IMG_0576" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ca5haUTJROI/U2b-IY-SODI/AAAAAAAAJTg/gKhRkbN5EW0/IMG_0576_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Nx6_oyixalY/U2b-OgjWUUI/AAAAAAAAJTo/qsWgPOTgvFc/s1600-h/DSC_56778.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5677" border="0" alt="DSC_5677" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ofvz8gSknkE/U2b-Sd-CwmI/AAAAAAAAJTw/QBL4q25E1Ps/DSC_5677_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="219" height="179"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eUM78HRTEfY/U2b-Z73HPSI/AAAAAAAAJT4/W0jsDYVBo-4/s1600-h/IMG_05683.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0568" border="0" alt="IMG_0568" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0TaWwQcvsXQ/U2b-fchw58I/AAAAAAAAJUA/8tRVPHTRsCA/IMG_0568_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">In Anaho we had a wonderful pot luck dinner on board Southern Cross with Scotia – both boats had been on our Magellan SSB Net in the Caribbean for many months. We’d met SC in Panama and again in Galapagos and Fuka Hiva but had to wait until the Marquesas to see the faces behind Scotia’s delightful Scottish accents. While walking ashore we came across a Bulgarian backpacking couple and, as they were headed for the same spot as us – Hakaui - we gave them a ride. With no public transport in these islands they’d found getting around difficult, relying on hitch hiking. It’s nice to share our world with others – and these guys had never sailed before or seen dolphins and we provided both experiences</font>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QposWyW7EFg/U2b-l9EmTdI/AAAAAAAAJUI/btgM7FkWmIw/s1600-h/DSC_56968.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5696" border="0" alt="DSC_5696" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xGTKyTB4sz0/U2b-ptgJnZI/AAAAAAAAJUQ/Hhn-358rbNo/DSC_5696_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZL8A3JyyPHQ/U2b-zpncKOI/AAAAAAAAJUY/T2QqL78nI_4/s1600-h/DSC_56784.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5678" border="0" alt="DSC_5678" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pEf8d0cBX8c/U2b-3FZPgQI/AAAAAAAAJUg/44wDZyJ3ubg/DSC_5678_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="196"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_UwDluXxwaM/U2b_Fwrbp3I/AAAAAAAAJUo/bZACVSaK15M/s1600-h/DSC_57317.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5731" border="0" alt="DSC_5731" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fbGkPNL6FWA/U2b_Jbeh9xI/AAAAAAAAJUw/eVMRoRy5yo4/DSC_5731_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="189"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">In the Marquesas we seemed to move from one spectacular anchorage to another and so it proved the day we arrived in Hakaui in the south. The entrance was quite narrow and once inside the bay opened up with sheer and dramatic cliffs on three sides and a beautiful white sandy beach at the head of the bay. Absolutely stunning. As we made our way in we watched manta rays in the water ahead of us. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AoOfjVR5YUk/U2b_OtwTHLI/AAAAAAAAJU4/6s3Rmwx7IoM/s1600-h/DSC_57045.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5704" border="0" alt="DSC_5704" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OHJ5j0Xzx6c/U2b_SmQU8dI/AAAAAAAAJVA/LzdTcehMCbc/DSC_5704_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OM4JO9cdJN8/U2b_a5WT-NI/AAAAAAAAJVI/t-lPgV4rDS8/s1600-h/DSC_57054.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5705" border="0" alt="DSC_5705" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f3TXt7Ig318/U2b_dEFygRI/AAAAAAAAJVQ/ZLT_J-ySK8M/DSC_5705_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="229"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fStsaV3XNEc/U2b_knIrlaI/AAAAAAAAJVY/RWzeESlcm10/s1600-h/DSC_57309.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5730" border="0" alt="DSC_5730" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZOjBLBTLKtg/U2b_oi0FqkI/AAAAAAAAJVg/VeK0LSUAgFo/DSC_5730_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="233"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HagaK7zmX5U/U2b_vOdqeJI/AAAAAAAAJVo/zaxXittYcpE/s1600-h/DSC_570610.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5706" border="0" alt="DSC_5706" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wy3jYVyB5EI/U2b_xSfFRrI/AAAAAAAAJVw/zCrD2Xi1Zbk/DSC_5706_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="205"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0JFkGSjLBBE/U2b_3svJUKI/AAAAAAAAJV4/fal_G8fhXP4/s1600-h/DSC_57179.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5717" border="0" alt="DSC_5717" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ERhOHkNFhrM/U2b_6E0F3GI/AAAAAAAAJWA/z9cXL8eYKPU/DSC_5717_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="197"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UNQpCGimWKU/U2b__TieWUI/AAAAAAAAJWI/4Xoyki2KnCc/s1600-h/DSC_57094.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5709" border="0" alt="DSC_5709" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jJClPNHWHCU/U2cACjs_ceI/AAAAAAAAJWQ/6JMTvjwtGbs/DSC_5709_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The main attraction here was the hike to the 350m Ahuii Waterfall which went through beautifully manicured and lush tropical gardens before reaching river crossings and rough paths. We’d heard the waterfall was dry so didn’t go all the way but it was a fantastic walk with amazing scenery and the bonus of meeting friendly locals along the way who sold us fruit. We headed back to Bandit with bananas, coconut, papaya, oranges, Tahitian apples, mangos, limes and breadfruit. They don’t seem to grow many vegetables here but we’ve enough fruit on board to ward off scurvy.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IHgpypTCw9Q/U2cAHaiICnI/AAAAAAAAJWY/Jq7MjCO2MhU/s1600-h/DSC_57204.jpg"> <img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5720" border="0" alt="DSC_5720" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RIL0xdwAx0M/U2cAJOoEboI/AAAAAAAAJWg/vQAi6lhFuj0/DSC_5720_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PCtTWzpb2vI/U2cAOeS69BI/AAAAAAAAJWo/niYt9sgWmOk/s1600-h/DSC_572411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5724" border="0" alt="DSC_5724" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_knWtizZkEI/U2cARJZzatI/AAAAAAAAJWw/brwisncBQSQ/DSC_5724_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="302"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SGtedlO3RKA/U2cAWlCC_hI/AAAAAAAAJW4/2CMOOwNL2bo/s1600-h/DSC_571813.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5718" border="0" alt="DSC_5718" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Cy7irMsTiZ4/U2cAa_qrE2I/AAAAAAAAJXA/2NX-u35x0Ow/DSC_5718_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It would be easy to linger here but we only have a three month visa and there are still many miles to cover and lots more to see. With good moon and tides we hope to head away to the Tuamoto Islands in the next few days with vivid memories of the magnificent Marquesas etched in our minds. We’ll stop off at Ua Pou for a night or too en route. Perhaps the best thing about these wonderful islands is that their remoteness means they are off the beaten track and so few tourists, apart from yachties, get here. Avery special place.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5PQgW6J6eHM/U2cAe8x2vaI/AAAAAAAAJXI/DJH_BB7z5G8/s1600-h/DSC_56882.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5688" border="0" alt="DSC_5688" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rMeFRrOyam0/U2cAiN0QqmI/AAAAAAAAJXQ/ry42Vca8VRc/DSC_5688_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-34485309319377947762014-04-28T19:34:00.001+01:002014-04-28T19:36:29.380+01:00Landfall at last….after 20 long days<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">For years we’d looked forward to the Pacific crossing. Everything we’d read or been told about it was favourable. Sailors we met who’d done it talked about calm seas and gentle trade winds. For us however, the passage was marked with boisterous winds and confused seas. It made for an uncomfortable ride and the only place to sleep was on the saloon floor. Preparing meals became an exercise in endurance and showering was an athletic endeavour. Finally,</font><font face="Comic Sans MS"> 20 days after setting sail from San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands, we arrived at Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas. The rough passage was soon forgotten as we absorbed the beauty of the spectacular anchorage of Hanavave with its mist shrouded jagged peaks and lush vegetation.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ifquJ1P1ebk/U16cURRUCsI/AAAAAAAAJLg/4rR27OEIPIQ/s1600-h/DSC_558613.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5586" border="0" alt="DSC_5586" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QnvllM1HjcQ/U16cXacYl1I/AAAAAAAAJLo/EETjK6I4rdE/DSC_5586_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Calculations early in the passage had us arriving in Fatu Hiva for Easter but, as luck would have it, after blowing hard and fast for weeks the breeze lightened four days out. Our speed dropped from consistent 7-8knots down to 3-4 and our daily runs plummeted from a high of 193nm to 130. We debated motoring to get there but having sailed the entire way across the Atlantic we weren’t about to let a delay of a day or so spoil our record, so sail we did. It was agonisingly slow and very frustrating. The island of Fatu Hiva appeared on the horizon late on Easter Sunday and we had a lovely moonlit drift up the coast reaching the anchorage at first light on Easter Monday.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0SkX-llQu5A/U16ca95W1qI/AAAAAAAAJLw/Zn2urCJJoy0/s1600-h/DSC_56359.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5635" border="0" alt="DSC_5635" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IJugBfjhcu0/U16cdjrNPGI/AAAAAAAAJL4/sl4QSZRcXz4/DSC_5635_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We dropped the anchor at 6am after receiving a warm welcome from Peter and Catherine on Southern Cross who we left Cristobal with. Yes…they beat us (damn these fast catamarans) but it was lovely to have a welcoming committee! First up…sleep…then on to the arduous task of removing the gooseneck barnacles and brown beard that Bandit had developed during the crossing. We left Panama with a freshly polished shiny boat and it was depressing to see the mess but everyone had the same problem. No willing Haitian workers here so we attacked it ourselves - it took plenty of elbow grease!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5y04I4LipGI/U16cgC3iA7I/AAAAAAAAJMA/FyjhiNtp9I8/DSC_559213.jpg?imgmax=800"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5592" border="0" alt="DSC_5592" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6jO1cCvxGh0/U16ci9lf_gI/AAAAAAAAJMI/ZQdyikx4kkU/DSC_5592_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="220" height="244"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xvLdiHyk1wY/U16cmbkd9DI/AAAAAAAAJMQ/S8zciHnaDjE/s1600-h/DSC_55997.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5599" border="0" alt="DSC_5599" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Zxct3slUJEA/U16cpLQAyQI/AAAAAAAAJMY/HAogoUq3ric/DSC_5599_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="244"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y4RJck9Uwd4/U16csr2GsJI/AAAAAAAAJMg/dsGNr9cFqTk/s1600-h/DSC_55977.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5597" border="0" alt="DSC_5597" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eyO9U9L0Gck/U16cvWZLKzI/AAAAAAAAJMo/zG5fAQfsMlE/DSC_5597_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jUXBUgHxCZc/U16c3R94ahI/AAAAAAAAJMw/GIj9FYtQI00/s1600-h/DSC_56266.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5626" border="0" alt="DSC_5626" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bxdu6kSj4Dk/U16c7sL2yuI/AAAAAAAAJM4/kHU_R1WCXbY/DSC_5626_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Once Bandit was sparkling we headed ashore to check things out, perhaps grab an espresso and check internet at a waterfront cafe. Hmmm…this island is beautifully and wonderfully remote and even though we were keen to make calls home it was refreshingly delightful to find nothing much ashore. As we had no local currency we had to trade with locals for fresh supplies. They are pretty specific about what they want – rum, wine and perfume and they drive a hard bargain. We traded a length of rope, lipstick and nail polish for a stick of green bananas, one breadfruit and three grapefruit. Later we struck a good deal with another local who spied our waterproof bag. These people aren’t shy and he asked us to give it to him. Wild gesticulations (our French is non existent and their English is equally bad) revealed he needed a bag for his rifle so we shot back to Bandit and within an hour we’d whipped up a custom made waterproof rifle bag with velcro closure on our sewing machine. He was thrilled and we walked away with yet more bananas and a backpack full of citrus. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5z86sotnkaA/U16dBgIWEzI/AAAAAAAAJNA/g3slDYzF6tU/s1600-h/DSC_561912.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5619" border="0" alt="DSC_5619" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-p33p-OmF9jQ/U16dFtAA4SI/AAAAAAAAJNI/jlpBORO3IFI/DSC_5619_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nyTdUYSbMmU/U16dMx6h_yI/AAAAAAAAJNQ/RP7xaFFwCnY/s1600-h/DSC_560011.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5600" border="0" alt="DSC_5600" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MGc8Q7edxJw/U16dQYkfHEI/AAAAAAAAJNY/vhXTQxRerqM/DSC_5600_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="209"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HkOpInJqCsQ/U16dXQ6zEGI/AAAAAAAAJNg/8U7zMtJQh9w/s1600-h/DSC_56023.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5602" border="0" alt="DSC_5602" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YE40vdjo7_E/U16da53cR8I/AAAAAAAAJNo/MlETO6JPu94/DSC_5602_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zN69fy4QmzA/U16dh7d-jMI/AAAAAAAAJNw/gTsR3wp5N-s/DSC_560111.jpg?imgmax=800"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5601" border="0" alt="DSC_5601" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mWxu4gtpsUU/U16dl8-0aoI/AAAAAAAAJN4/QJ1dLazfQGo/DSC_5601_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qSdkh-vxwic/U16dqt3rZRI/AAAAAAAAJOA/ha2BDjJe1jA/s1600-h/DSC_56109.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5610" border="0" alt="DSC_5610" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-boTiJ23V_5c/U16d447dYMI/AAAAAAAAJOI/GcrGQ1GSx68/DSC_5610_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="235" height="167"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6iF0T5IRbRw/U16d9-tVPAI/AAAAAAAAJOQ/cz7N7i9kDS4/DSC_563816.jpg?imgmax=800"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5638" border="0" alt="DSC_5638" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aGqtOmgPiEw/U16eFZyzApI/AAAAAAAAJOY/kbYUh72cbBc/DSC_5638_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="490" height="484"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It would have been easy to linger but we weren’t officially checked into French Polynesia and while the local mayor looks favourably upon cruisers stopping for a day or so, we didn’t want to push our luck. We’d wandered around the town snorkelled the shoreline and explored the lush valley so were happy to move on. With brisk trade winds running we had a fast sail to beautiful Hane Moa Noe Bay on Tahuata. Unlike Fatu Hiva with its black volcanic rock and sand, Tahuata has gorgeous white coral sand beaches. Highlights were having manta rays feeding around the boat, snorkelling along the rocks with spotted leopard rays and buying fresh baguettes from the nearby village! The bay was a good chance to have a catch up with boats we’d crossed the Atlantic with – Remi De, Outsider, Ooroo, Shakti, Antares and Merritulli. What else to do on a beautiful Marquesan beach than have drinks at sundown?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3fg3SfdPlvE/U16eIlr9oVI/AAAAAAAAJOg/EHSxcfxZvYg/s1600-h/IMG_05554.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0555" border="0" alt="IMG_0555" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zADQJootGpo/U16eLowfPBI/AAAAAAAAJOo/wOwqPcwxsMY/IMG_0555_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-49eicIYBhvs/U16ePSclYRI/AAAAAAAAJOw/RTkm4LqwJ1Y/s1600-h/DSC_56458.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5645" border="0" alt="DSC_5645" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HWluspCKE0o/U16eSP7jIiI/AAAAAAAAJO4/puhSbVsjJEA/DSC_5645_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="233"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GFUAnD_nqnU/U16eU_nQxLI/AAAAAAAAJPA/K494dqMsum0/s1600-h/DSC_56508.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5650" border="0" alt="DSC_5650" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AJY1LR4sIgs/U16eXhx86XI/AAAAAAAAJPI/ElLeG5gdfDQ/DSC_5650_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="229"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vy0A71m4czQ/U16ecZDcYoI/AAAAAAAAJPQ/iLukc7m2YQI/s1600-h/DSC_56534.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5653" border="0" alt="DSC_5653" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DzIobEjchh8/U16efPyJdzI/AAAAAAAAJPY/UcbQICXpyCg/DSC_5653_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="182"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CvyT9F5Eho0/U16ekizCoKI/AAAAAAAAJPg/MJ63xzTKGUc/s1600-h/DSC_56525.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5652" border="0" alt="DSC_5652" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ft6FwsiPJJs/U16enR3LAyI/AAAAAAAAJPo/AoivrPe5Ntc/DSC_5652_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="189"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m4RWHy1VLgc/U16ere4hFEI/AAAAAAAAJPw/_jX6uEaF4GA/s1600-h/DSC_5641.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5641" border="0" alt="DSC_5641" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c7Q6QDUNG4I/U16etwDciKI/AAAAAAAAJP4/FK--FuXnB5I/DSC_5641_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">It would have been easy to linger but we need to clear in with authorities so it’s off to Niku Hiva. We have enjoyed our first taste of land after our longest ever passage and can’t wait to explore more of these gorgeous Marquesan islands. It’s wonderful to be at anchor at night again. While it wasn’t very memorable our Pacific crossing is behind us – well the biggest chunk of it anyway!</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mrUJDkAqt5s/U16exTmZX2I/AAAAAAAAJQA/mP0st7HKsqc/s1600-h/DSC_557511.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5575" border="0" alt="DSC_5575" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ugfYxva5qVg/U16ezzk2aPI/AAAAAAAAJQI/58joQ69vF9Q/DSC_5575_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0-rJmE8uQhg/U16e2uxrDaI/AAAAAAAAJQQ/9K2VA8A0SRI/s1600-h/DSC_557110.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5571" border="0" alt="DSC_5571" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lPsx_TWYvM4/U16e5TxvkeI/AAAAAAAAJQY/8hyqC2fSg0I/DSC_5571_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-S-feVR7ssSM/U16e9mxxd3I/AAAAAAAAJQg/Miu_ahBr7Bo/s1600-h/DSC_557916.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5579" border="0" alt="DSC_5579" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j_WF8afx_O8/U16fAkUbDkI/AAAAAAAAJQo/zbhlrp8NdOA/DSC_5579_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QBnbZJysicA/U16fEZITcCI/AAAAAAAAJQw/N_YnWudp4l0/s1600-h/IMG_05388.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0538" border="0" alt="IMG_0538" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lXyfYc_qB_A/U16fHHpDTiI/AAAAAAAAJQ4/2xKOtAoq2XM/IMG_0538_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="484"></a></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-91923009357824038462014-03-30T23:07:00.001+01:002014-03-30T23:09:05.300+01:00Gobsmacked in the Galapagos<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Wow – the Galapagos Islands are every bit as awesome as we expected. Red tape and entry difficulties aside (see <a href="http://www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit">www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit</a> for details) that is. After being forced to go to Isla San Cristobal rather than our first choice of Isabella, we were finally granted a 20 day stay at a cost of US$715. Thank goodness or we would’ve missed some great sights, like this- a regular morning visitor.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FngtDzCzmUY/UziTQK74lDI/AAAAAAAAJFY/d1QSsO9Klzs/s1600-h/DSC_54839.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5483" border="0" alt="DSC_5483" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CVx85WK5nxk/UziTSmMh4WI/AAAAAAAAJFg/Ct5T-K9LE40/DSC_5483_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="446"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our seven day passage from the Las Perlas islands off Panama to the Galapagos archipelago was, as David remarked, “as good as it gets”. The winds were a little light, which was frustrating at times, but with flat seas we managed to keep Bandit sailing. Highlight was crossing the equator. As we were sailing along quite nicely at that stage we opted not to stop for a mid ocean dip but did toast Neptune.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Wz_uLmV6hhk/UziTVCYai3I/AAAAAAAAJFo/nV9z4TRdSHE/s1600-h/DSC_545210.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5452" border="0" alt="DSC_5452" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bDLqXEhOn60/UziTXor7WYI/AAAAAAAAJFw/jrFbT9jbibk/DSC_5452_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yrmmtty-Nm0/UziTazS4RNI/AAAAAAAAJF4/tpAzZgCvG5I/s1600-h/DSC_545613.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5456" border="0" alt="DSC_5456" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n-NAj9zUdIo/UziTdRfj5gI/AAAAAAAAJGA/TrCrmmIzvTw/DSC_5456_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o1nxUh02jKo/UziThCw5FAI/AAAAAAAAJGI/oNR_M9cWSoY/s1600-h/DSC_54739.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5473" border="0" alt="DSC_5473" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5GV1VyaVh44/UziTl5ftC4I/AAAAAAAAJGQ/UUYgkEXt_hU/DSC_5473_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="173"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our final day at sea featured a lovely spinnaker run down the north west coast of San Cristobal island accompanied by schools of sea lions and playful dolphins. We also had an inquisitive hammerhead shark come alongside. At dusk were surrounded by black fins we initially thought were sharks but after seeing a few leap out of the water we soon realised they were massive manta rays.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-grAy06YRonQ/UziTpW_Fo2I/AAAAAAAAJGY/tYpZZk9pCvk/s1600-h/sharks9.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="sharks" border="0" alt="sharks" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HOetp5LOCFg/UziTsMf9rOI/AAAAAAAAJGg/_UV8dnerOoI/sharks_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="321"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BILyIXNotew/UziTu8lZ1DI/AAAAAAAAJGo/Zy3dYGV9G5U/s1600-h/DSC_54548.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5454" border="0" alt="DSC_5454" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ix_wcFXuwes/UziTxGojcPI/AAAAAAAAJGw/QNWJs5en0XU/DSC_5454_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1bE-PSjNoTA/UziTzgUgNfI/AAAAAAAAJG4/PLib_4DYMIA/s1600-h/DSC_54677.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5467" border="0" alt="DSC_5467" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2eB_1RK3Yrc/UziT1yKJyBI/AAAAAAAAJHA/swymhYv9O7I/DSC_5467_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y4ib2YrBfok/UziT4QT1lbI/AAAAAAAAJHI/UNdPbmEwk4A/s1600-h/DSC_547813.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5478" border="0" alt="DSC_5478" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3cs3jr0CoTE/UziT7B0yhOI/AAAAAAAAJHQ/KQikLEhzM8U/DSC_5478_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="366"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Once cleared in, which involved having fresh produce and rubbish examined, hull dived on and holding tank checked, we were free to explore. T</font><font face="Comic Sans MS">he anchorage at Wreck Bay provided plenty of wildlife activity. We had blue footed boobies diving all around, playful sea lions, turtles and even the odd shark swimming on by. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mDyvYlJ4kQc/UziT9ti7ldI/AAAAAAAAJHY/So_bShE0Yuc/s1600-h/up-close7.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="up close" border="0" alt="up close" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K77lPJ-CzLk/UziT_4gbd1I/AAAAAAAAJHg/6x9CbK4Esaw/up-close_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="281"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"> </font> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GbABlqZKkU4/UziUZCF0nSI/AAAAAAAAJHo/pQT0Eayk_64/s1600-h/DSC_55503.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5550" border="0" alt="DSC_5550" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r6rXe1jMw18/UziUbZXC7mI/AAAAAAAAJHw/TqQ-cJiwWWc/DSC_5550_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="219" height="214"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Rp6UKqFVsl8/UziUdzJU-AI/AAAAAAAAJH4/1pGK26nIDfs/s1600-h/DSC_55477.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5547" border="0" alt="DSC_5547" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nNw5GLOO2Rk/UziUgJCCZYI/AAAAAAAAJIA/YZv-se4kpJs/DSC_5547_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="213"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3sJ1ZSE9Bt8/UziUj6VaGFI/AAAAAAAAJII/YFEYLO2QGiQ/s1600-h/cid_BFC04AAC40B44BBAB961CDC39D58B15D%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="!cid_BFC04AAC40B44BBAB961CDC39D58B15D@UserVAIO" border="0" alt="!cid_BFC04AAC40B44BBAB961CDC39D58B15D@UserVAIO" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R53627veex8/UziUogJW0-I/AAAAAAAAJIQ/xrihyQt4wmY/cid_BFC04AAC40B44BBAB961CDC39D58B15D.png?imgmax=800" width="504" height="340"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">The Galapagos archipelago consists of 18 main islands, three smaller and only four are inhabited. Thanks to Charles Darwin’s brief visit here in the early 1800s and subsequent release of Origin of Species with its theory of evolution, the islands have taken on a mythological status and Darwin himself is a romanticised hero. It is intriguing to see Darwin’s “evolved” animals in their natural state and what we found most startling – Darwin’s theories aside – is the way the animals are totally unafraid of humans. Whether it’s a marina iguana, seal, shark or bird, they allow humans to get incredibly close and there is no fear shown – in fact they interact freely and even pose for photos.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JaUcfA4g8gw/UziUsnBPphI/AAAAAAAAJIY/mR4VHGwfgkA/s1600-h/DSCN380617.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3806" border="0" alt="DSCN3806" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RokQrjZZsPI/UziUu2XAl5I/AAAAAAAAJIg/1btyjGSqVqg/DSCN3806_thumb22.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" height="205"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pOQbuT16y54/UziUxQjk-vI/AAAAAAAAJIo/g5OW5Kpds1g/s1600-h/DSCN37251%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3725" border="0" alt="DSCN3725" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lk8Yf0bw7GY/UziUzk4kopI/AAAAAAAAJIw/155xF5ccZLo/DSCN3725_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GyBnxjM1Ixs/UziU4oB0wwI/AAAAAAAAJI4/b6POTeMIi6M/s1600-h/DSCN383910.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3839" border="0" alt="DSCN3839" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9C-0rJ_beIs/UziU7aLX1EI/AAAAAAAAJJA/uVY4oPYDD6w/DSCN3839_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6wgwT3TWqlY/UziU-LjT-nI/AAAAAAAAJJI/hR3Pmz7trE4/s1600-h/DSCN386712.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3867" border="0" alt="DSCN3867" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1sPIOZtvQhA/UziVBpxY3NI/AAAAAAAAJJQ/fQJ22jnl6Ns/DSCN3867_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="284"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wA8slba6Kq0/UziVDygS40I/AAAAAAAAJJY/fDxhm668tS0/s1600-h/DSCN38366.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3836" border="0" alt="DSCN3836" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/---eZM46xThk/UziVGLwqbzI/AAAAAAAAJJg/t2Y5CYtZFuQ/DSCN3836_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="214" height="295"></a></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Tourism is strictly controlled in the Galapagos and therefore (we felt) at times a little contrived but San Cristobal is one island where you can indulge in several activities without a guide. A strenuous hike took us to Los La Loberia where we swam with the giant turtles. On the way we passed dozens of marine iguanas. We also had loads of fun snorkelling with the sea lions at the nearby rocks. They’d swim right up to us at speed giving us a huge fright then blow bubbles in our faces and twist and turn away – performing some amazing aquabatics as they did so before returning at lightning speed from a different direction. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NzGXwfy-CaU/UziVI01mbJI/AAAAAAAAJJo/YPdZ7lN52-4/s1600-h/DSC_55074.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5507" border="0" alt="DSC_5507" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4t9A7taKKOA/UziVK17orgI/AAAAAAAAJJw/ZNVwPXECxHo/DSC_5507_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ncGwNlCAYP0/UziVNTtb1bI/AAAAAAAAJJ4/wppFkdyeczQ/s1600-h/DSC_54966.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5496" border="0" alt="DSC_5496" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L-FfcAI-Gj0/UziVP4CAwGI/AAAAAAAAJKA/_GZbvWTgA34/DSC_5496_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="219" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MUjSUUDDAjk/UziVScW3hJI/AAAAAAAAJKI/ULvQUfT7MCw/s1600-h/IMG_05057.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0505" border="0" alt="IMG_0505" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LXcGIgu4Wus/UziVUt21KwI/AAAAAAAAJKQ/el13kPib3c0/IMG_0505_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="199"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AwU4jh45ZKA/UziVXDih0SI/AAAAAAAAJKY/Bh0CskT4G9E/s1600-h/IMG_05065.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0506" border="0" alt="IMG_0506" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oFo-rJ_XERM/UziVZv6SmUI/AAAAAAAAJKg/RV9fbR0UV2c/IMG_0506_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="199"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We took a taxi tour to the 896m Cerra San Joaquin, an extinct volcano with a freshwater crater lake where frigate birds wash the salt off their wings and then to the tortoise breeding centre where giant land tortoises roam in a natural environment. Eggs are collected and hatched in incubators and the young tortoises cared for until they are released at five years old. Hard to believe the early settlers, pirates and fishermen (and Darwin himself) ate these defenceless creatures by the tens of thousands. Because they live for weeks without food they were stacked alive in ships’ holds.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JrSctV0fSw4/UziVcoXYVhI/AAAAAAAAJKo/a2GTeHsO5Bs/s1600-h/DSC_552414.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5524" border="0" alt="DSC_5524" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6esvw_a2A3g/UziVfd2hl4I/AAAAAAAAJKw/RiqZrxlZxlA/DSC_55241_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="340"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sCE7ykImvFs/UziViyjZ9PI/AAAAAAAAJK4/i26TuJ6B_VQ/s1600-h/DSC_552864.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5528" border="0" alt="DSC_5528" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2NmeU3-8Vzc/UziVllUGcCI/AAAAAAAAJLA/9Vy-8RB91h4/DSC_55286_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="503" height="340"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1uKax8Qimao/UziVn_E0x2I/AAAAAAAAJLI/n2dWAhu8Xl4/s1600-h/DSC_55408.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_5540" border="0" alt="DSC_5540" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Pkdkyqo_6YQ/UziVqZE-s2I/AAAAAAAAJLQ/ZAGscP8yFUE/DSC_5540_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">What surprised us most about the Galapagos were the glorious beaches. We’d expected black volcanic sand and there are lots of those but also dozens of beautiful white coral sand beaches.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1748084843826031515.post-86644838269485682352014-03-30T22:56:00.001+01:002014-03-30T23:05:47.449+01:00In Darwin’s famous footsteps<p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We quickly realised that travelling independently in the Galapagos was nigh on impossible. The land area is 97% national park and you need to be accompanied by a guide to enter - with a few exceptions. Cruising yachts are restricted to three anchorages and you can’t just take the tender and go off snorkelling. Keen to see the wildlife up close as Darwin had back in 1835 when he visited on the Beagle we took advice from fellow cruisers Tulu and booked a multi island tour. The whole idea of doing this is to manage the resource and keep tourism at a sustainable level but we’re not so sure about that – at times some of the Galapagos felt as crowded as anywhere else!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_yP6C5KT4ws/UziRueAJIFI/AAAAAAAAJBY/e5MhYWk0wKQ/s1600-h/DSCN37148.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3714" border="0" alt="DSCN3714" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4UKxZVE4dSA/UziRwlT3MeI/AAAAAAAAJBg/4GSyhr0ETKM/DSCN3714_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xUK5zCnbK3Q/UziRzaIn65I/AAAAAAAAJBo/cHfVm0sInBY/s1600-h/DSCN38088.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3808" border="0" alt="DSCN3808" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S8tgTZtdbyQ/UziR1UjP0tI/AAAAAAAAJBw/LJPkjEkTJxg/DSCN3808_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="236" height="185"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qCB0BZyDi0Y/UziR33_opWI/AAAAAAAAJB4/uhPgGZt8mgg/s1600-h/DSCN37841.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3784" border="0" alt="DSCN3784" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FtoXLtsFQbM/UziR66oFs-I/AAAAAAAAJCA/5BQg4fJhcQ4/DSCN3784_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We opted for a five day/four night trip that took in four islands – San Cristobal, Floreana, Isabela and Santa Cruz. At nights we stayed ashore which was a novelty for us, but for non cruisers staying on a boat probably gives a better perspective. You get to wake up in remote locations and see the animals in their natural habitats before the tourists descend. Of course we are lucky enough to do this every day and San Cristobal has been magic for that.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ij8z9NDq33s/UziR9X9sh5I/AAAAAAAAJCI/Oul9HZ0iwUA/s1600-h/DSCN38257.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3825" border="0" alt="DSCN3825" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HdHxqI_Fgy4/UziR_QHJAhI/AAAAAAAAJCQ/Na3CFZVCLyc/DSCN3825_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ww3UwjtXn5I/UziSCTohX5I/AAAAAAAAJCY/VmMKOuhRISk/s1600-h/DSCN3727.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3727" border="0" alt="DSCN3727" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ol4halAf0M0/UziSEkkhhKI/AAAAAAAAJCg/6bv45v5oZ6Q/DSCN3727_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="195"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nItBHa-GELo/UziSIHEo7uI/AAAAAAAAJCo/bB-GVQqsF3g/s1600-h/DSCN37308.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3730" border="0" alt="DSCN3730" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kHT3WPtTXYU/UziSKpkJIrI/AAAAAAAAJCw/Wnldo1DJROo/DSCN3730_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3Fs_9c0KjK0/UziSNb8wW7I/AAAAAAAAJC4/mg-otfgsst0/s1600-h/DSCN37535.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3753" border="0" alt="DSCN3753" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-am1EPctbcwY/UziSPcOva3I/AAAAAAAAJDA/HPui5OjFEWI/DSCN3753_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="152"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EtnLrDoTO9s/UziSSVLlWMI/AAAAAAAAJDI/WhW2rcZ6lTU/s1600-h/DSCN3760.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3760" border="0" alt="DSCN3760" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C8M-yEW3VIE/UziSUVymRKI/AAAAAAAAJDQ/JzpjMJJEYNw/DSCN3760_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="182"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">Our tour was a great mix of land and sea activities with lots of snorkelling. Call us spoilt but<font face="Comic Sans MS"> having done most of our snorkelling on our own having to cope with 10 others was trying at times. Most of the group were experienced but there was the odd lifejacket wearing “splasher” amongst us. However we did see all the wildlife we hoped to with the highlight being the white tip reef sharks on Isla Isabela. They were completely nonchalant about us and only the odd curious one came out of the cave they were sleeping in. </font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vOJ7mYYLPJQ/UziSYeLWixI/AAAAAAAAJDY/46tN_j8rB4g/s1600-h/shark-cave7.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="shark cave" border="0" alt="shark cave" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UJCJCVwHBZg/UziSb0yiHYI/AAAAAAAAJDg/uNzYltYvuC0/shark-cave_thumb5.png?imgmax=800" width="504" height="262"></a></font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS">We did a fantastic day trip to Los Tuneles on the south west coast of Isabela to the blue footed boobie breeding colony. Being breeding season it was intriguing to watch the males do a clownish dance involving flapping their wings, stamping their stunning blue feet and whistling a classic wolf whistle to any females within range. Afterwards we snorkelled amongst the wonderful lava tunnels formations spotting sea horses, colourful reef fish and the ever playful sea lions and rays. Best experience was getting incredibly close to the giant turtles – so close we had to consciously avoid them!</font></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wilzLpjhvd4/UziSeskCCzI/AAAAAAAAJDo/4Qfullw3s5U/s1600-h/DSCN38029.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3802" border="0" alt="DSCN3802" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OtkUHmeIzGY/UziShRhy06I/AAAAAAAAJDw/nDAJ45KqYx4/DSCN3802_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><font face="Comic Sans MS">We also got to see the amazing frigate birds up close. We often see them at sea – waiting to scavenge food from other sea birds – but as it was breeding season we got to see the male with his puffed up red chest furiously trying to attract a female. </font></font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Yv157BcxPdc/UziSkdKLC2I/AAAAAAAAJD4/pp5Us5txTMQ/s1600-h/DSCN37109.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3710" border="0" alt="DSCN3710" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3S_6ECr6LG0/UziSmxHvCgI/AAAAAAAAJEA/-tVJtBdyr40/DSCN3710_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yTOB_63L5YE/UziSpVkmCTI/AAAAAAAAJEI/w8Bb6ThKrGk/s1600-h/DSCN37762.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3776" border="0" alt="DSCN3776" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lUXRy-j0I64/UziSrTd06iI/AAAAAAAAJEQ/mVriTzk82CY/DSCN3776_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="181"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JRlE6pd72SI/UziSu0JHWgI/AAAAAAAAJEY/muDE6_q2Xjc/s1600-h/DSCN38067.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3806" border="0" alt="DSCN3806" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0dYz15EO1S8/UziSyZvN6NI/AAAAAAAAJEg/0e0sueOu-vE/DSCN3806_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FBqnpvn_xt8/UziS01plyBI/AAAAAAAAJEo/BUysSZnHhFg/s1600-h/DSCN38058.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3805" border="0" alt="DSCN3805" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dRxZ8HB16P8/UziS3RAFEfI/AAAAAAAAJEw/TLQL7c37c1s/DSCN3805_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="484"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cTx_lrtuldk/UziS6Hl-miI/AAAAAAAAJE4/uUrYgbqL7w0/s1600-h/DSCN374416.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3744" border="0" alt="DSCN3744" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--z09GnGWQHg/UziS8vA3i_I/AAAAAAAAJFA/L-xIDiXCnuo/DSCN3744_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">On Floreana we did our thing for fellow tourists and checked the mail at the historic post-box. This system harks back to whaling days when ships would leave mail in the post-box for other ships heading home. Unfortunately there were no postcards with New Zealand in the address…..would have been great to take it the “original” way, by sail</font>! <font face="Comic Sans MS">On Santa Cruz we hiked to Tortuga Bay where baby black tip reef sharks swam around our legs in the shallow water. On our final day we had a trip into the amazingly lush highlands to the lava tunnels before being ferried back to San Cristobal.</font></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS"></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0RvtegFhInI/UziS_B1XDII/AAAAAAAAJFI/qWDVtgmqvhw/s1600-h/DSCN384712.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCN3847" border="0" alt="DSCN3847" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-grCdjJbQT6U/UziTBccFNMI/AAAAAAAAJFQ/W4z4cs7DG-o/DSCN3847_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="379"></a></p> <p><font face="Comic Sans MS">We thoroughly enjoyed our trip which gave us a great insight into this archipelago. Our guide Andreas was knowledgeable and passionate about the Galapagos which made the experience even more special. </font><font face="Comic Sans MS">Having done justice to these stunning islands with their bountiful wildlife we’re now about to head to the Marquesas. You can follow our progress on our at sea blog - <a href="http://www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit">www.blog.mailasail.com/yachtbandit</a></font></p> Brenda Webb and David Morganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15554403852580725856noreply@blogger.com0