June 29, 2015 1430
25nm off Huahine
Aloha Everyone, Ho'onanea is back at sea again, heading Northward again. Yesterday morning, after breakfast, Karin and I took a quick run to shore for a fe errands and a garbage deposit. We then visited "Iolani", a S&S 48 that will be visiting KYC sometime in the next six months. A very nice couple. We then weent to hoist 250 feet of chain to an unpleasant surprise, the windlass quite. The motor turns internally, but not externally. Very difficult to remove, even if fixable. We then motored out Cooks Bay and into Opunohu Bay, a stunning backdrop. We anchored in about 8' of water, easy! I cleaned the bottom and did some snorkeling. Coral not looking great, but lots of fish. We had a delightful evening, dinner, and another movie. We decided it was time to head North as Fred and his wife wil be leaving from Raiatea on July 4th, and there is still plenty for them to see. Moorea was hard to leave, we could easily have spent a month there! We left our anchorage at 4:30 am thinking we could get to Huahine before dark. The gribs had said 10-15 kts off the starboard quarter, wrong! Wind was light and dead astern for first30 nm, we did then see the 10-13kt for a few hours, but it is now on our stern again and we have engine back on. the pass on east side should be easy to negotiate with the ipad. Crew all doing well, good food, good fun. All for now, Aloha, David
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Monday, June 29, 2015
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Fred's input
(reminder- I havent read David's post.) Wowawewa!! This place is beautiful, i can see why David and Karin wanted to come back. We had a real taste of cruising (=fixing your boat in exotic places) with numerous repairs in Papate. Then a few hours sail to Moorea, supposedly the inspiration for "South Pacifiic." In Cook's Bay for two days. Calm...beautiful. Also had a nice drive around the island in a rental car. Went well until I tried to shift into 6th like my Honda (was a five speed transmission.)
then, took bro' Randy to ferry so he could leave for Thatie\Honolulu.
This am left and came to another anchorage. Was interesting as windless (equipment which hauls chain back into boat) malfunctioned. Was 60'deep, with 200' chain.Was rough for Dave to haul up by hand, with some help from me and Linda's hands/arms in chair locker guiding chain into place. She did a great job as ran out in this anchorage without problem. In AM, at 0400 will get up and leave for Huahini, a12 hour trip and Linda's only sig ocean passage. Winds should be moderate. Very relaxing RE meals, etc. Is great to be here with David and Karin. It was all worth it!! Fred
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then, took bro' Randy to ferry so he could leave for Thatie\Honolulu.
This am left and came to another anchorage. Was interesting as windless (equipment which hauls chain back into boat) malfunctioned. Was 60'deep, with 200' chain.Was rough for Dave to haul up by hand, with some help from me and Linda's hands/arms in chair locker guiding chain into place. She did a great job as ran out in this anchorage without problem. In AM, at 0400 will get up and leave for Huahini, a12 hour trip and Linda's only sig ocean passage. Winds should be moderate. Very relaxing RE meals, etc. Is great to be here with David and Karin. It was all worth it!! Fred
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Moorea
6/28/15 0800
Aloha everyone, we have been busy enjoying Moorea. Even though the foilage and the climate and the volcanic origins are the same as Hawaii, it seems so different and very,very beautiful. The peaks are heavily eroded into spires and troughs and all sorts of exotic shapes. The greens just seem greener and the blues blueer. Don't remember where I left off. I believe we were motoring over here. We arrived just before dark and anchored at the head of the bay with about 17 other boats. Lots of room and good holding, in 70 feet. A proper cocktail and then Randy cooked some chicken long rice. Next morning, we headed into shore via Club Bali Hai, arranged a car for the next day and then took a walk. Lots of beautiful black pearl shops with gorgeous settings and colors. We had a very nice lunch right on the shore. Back on the boat, a visit by a neighboring boat who will be sailing to Hawaii, and a bit of cleaning up, and then we headed back to Club Bali Hai for dinner and a very enjoyable frre Tahitian dance show. The ladies appreciative of the well designed men. Sleeping on the boat has been easy. It has been cool, with heavy dew at night. Clear and warm during the day. Yesterday, we picked up the car and had to jam five of us and Randy's luggage into a very small car. We visited the juice factory where we tasted wonderful juices and distillates, and checked out there numerous items for sail. Randy was in heaven as he wanted to bring stuff back to family, etc. We then continued our tour with a slight buzz, and visited Opunohu Bay, the Marae and the Belvedere lookout, all so photogenic. We had a most delightful lunch other side of Opunohu and continued around the island. We arrived at the ferry port and had leave Randy behind. I must admit at feeling quite sad as he has been so helpful to me in preparing and doing this adventure. He is Mr. Fixit, and always positive and cheerful, as well as a good cook. The good news is that he will be back in a few months. We did load him up with some parts to be repaired and returned.
Back on the boat, we had a very pleasant swim and a cocktail. Linda cooked a delicious spanish rice and chicken dinner and then a movie, we repeated Woody Allen's "everything you wanted to know about sex", for the ladies.
This morning we will be moving to Opunohu, hopeful with a short stop for snorkeling on the way. We we will be heading up to Huahine probably tomorrow. All for now, Aloha, David
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Aloha everyone, we have been busy enjoying Moorea. Even though the foilage and the climate and the volcanic origins are the same as Hawaii, it seems so different and very,very beautiful. The peaks are heavily eroded into spires and troughs and all sorts of exotic shapes. The greens just seem greener and the blues blueer. Don't remember where I left off. I believe we were motoring over here. We arrived just before dark and anchored at the head of the bay with about 17 other boats. Lots of room and good holding, in 70 feet. A proper cocktail and then Randy cooked some chicken long rice. Next morning, we headed into shore via Club Bali Hai, arranged a car for the next day and then took a walk. Lots of beautiful black pearl shops with gorgeous settings and colors. We had a very nice lunch right on the shore. Back on the boat, a visit by a neighboring boat who will be sailing to Hawaii, and a bit of cleaning up, and then we headed back to Club Bali Hai for dinner and a very enjoyable frre Tahitian dance show. The ladies appreciative of the well designed men. Sleeping on the boat has been easy. It has been cool, with heavy dew at night. Clear and warm during the day. Yesterday, we picked up the car and had to jam five of us and Randy's luggage into a very small car. We visited the juice factory where we tasted wonderful juices and distillates, and checked out there numerous items for sail. Randy was in heaven as he wanted to bring stuff back to family, etc. We then continued our tour with a slight buzz, and visited Opunohu Bay, the Marae and the Belvedere lookout, all so photogenic. We had a most delightful lunch other side of Opunohu and continued around the island. We arrived at the ferry port and had leave Randy behind. I must admit at feeling quite sad as he has been so helpful to me in preparing and doing this adventure. He is Mr. Fixit, and always positive and cheerful, as well as a good cook. The good news is that he will be back in a few months. We did load him up with some parts to be repaired and returned.
Back on the boat, we had a very pleasant swim and a cocktail. Linda cooked a delicious spanish rice and chicken dinner and then a movie, we repeated Woody Allen's "everything you wanted to know about sex", for the ladies.
This morning we will be moving to Opunohu, hopeful with a short stop for snorkeling on the way. We we will be heading up to Huahine probably tomorrow. All for now, Aloha, David
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Thursday, June 25, 2015
At sea again
June 25, 2015 1500
Off Tahiti
Aloha everyone! Yes, it has been awhile! We have been off the boat during the evenings and when we've been on the boat, it has been for projects, no time for writing. We are now on short passage for Moorea. Where do I begin. I guess we left off with trying to get to Papeete. I initially thought we would be off Papeeteby 10AM, we were doing 7ktsand were 60nm off. We get 30 nm off and wind goes light and we get 15 nm off and we start to motor. We are finally off Pt. Venus about 3PM and we get by 30 kts from the south, on the nose! We are heading off for Moorea, tack back, blowing like stink. We were hoping to enter pass past Papeete pass, but, about 5pm, we still had another hour to go so we headed back to the Papeete Pass and got in and got sails down, just as it was getting dark. We started along the channel around the airport. It was dark, very windy and the channel a bit circuitous. Fred was at the helm and I was watching chart plotter. As I was trying to get Fred to head more right, he saw an unlit post and went left, crunch! We hit softly, but could not get off. Some guys in canoe helped us place an anchor, but no luck. The port authority came by and they were able to get us off fairly easily. (tide was going up and we could have gotten ourselves off within an hour or so. We followed the boat in the very blusterly conditions with lots of rain up to the Marina and they took to a place to drop the hook. One of the fellows, a nice, tall Tahitian, was heading to San Antonio in a month. That is where Fred is from, so they exchange numbers. It is now about 9pm and we start getting the dinghy and engine out. We are up on the foredeck, it is blowing a solid thirty knots and pouring rain. Our wives have just landed and we are anxious to see them, but..We finally decide tonight is not the night. We tie things down and head down below and fix a late dinner. After a decent sleep, wind and rain finally have stopped and we eventually get a slip, knowing that we needed to replace batteries and alternator. The wives arrived late morning, and Karin brought aboard a bag of replacements. We had some breakfast and then started in on the boat projects. Late afternoon, we headed off to our hotel and some well deserved rest. Next day, we finished up installing new alternator, and then we were able to decide that at least one battery was bad. We spent a portion of Monday with in procedures and then finding parts, etc., and 8D AGM batteries. Next day, we picked up a battery and then did an around the island tour. Tahiti is a very beautiful island, and i wish I had had the time to sail around it. We had a most pleasant lunch at a surf beach and enjoyed our time with Karin and Linda. They have been very helpful during this time with laundry, cleanup, etc. We finally got new battery hooked up but found that old battery was not holding charge either. Back to battery store! The batteries are very difficult to remove from Ho'o, very difficult! Putting the new ones in is not easy either, but gravity helps. The big problem though, is that in Tahiti, the terminals were reversed!. We found battery wire lugs, but no battery wire. We ended up buying a jumper cable and cutting the wire from that. It took over an hour to redo that,and then the battery cover would not fit. We eventually got things fixed up and the boat put back together. Still have some problems, will need more parts, but we are good for now. We did our grocery shopping and loaded up, fueled up and now are on way to Moorea. We have a few days here with Randy, then he leaves and we will head up to Huahine. Weathern is beautiful n ow, except for no wind. Will write again in a day or so. Hope all are doing well. Aloha, David
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Off Tahiti
Aloha everyone! Yes, it has been awhile! We have been off the boat during the evenings and when we've been on the boat, it has been for projects, no time for writing. We are now on short passage for Moorea. Where do I begin. I guess we left off with trying to get to Papeete. I initially thought we would be off Papeeteby 10AM, we were doing 7ktsand were 60nm off. We get 30 nm off and wind goes light and we get 15 nm off and we start to motor. We are finally off Pt. Venus about 3PM and we get by 30 kts from the south, on the nose! We are heading off for Moorea, tack back, blowing like stink. We were hoping to enter pass past Papeete pass, but, about 5pm, we still had another hour to go so we headed back to the Papeete Pass and got in and got sails down, just as it was getting dark. We started along the channel around the airport. It was dark, very windy and the channel a bit circuitous. Fred was at the helm and I was watching chart plotter. As I was trying to get Fred to head more right, he saw an unlit post and went left, crunch! We hit softly, but could not get off. Some guys in canoe helped us place an anchor, but no luck. The port authority came by and they were able to get us off fairly easily. (tide was going up and we could have gotten ourselves off within an hour or so. We followed the boat in the very blusterly conditions with lots of rain up to the Marina and they took to a place to drop the hook. One of the fellows, a nice, tall Tahitian, was heading to San Antonio in a month. That is where Fred is from, so they exchange numbers. It is now about 9pm and we start getting the dinghy and engine out. We are up on the foredeck, it is blowing a solid thirty knots and pouring rain. Our wives have just landed and we are anxious to see them, but..We finally decide tonight is not the night. We tie things down and head down below and fix a late dinner. After a decent sleep, wind and rain finally have stopped and we eventually get a slip, knowing that we needed to replace batteries and alternator. The wives arrived late morning, and Karin brought aboard a bag of replacements. We had some breakfast and then started in on the boat projects. Late afternoon, we headed off to our hotel and some well deserved rest. Next day, we finished up installing new alternator, and then we were able to decide that at least one battery was bad. We spent a portion of Monday with in procedures and then finding parts, etc., and 8D AGM batteries. Next day, we picked up a battery and then did an around the island tour. Tahiti is a very beautiful island, and i wish I had had the time to sail around it. We had a most pleasant lunch at a surf beach and enjoyed our time with Karin and Linda. They have been very helpful during this time with laundry, cleanup, etc. We finally got new battery hooked up but found that old battery was not holding charge either. Back to battery store! The batteries are very difficult to remove from Ho'o, very difficult! Putting the new ones in is not easy either, but gravity helps. The big problem though, is that in Tahiti, the terminals were reversed!. We found battery wire lugs, but no battery wire. We ended up buying a jumper cable and cutting the wire from that. It took over an hour to redo that,and then the battery cover would not fit. We eventually got things fixed up and the boat put back together. Still have some problems, will need more parts, but we are good for now. We did our grocery shopping and loaded up, fueled up and now are on way to Moorea. We have a few days here with Randy, then he leaves and we will head up to Huahine. Weathern is beautiful n ow, except for no wind. Will write again in a day or so. Hope all are doing well. Aloha, David
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Saturday, June 20, 2015
Last watch
June 20, 2015 0130
16 52 13S
48 23 56W
Aloha everyone, we have had a delightful sail today. Even flew the asym chute for about three hours. The winds have been 10-15 and the seas flat. Hatch open kid of sailing. We continue to be plagued by some problems. The autopilot problem seems to be a low voltage problem, either stemming from our alternator problem or from dying batteries. We are about 80nm from Papeete, Karin is bringing down a new alternator, and hopefully, we can get things figured out. Appreciative of having Randy with me for our fixit problems. We should be tied up and rinsed off by early afternoon. Will have lots to do before Karin and Linda arrive. Although i expected to some sailing around the island, looks more likely we will do some touring and spend some time fixing and cleaning. My brother and his wife will be with us about two more weeks, Randy one more week. At this point, my blogs will be irregular. I will try to update regularly, but no more night watches for awhile. Aloha, David
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16 52 13S
48 23 56W
Aloha everyone, we have had a delightful sail today. Even flew the asym chute for about three hours. The winds have been 10-15 and the seas flat. Hatch open kid of sailing. We continue to be plagued by some problems. The autopilot problem seems to be a low voltage problem, either stemming from our alternator problem or from dying batteries. We are about 80nm from Papeete, Karin is bringing down a new alternator, and hopefully, we can get things figured out. Appreciative of having Randy with me for our fixit problems. We should be tied up and rinsed off by early afternoon. Will have lots to do before Karin and Linda arrive. Although i expected to some sailing around the island, looks more likely we will do some touring and spend some time fixing and cleaning. My brother and his wife will be with us about two more weeks, Randy one more week. At this point, my blogs will be irregular. I will try to update regularly, but no more night watches for awhile. Aloha, David
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Friday, June 19, 2015
"On the downwind run to Papeete"
June 18, 2015 0130
15 04 25S
146 46 34W
Aloha Everyone, back to sea again. We had a most pleasant evening, lasagna, cooked on the BBQ, and then we were finally able to watch our movie, Woody Allen's classic, "Everything you wanted to know about Sex, but were afraid to ask." Very funny, my Bro really enjoyed it. Thanks Mike, we also enjoyed some of your Navan. Afterwords, the three of us had the best night of sleep in weeks! This morning, feeling quite refreshed, we had some breakfast of pancakes (Fred) and bacon and eggs (Randy). We were then able to complete check in procedures, and loaded about 30 gallons of drinking water. We did few projects and then took a hike and saw the new sola array. Ahe has a total population of about 500, of which about 100 live in the village where we were. We BBQ some burgers for lunch and then moved off the pier as the supply ship was coming in. A few more projects and preparations for this next leg, a nice swim and then anchor up. Well, not that easy, anchor
had hooked itself into something and it took awhile to get it up. We headed out thru the lagoon and exited the pass a 6pm. The breeze is pleasant but a bit to light and directly astern of our course between Rangiroa and Arutua. As we must pass between them in the dark of night, it is less than ideal to have to jibe back and forth to keep the sails working. Such is the life of a sailor! As we now must cover more distance, it may be daybreak when we pass between. We will then have about 200nm left and should pull into Tahiti Sat. morning and our wives arrive that evening (sorry Randy.) That's all for now, Aloha, David
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15 04 25S
146 46 34W
Aloha Everyone, back to sea again. We had a most pleasant evening, lasagna, cooked on the BBQ, and then we were finally able to watch our movie, Woody Allen's classic, "Everything you wanted to know about Sex, but were afraid to ask." Very funny, my Bro really enjoyed it. Thanks Mike, we also enjoyed some of your Navan. Afterwords, the three of us had the best night of sleep in weeks! This morning, feeling quite refreshed, we had some breakfast of pancakes (Fred) and bacon and eggs (Randy). We were then able to complete check in procedures, and loaded about 30 gallons of drinking water. We did few projects and then took a hike and saw the new sola array. Ahe has a total population of about 500, of which about 100 live in the village where we were. We BBQ some burgers for lunch and then moved off the pier as the supply ship was coming in. A few more projects and preparations for this next leg, a nice swim and then anchor up. Well, not that easy, anchor
had hooked itself into something and it took awhile to get it up. We headed out thru the lagoon and exited the pass a 6pm. The breeze is pleasant but a bit to light and directly astern of our course between Rangiroa and Arutua. As we must pass between them in the dark of night, it is less than ideal to have to jibe back and forth to keep the sails working. Such is the life of a sailor! As we now must cover more distance, it may be daybreak when we pass between. We will then have about 200nm left and should pull into Tahiti Sat. morning and our wives arrive that evening (sorry Randy.) That's all for now, Aloha, David
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Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Fred Here
(unable read wht Dave said) Wow...sitting at a dock in Ahe, after 18 days of chaacter building experiences. 7 French speaking kids helped us dock, and wanted to swarm the boat. My French wasn't too helpful, after all I studied it in 1962 and 1963. We were able to get non-potable water and shower for first time in 5 days. Then to store for water and Thatian beer. And tonight, not standing watch. We will take the $500 fishing reel off the back cockpit rail, as the kids can clamber up the back of the boat. The atoll is only .25 mi wide, can't believe what this place would be like in a hurricane. Only 10-20 ft. above sea level. Will leave in 1-2 days for Papaette, 36-40 hours of open ocean and then link up with Linda and Karin. Looking forward to a few shore evenings, with days working on boat. Then two more weeks of easy cruising, with one 4 hr trip to Moorea and 10-14 hr to Huiana (both downwind so much easier.) Later, from Papaette.
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Ahe
june 17, 1830
Ahe
Aloha Everyone, I am sitting at my table in the cockpit, with a rum, while writing this. Lots more fun than writing this sometime after midnight while bracing myself at the nav desk. We slowed the boat last night so we would not arrive before daylight, and then Murphy visited and we sailed into a hole. Expected to be able to see Ahe about 15 mi out, but it was only 8 nm before we spotted Ahe. Came in thru the pass and, yes, Murphy again, a big squall. Not a big problem though, and we made it to the anchorage without any problem. We were met by a bunch of friendly kids who helped us tie up and were most curious about us and the boat. We checked in with the Gendarme (Ahe is not a port of entry, but we faked it due to water shortage). We walked around the village and then got the boat somewhat organized. Tomorrow, we will do boat projects and decide whether to stay one day or two, It is so nice writing this in the cockpit, watching the sliver of new moon rise,with a rum in hand. It will be good sleeping tonight! Hard to explain the feeling at voyage end the joy of arriving in an exotic place, and enjoy the sunset and knowing what you went thru to get there. All for now, back to my rum(second one in 18 dsays!}. Aloha, David
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Ahe
Aloha Everyone, I am sitting at my table in the cockpit, with a rum, while writing this. Lots more fun than writing this sometime after midnight while bracing myself at the nav desk. We slowed the boat last night so we would not arrive before daylight, and then Murphy visited and we sailed into a hole. Expected to be able to see Ahe about 15 mi out, but it was only 8 nm before we spotted Ahe. Came in thru the pass and, yes, Murphy again, a big squall. Not a big problem though, and we made it to the anchorage without any problem. We were met by a bunch of friendly kids who helped us tie up and were most curious about us and the boat. We checked in with the Gendarme (Ahe is not a port of entry, but we faked it due to water shortage). We walked around the village and then got the boat somewhat organized. Tomorrow, we will do boat projects and decide whether to stay one day or two, It is so nice writing this in the cockpit, watching the sliver of new moon rise,with a rum in hand. It will be good sleeping tonight! Hard to explain the feeling at voyage end the joy of arriving in an exotic place, and enjoy the sunset and knowing what you went thru to get there. All for now, back to my rum(second one in 18 dsays!}. Aloha, David
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Almost there!
June 17, 2015 0145 MY 43rd Anniversary to my beautiful bride!
50 nm north of Ahe
163nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we are almost there! We had a pleasant day of sailing with calmer winds and seas. We had a nice welcoming party of small porpoise this afternoon.As it had been pleasant all day, i had the small hatch over my berth open. While trying to get some sleep prior to my midnight watch, a big wave from nowhere found us and drenched me and my berth! Such is the life of the sailor. We had to slow the boat down so would arrive off of Ahe in the daylight. There are no lighthouses whatsoever. We plan on some snorkeling outside, before entering the pass. We will then get ourselves anchored, look into some water, explore, clean up ad fix up. We will stay one or two days before the final 250nm to Papeete and our wives. Although, at times, it seems like we have been out here forever, it hasn't been so bad. Aloha, David
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50 nm north of Ahe
163nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we are almost there! We had a pleasant day of sailing with calmer winds and seas. We had a nice welcoming party of small porpoise this afternoon.As it had been pleasant all day, i had the small hatch over my berth open. While trying to get some sleep prior to my midnight watch, a big wave from nowhere found us and drenched me and my berth! Such is the life of the sailor. We had to slow the boat down so would arrive off of Ahe in the daylight. There are no lighthouses whatsoever. We plan on some snorkeling outside, before entering the pass. We will then get ourselves anchored, look into some water, explore, clean up ad fix up. We will stay one or two days before the final 250nm to Papeete and our wives. Although, at times, it seems like we have been out here forever, it hasn't been so bad. Aloha, David
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Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Almost there and wet butts
June 16, 2015 0130
10 54 06S
146 27 09W
6.5 kt @ 175
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, the excitement builds as we approach Ahe, about 200nm away. We do hope they can provide some water, but, due to their remoteness, they may not be able to. Hey, we can trade beer! The auto pilot woes seem to only return at night, so I will need to keep this short. I very much enjoyed Ahe when I was there in '91, don't expect much change. Did I mention that it is still windy (25+), bumpy and wet. Because of all the salt. can't get our cushions or pants dry, hence wet butts! oh well, so you wanna be an ocean sailor, get used to it! The crew is doing great, couldn't ask for more! All for now, David
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10 54 06S
146 27 09W
6.5 kt @ 175
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, the excitement builds as we approach Ahe, about 200nm away. We do hope they can provide some water, but, due to their remoteness, they may not be able to. Hey, we can trade beer! The auto pilot woes seem to only return at night, so I will need to keep this short. I very much enjoyed Ahe when I was there in '91, don't expect much change. Did I mention that it is still windy (25+), bumpy and wet. Because of all the salt. can't get our cushions or pants dry, hence wet butts! oh well, so you wanna be an ocean sailor, get used to it! The crew is doing great, couldn't ask for more! All for now, David
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Monday, June 15, 2015
Fred's input
I'm back. This is the best I've felt all trip. You can tel how I feel by how often I blog. In the beginning, sick for 4-5 days. Then aware of anxiety and apathy. Cause of anxiety should be apparent to anyone ploting on chart/map. I'm a long way from home, or anywhere for that matter.And the lack of water(for bathing or drinking), the ardurous physical conditions, the anxiety of being on watch from 8-12 pm got me into "shut up and endure" mentality. Today I woke up differently. I realize what a charcter building experience this is, and know this trip has left quite an impression (more later)
Dave says will be in Ahe day after tommorow. Snorkle, get water, etc than leave for 1.5 day trip to meet up with Linda and Karin. THAT will be a happy time for this honeymooner. Cheers,Fred
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Dave says will be in Ahe day after tommorow. Snorkle, get water, etc than leave for 1.5 day trip to meet up with Linda and Karin. THAT will be a happy time for this honeymooner. Cheers,Fred
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New problems, but we keep progressing
June 15, 2015
08 23 42S
146 38 19W
6.2 @ 175
153 noon to noon
Aloha everyone, this may be short,as the autopilot wants to go funky. Fairly intolerable day due strong winds 25-30 and big seas. A little better for now. About 350nm to go,so, hopefully, Wed we'll be at anchor. Crew continues to do well, despite a few depriveties. All for now, Aloha, David
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08 23 42S
146 38 19W
6.2 @ 175
153 noon to noon
Aloha everyone, this may be short,as the autopilot wants to go funky. Fairly intolerable day due strong winds 25-30 and big seas. A little better for now. About 350nm to go,so, hopefully, Wed we'll be at anchor. Crew continues to do well, despite a few depriveties. All for now, Aloha, David
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Sunday, June 14, 2015
All is well, excitement builds
June 14, 2015 0130
5 54 12S
146 42 09W
6.5 @ 175
135nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all is well on the good ship Ho'onanea. The crew is doing great. We are all getting along very well, providing interesting stories and comradery. The seas were a little smoother today and Ho'o was averaging 7+kt. Hopefully, that will reflect on tomorrows noon to noon. We have about 500nm to go, and hope to arrive off of Ahe mid day Wed. We do hope they will have some water for us. We will recoup, explore, clean, repair and then head off again for the final 250nm to Papeete. Crew saw a pod of porpoise today, that is the only wildlife, other than the fish we catch. The good news is that we have seen almost no trash! BTW, thanks Cathy for the Perrier, we are enjoying it. Noodle, let us know Summer circuit results. That pretty much raps it up until tomorrow. Aloha, David
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5 54 12S
146 42 09W
6.5 @ 175
135nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all is well on the good ship Ho'onanea. The crew is doing great. We are all getting along very well, providing interesting stories and comradery. The seas were a little smoother today and Ho'o was averaging 7+kt. Hopefully, that will reflect on tomorrows noon to noon. We have about 500nm to go, and hope to arrive off of Ahe mid day Wed. We do hope they will have some water for us. We will recoup, explore, clean, repair and then head off again for the final 250nm to Papeete. Crew saw a pod of porpoise today, that is the only wildlife, other than the fish we catch. The good news is that we have seen almost no trash! BTW, thanks Cathy for the Perrier, we are enjoying it. Noodle, let us know Summer circuit results. That pretty much raps it up until tomorrow. Aloha, David
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Saturday, June 13, 2015
Another day, another problem
June 13, 2015 0130
3 19 54S
146 43 08W
5.2 @ 175
135 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone! Changed water tanks this morning only to find that the port one has leaked out on it's own! We are not sure why, still too rough to figure it out. we have plenty of fluids and emergency water meant for the liferaft, so we will be fine. It's just damn inconvenient now even to wipe salt off of our glasses. We are about 650nm from Ahe, should get there Thursday. They will not have much water for us, but hopefully, a little, plus an opportunity to check for the cause and try to get the water maker going again. We had actually hoped we would never even need the port tank (we have tank each side, 60 gallons each.) Has been quite windy and bumpy. We ae trying to stay out of the Sun so are resting more. Skipped the fishing today. Wind should moderate a little by Monday. Aloha, David
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3 19 54S
146 43 08W
5.2 @ 175
135 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone! Changed water tanks this morning only to find that the port one has leaked out on it's own! We are not sure why, still too rough to figure it out. we have plenty of fluids and emergency water meant for the liferaft, so we will be fine. It's just damn inconvenient now even to wipe salt off of our glasses. We are about 650nm from Ahe, should get there Thursday. They will not have much water for us, but hopefully, a little, plus an opportunity to check for the cause and try to get the water maker going again. We had actually hoped we would never even need the port tank (we have tank each side, 60 gallons each.) Has been quite windy and bumpy. We ae trying to stay out of the Sun so are resting more. Skipped the fishing today. Wind should moderate a little by Monday. Aloha, David
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Friday, June 12, 2015
Neptune's visit and more fish
June 12, 2015 0200
1 18 36S
146 46 38W
6.2kt @ 170
150nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone(all six of you), it was a big day on Ho'o today. The morning brought more breeze and bumpier conditions. We crossed the equator at 1139 and the slimy polywogs were ordered to prepare for a visitor. King Neptune then appeared, all decked out in a long grey beard, gold grown, shell leis, lavalava and a trident. What a handsome figure he was! Then,following ancient and traditional rites that included shaving cream, razors and eggs, along with appropriate groveling, and drinking unmentionable stuff, the slimy polywogs metriculated into proud shellbacks. We then poured some rum over the side for Neptune, and the ceremony was over. Not long after (did I mention that the day we didn't catch a fish, we didn't use one of my lures) we got hit by a big ahi and fought the 75# for 30 min, only to loose him at the transom. He was too big for us and we did save MY lure. Later on we caught a more appropriate sized aku. Karin and Linda had nice cards for us, which were much appreciated. Rest of day we worked on surviving the heat and bumpyness. Now that it is winter, you'd think it would be cooler! We enjoyed a nice beef stew a la Karin, and then topped the day off with some Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia. Wow, did that taste good!
We are now 775m away, which seems doable, hope to have anchor down next Thursday. My fine crew of shellbacks wishes everyone well. Aloha, David
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1 18 36S
146 46 38W
6.2kt @ 170
150nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone(all six of you), it was a big day on Ho'o today. The morning brought more breeze and bumpier conditions. We crossed the equator at 1139 and the slimy polywogs were ordered to prepare for a visitor. King Neptune then appeared, all decked out in a long grey beard, gold grown, shell leis, lavalava and a trident. What a handsome figure he was! Then,following ancient and traditional rites that included shaving cream, razors and eggs, along with appropriate groveling, and drinking unmentionable stuff, the slimy polywogs metriculated into proud shellbacks. We then poured some rum over the side for Neptune, and the ceremony was over. Not long after (did I mention that the day we didn't catch a fish, we didn't use one of my lures) we got hit by a big ahi and fought the 75# for 30 min, only to loose him at the transom. He was too big for us and we did save MY lure. Later on we caught a more appropriate sized aku. Karin and Linda had nice cards for us, which were much appreciated. Rest of day we worked on surviving the heat and bumpyness. Now that it is winter, you'd think it would be cooler! We enjoyed a nice beef stew a la Karin, and then topped the day off with some Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia. Wow, did that taste good!
We are now 775m away, which seems doable, hope to have anchor down next Thursday. My fine crew of shellbacks wishes everyone well. Aloha, David
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Thursday, June 11, 2015
Jimmy Buffet day
June 11, 2015 0130
00 59.5N
146 56.7W
5.4 @ 175
145 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, it has been a beautiful day here in the equatorial Pacific. Perfect sailing with moderate breeze from the beam and calm seas. While enjoying conversation on deck this morning, we decided it was a Jimmy Buffet sort of day so played his music all day! We usually have not been playing it. A few disappointments, first day we put a line (got the pole out) and didn't catch a fish! Also, I decided to bake some bread, bt couldn't get oven to light (it's new and worked fine at home.) If we can't fix that, there goes our brownies! Tomorrow is our big day when we cross the equator. I expect a visitor as we do a have a couple of slimy polywogs aboard who need to be properly initiated into shellbackdom. Crew all doing well and know that we will be there in a week. Aloha, David
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00 59.5N
146 56.7W
5.4 @ 175
145 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, it has been a beautiful day here in the equatorial Pacific. Perfect sailing with moderate breeze from the beam and calm seas. While enjoying conversation on deck this morning, we decided it was a Jimmy Buffet sort of day so played his music all day! We usually have not been playing it. A few disappointments, first day we put a line (got the pole out) and didn't catch a fish! Also, I decided to bake some bread, bt couldn't get oven to light (it's new and worked fine at home.) If we can't fix that, there goes our brownies! Tomorrow is our big day when we cross the equator. I expect a visitor as we do a have a couple of slimy polywogs aboard who need to be properly initiated into shellbackdom. Crew all doing well and know that we will be there in a week. Aloha, David
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Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Fred's input
I hear my input frm yesterday was too short . I'll try again. This is one long trip! Dave says over half way. Tomorrow we cross the equator; I know Dave has something planned. He'd like to have a movie. but I dont have any stand/ tripod.
We all have settled into routine. Most of time now mild seas and wind, and endless blue ocean as far as you can see, for day after day. Will be nice to be in
Aha for few days, should be there in one week! For variety, we'll take scenic route. Best part:commardarie with my bros, and the view and all the immense learnings I'm having. Now downside/cost is heat and salt. Usually too rough to keeps hatches open. So...down below is very hot ane without any breeze. Last night I was up from 310 to 420 as unable to sleep in my berth. Then Randy on watch and easier to sleep, as it was the downwind side and I was lying against cushion on my back instead of chest into le cloth. Anything seawater touches is tacky. I'm trying to keep my hands clean before handeling any of my devices.
We all talk a lot,even about our next trip. Both Dave and I think a "civilized" adventure wold br approved by our wives, such as a barge cruise in
southern France. Miss you all, looking forward to Linda and Karin on 21st. Later.
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We all have settled into routine. Most of time now mild seas and wind, and endless blue ocean as far as you can see, for day after day. Will be nice to be in
Aha for few days, should be there in one week! For variety, we'll take scenic route. Best part:commardarie with my bros, and the view and all the immense learnings I'm having. Now downside/cost is heat and salt. Usually too rough to keeps hatches open. So...down below is very hot ane without any breeze. Last night I was up from 310 to 420 as unable to sleep in my berth. Then Randy on watch and easier to sleep, as it was the downwind side and I was lying against cushion on my back instead of chest into le cloth. Anything seawater touches is tacky. I'm trying to keep my hands clean before handeling any of my devices.
We all talk a lot,even about our next trip. Both Dave and I think a "civilized" adventure wold br approved by our wives, such as a barge cruise in
southern France. Miss you all, looking forward to Linda and Karin on 21st. Later.
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Great day of sailing
june 10,2015 0200
3 32 02N
146 54 21W
6.8kt @ 175
128nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, what a great day of sailing, 10-15 kt of breeze on the beam, clear skies, great crew, fresh fish when ever you want, good food, the life of a sailor! Did I mention it is hot, real hot. We can'r open the hatches because of splashes, and even if we did, the air is still hot. Also, we have now lost the use of both handlines, which we just had rebuilt, and our favorite lures, due to poor crimping. And to make it worse, I thought I had the spare parts to rebuild, NOT! We'll bring out the pole tomorrow and pick up our spares in Papeete'. We did catch a nice small ahi this morning, ad Randy rendered it into a fine meal, steaming it with vegetables on a bed of pasta. Favorite time of day now is late afternoon where we get out from under the awning into the fresh breeze, as the Sun hides behind a few clouds. Our days run should start to increase as we have "turned" the corner, made all the easting we need and are heading straight to Ahe. We are a few dyas past halfway, about 200nm from the equator. We will celebrate there, as I expect a visitor. That is all for now, Aloha, David
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3 32 02N
146 54 21W
6.8kt @ 175
128nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, what a great day of sailing, 10-15 kt of breeze on the beam, clear skies, great crew, fresh fish when ever you want, good food, the life of a sailor! Did I mention it is hot, real hot. We can'r open the hatches because of splashes, and even if we did, the air is still hot. Also, we have now lost the use of both handlines, which we just had rebuilt, and our favorite lures, due to poor crimping. And to make it worse, I thought I had the spare parts to rebuild, NOT! We'll bring out the pole tomorrow and pick up our spares in Papeete'. We did catch a nice small ahi this morning, ad Randy rendered it into a fine meal, steaming it with vegetables on a bed of pasta. Favorite time of day now is late afternoon where we get out from under the awning into the fresh breeze, as the Sun hides behind a few clouds. Our days run should start to increase as we have "turned" the corner, made all the easting we need and are heading straight to Ahe. We are a few dyas past halfway, about 200nm from the equator. We will celebrate there, as I expect a visitor. That is all for now, Aloha, David
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Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Fred's input
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Back to normal
June 9, 2015 0200
5 53.1N
147 19.3W 130 noon t0 noon
145 degrees at 5.6kt
Aloha everyone, what a pleasant day! Seems like lots has happened since I last wrote. After motoring much of yesterday, and seeing no improvement on battery charge according to my meter, I was a bit concerned. Fred was driving, by hand, and called me up about 10:30. After awhile, decided to go back to motoring and went back to bed. As our later, when I gor up for my watch, everything read BACK TO NORMAL, what a relief! The winds remained light so we motored into the night and day. I made some bacon and eggs to celebrate and then worked on water maker again, to no avail. It seems to want to work, but water is not flowing to it. Oh well, we'll be fine without. The winds remained light so we continued motoring, skys clear, so we made it laundry day. In this high humidity, takes all day for things to dry, but at least they weren't salty. We had blackened fish and cup/noodles for lunch (Speaking of Noodle, we didn't fish today, in case you were wondering) After we brought the laundry in in the late afternoon, we were able to sail again, most pleasantly. I put together a meal of roast beef, onion, corn and mashed potatoes. Since it had remained so nice, we decided to make it a movie night. We got everything set up in the cockpit, including the pop corn, when Mr. Blackie paid us a visit, Strong winds and rain out of nowhere! I guess Woodie will have to wait. We had to send R to the foredeck as headsail wasn't rolling properly and jib sheet had gotten tangled. it blew and poured for about 20 minutes and has been pleasant since.
Tomorrow we should have all the easting we need and will start heading straight to Ahe,yea! Aloha, David
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5 53.1N
147 19.3W 130 noon t0 noon
145 degrees at 5.6kt
Aloha everyone, what a pleasant day! Seems like lots has happened since I last wrote. After motoring much of yesterday, and seeing no improvement on battery charge according to my meter, I was a bit concerned. Fred was driving, by hand, and called me up about 10:30. After awhile, decided to go back to motoring and went back to bed. As our later, when I gor up for my watch, everything read BACK TO NORMAL, what a relief! The winds remained light so we motored into the night and day. I made some bacon and eggs to celebrate and then worked on water maker again, to no avail. It seems to want to work, but water is not flowing to it. Oh well, we'll be fine without. The winds remained light so we continued motoring, skys clear, so we made it laundry day. In this high humidity, takes all day for things to dry, but at least they weren't salty. We had blackened fish and cup/noodles for lunch (Speaking of Noodle, we didn't fish today, in case you were wondering) After we brought the laundry in in the late afternoon, we were able to sail again, most pleasantly. I put together a meal of roast beef, onion, corn and mashed potatoes. Since it had remained so nice, we decided to make it a movie night. We got everything set up in the cockpit, including the pop corn, when Mr. Blackie paid us a visit, Strong winds and rain out of nowhere! I guess Woodie will have to wait. We had to send R to the foredeck as headsail wasn't rolling properly and jib sheet had gotten tangled. it blew and poured for about 20 minutes and has been pleasant since.
Tomorrow we should have all the easting we need and will start heading straight to Ahe,yea! Aloha, David
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Sunday, June 7, 2015
Fish three days in a row, Humbugs and doldrums.
June 7, 2015 1900hrs
7 45.4N
148 43.5W
5.5 kt @ 140
110nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, writing this early due to some problems that may require hand steering, so can't write it on my watch. Randy caught another nice aku on one of his lures and we enjoyed poke' for lunch and he is ab out to serve up fish pasta for dinner. We ran the engine this morning and it started to screech and stopped charging. The pulley was spinning freely on the shaft so alternator was not spinning. We pulled out spare, but connections did not match. Randy put two different halves together, but we don't see the numbers I'd like to. We have run engine all day and meters show no net gain. Batteries are low due to short in 110 last night. We are hoping wind generator and soar panels will keep us in enough electrical juice. If things look questionable, we will skip Ahe and head straight for Papeete'. Being in the ITCZ "doldrums," the winds were light and we were able to get some things dried out and repaired. No luck with watermaker yet, but will give it one more try. Crew is perfect and we all worked hard today. Enjoyed some showering in the rain. Sailing should be pleasant next few days, but watches could be long if we have to drive to conserve our electrical power. We will see what tomorrow will bring. Aloha, David
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7 45.4N
148 43.5W
5.5 kt @ 140
110nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, writing this early due to some problems that may require hand steering, so can't write it on my watch. Randy caught another nice aku on one of his lures and we enjoyed poke' for lunch and he is ab out to serve up fish pasta for dinner. We ran the engine this morning and it started to screech and stopped charging. The pulley was spinning freely on the shaft so alternator was not spinning. We pulled out spare, but connections did not match. Randy put two different halves together, but we don't see the numbers I'd like to. We have run engine all day and meters show no net gain. Batteries are low due to short in 110 last night. We are hoping wind generator and soar panels will keep us in enough electrical juice. If things look questionable, we will skip Ahe and head straight for Papeete'. Being in the ITCZ "doldrums," the winds were light and we were able to get some things dried out and repaired. No luck with watermaker yet, but will give it one more try. Crew is perfect and we all worked hard today. Enjoyed some showering in the rain. Sailing should be pleasant next few days, but watches could be long if we have to drive to conserve our electrical power. We will see what tomorrow will bring. Aloha, David
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Fresh fish tacos today
8 47.4N
149 50.3W
6.2 kt @ 125
132nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, y midnight watch started with a squall. Seems like my brother, the least experienced open ocean sailor gets all the wind during his night watches. he has seen up 28kt. We are getting to the ITCZ, with light rain this morning and overcast all day, which was a relief from the sun. We caught another fish today a nice aku. Randy tried his lure first, but it was mine that won the day. However, complete kudos go to R who cleaned it and turned it into delicious fish tacos. he followed that with desert of apples dipped into a marshmello dip with cream cheese and cinnamin. We enjoyed a double rainbow and nice sunset also. R and I had a bit of a scare after dinner. We heard the wind generator race and then groan and then we smelled an electrical problem and we thought that we just fried it. Turns out a 110 socket, in a poorly thought out location, fried when the boat healed. Not a big problem. Well, the wind is going funky so I need to get back on deck. Next day should be busy with squalls and motoring in between. We are making progress. It will be one week this afternoon! Aloha, David
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149 50.3W
6.2 kt @ 125
132nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, y midnight watch started with a squall. Seems like my brother, the least experienced open ocean sailor gets all the wind during his night watches. he has seen up 28kt. We are getting to the ITCZ, with light rain this morning and overcast all day, which was a relief from the sun. We caught another fish today a nice aku. Randy tried his lure first, but it was mine that won the day. However, complete kudos go to R who cleaned it and turned it into delicious fish tacos. he followed that with desert of apples dipped into a marshmello dip with cream cheese and cinnamin. We enjoyed a double rainbow and nice sunset also. R and I had a bit of a scare after dinner. We heard the wind generator race and then groan and then we smelled an electrical problem and we thought that we just fried it. Turns out a 110 socket, in a poorly thought out location, fried when the boat healed. Not a big problem. Well, the wind is going funky so I need to get back on deck. Next day should be busy with squalls and motoring in between. We are making progress. It will be one week this afternoon! Aloha, David
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Saturday, June 6, 2015
First fish!
June 6, 2015
10 18.2N
150 57.6W
5.6kt @ 145
125nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, here it is 0 dark thirty, and it is very jerky out here tonight. The wind and waves are making for an uncomfortable ride tonight. You may have noticed that our mileage is down. We are trying to get as much easting as possible and we slow down at night for better rest, both of which are slow. None the less, we seem to be making good progress. Expect to see ITCZ either Sunday or monday. We put our first fishing line out today, Randy dragged his favorite lure for hours and then we tried mine and got a shibi. It was his lucky day as we let him go. Still no luck with water maker and one of our GPS quite, but otherwise, we are doing well. i am lucky to have a great crew who get along well and fun to be with. BTW, I was kidding yesterday when I said I didn't now what they did. Actually, Randy always walks the deck to check on everything, fixes whatever needs fixing and is always ready for whatever I would need him for. Although Fred is much less experienced in the ways of the sea, he is learning fast and does whatever is asked of him. And, if Randy or I goes nuts, we are set as he is a Psychiatrist!
Not much else tonight, Aloha, David
PS looks like GPS started working again!
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10 18.2N
150 57.6W
5.6kt @ 145
125nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, here it is 0 dark thirty, and it is very jerky out here tonight. The wind and waves are making for an uncomfortable ride tonight. You may have noticed that our mileage is down. We are trying to get as much easting as possible and we slow down at night for better rest, both of which are slow. None the less, we seem to be making good progress. Expect to see ITCZ either Sunday or monday. We put our first fishing line out today, Randy dragged his favorite lure for hours and then we tried mine and got a shibi. It was his lucky day as we let him go. Still no luck with water maker and one of our GPS quite, but otherwise, we are doing well. i am lucky to have a great crew who get along well and fun to be with. BTW, I was kidding yesterday when I said I didn't now what they did. Actually, Randy always walks the deck to check on everything, fixes whatever needs fixing and is always ready for whatever I would need him for. Although Fred is much less experienced in the ways of the sea, he is learning fast and does whatever is asked of him. And, if Randy or I goes nuts, we are set as he is a Psychiatrist!
Not much else tonight, Aloha, David
PS looks like GPS started working again!
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Friday, June 5, 2015
Fred's input
Wow, day five. Feeling better, now not taking sea-sickness pills, washing dishes, and brushing my teeth. and taking a shower every other day.Cooking still seems pretty daunting. Going into cockpit, with breeze and horizon, always helps a lot. Yesterday was inersting on watch. I do 8-12, both am and pm. at 1145 Dave was coming on and I got smacked in the face by a flyng fish. We had talked about it, and Randy had found a small one ((total width 1.5") so it didn't scare me much. Other than a fishy face, no residual.
Dave says 30% way to Aha, will turn right (south) in two days. Dave and Randy are great in all ways. I sure enjoy my messagers from Linda, Nick and Fred. It's just incredile the Polynesians did this trip in rafts w/o good sails or navigation except stars. Enough for now, need to get some fresh air Fred.
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Dave says 30% way to Aha, will turn right (south) in two days. Dave and Randy are great in all ways. I sure enjoy my messagers from Linda, Nick and Fred. It's just incredile the Polynesians did this trip in rafts w/o good sails or navigation except stars. Enough for now, need to get some fresh air Fred.
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Enjoying the Southern Cross
June 5, 2015
12 15.0N
152 20.7W
6.5 @ 130
140 nm noon to noon
(Yes, I made a booboo in days run for yesterday, only 135!)
Aloha everyone, we are enjoying life today. The seas have come down so it is drier. Still have a mess to deal with up front, but will deal with that in the ITCZ. Ran engine for short while, wind generator doing most of work. Still have work to do to get water maker working, but i think I have cause figured out. Getting warmer below, but to be expected as we approach the equator. The three of us enjoyed standing in the back of the boat conversing late this afternoon, the sailing conditions were idyllic and we were enjoying life. We even had a beer, something we do not do regularly while on passage.
i'm sure some of you (all one or two of you) wonder what i do all day. My day starts at Midnight, when i go on watch for four hours. I start out in the cockpit, making sure all is set right and to get the feel of things. I then come down to nav desk and write a note to Karin and then write this blog. I then am back in cockpit watching things and reading my book. At four, Randy comes up and I hit the sack for 3-4 hours. I then get up, have some cereal and then, after talking a bit with my crew, start on any projectsI need to handle. These consists of checking and plotting our course, downloading and reviewing the weather gribs, and whatever may need fixing on boat. I go back on watch from 12-4, but this is usually an easy watch as everyone is up. BTW, while on watch, I do not have to drive, the autopilot does as good job of that! We do have lunch, Randy usually handles that and i will again spend time reading. After my watch, i may take a short nap and then I start thinking about dinner. I first have to figure out what and then where, as we have stuff stored all over the place, in every nook and cranny. i then fix it, which can get very warm as the boat is closed up. We enjoy our feast in the cockpit and crew cleans up. I then take a quicky shower and try to get in bed by 8 so I can start it all over again. BTW, i don't know what the hell those other two guys do!
If it stays nice, we plan on putting some lines out and maybe some fresh fish for dinner. We do see a few sea birds and lots of flying fish. All for now, Aloha, David
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12 15.0N
152 20.7W
6.5 @ 130
140 nm noon to noon
(Yes, I made a booboo in days run for yesterday, only 135!)
Aloha everyone, we are enjoying life today. The seas have come down so it is drier. Still have a mess to deal with up front, but will deal with that in the ITCZ. Ran engine for short while, wind generator doing most of work. Still have work to do to get water maker working, but i think I have cause figured out. Getting warmer below, but to be expected as we approach the equator. The three of us enjoyed standing in the back of the boat conversing late this afternoon, the sailing conditions were idyllic and we were enjoying life. We even had a beer, something we do not do regularly while on passage.
i'm sure some of you (all one or two of you) wonder what i do all day. My day starts at Midnight, when i go on watch for four hours. I start out in the cockpit, making sure all is set right and to get the feel of things. I then come down to nav desk and write a note to Karin and then write this blog. I then am back in cockpit watching things and reading my book. At four, Randy comes up and I hit the sack for 3-4 hours. I then get up, have some cereal and then, after talking a bit with my crew, start on any projectsI need to handle. These consists of checking and plotting our course, downloading and reviewing the weather gribs, and whatever may need fixing on boat. I go back on watch from 12-4, but this is usually an easy watch as everyone is up. BTW, while on watch, I do not have to drive, the autopilot does as good job of that! We do have lunch, Randy usually handles that and i will again spend time reading. After my watch, i may take a short nap and then I start thinking about dinner. I first have to figure out what and then where, as we have stuff stored all over the place, in every nook and cranny. i then fix it, which can get very warm as the boat is closed up. We enjoy our feast in the cockpit and crew cleans up. I then take a quicky shower and try to get in bed by 8 so I can start it all over again. BTW, i don't know what the hell those other two guys do!
If it stays nice, we plan on putting some lines out and maybe some fresh fish for dinner. We do see a few sea birds and lots of flying fish. All for now, Aloha, David
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Thursday, June 4, 2015
Randy's input
Left one a waxing moon, than full moon, now waning moon.
sailing into the southern ocean before sunrise it's amazing to see Southern
Cross so high in the sky. Something most wont have oppurtunity to see. Haven't needed to fish yet.Can't wait to to take my new lures for a test dive. Awesome trip so far; great company, conversation inspiring reflection.
No matter what you are doing...have fun
Randy
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sailing into the southern ocean before sunrise it's amazing to see Southern
Cross so high in the sky. Something most wont have oppurtunity to see. Haven't needed to fish yet.Can't wait to to take my new lures for a test dive. Awesome trip so far; great company, conversation inspiring reflection.
No matter what you are doing...have fun
Randy
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It's wet in here!
June 4, 2015 01:40
14 11.4N
153 53.2W
6 knt @133
170 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone. Although we have some pleasant sailing conditions, it hasn't all been fun! It remains wet and bumpy outside, which has transferred to wet and bumpy inside! The foreward cabin has a number of leaks and will require extensive drying out, plus a leak above the computer, which gives concern. The good news is that we are making good progress. Also, I am quite happy with the new wind generator and solar panels. They are keeping us charged up without having to run engine.
Randy fixed dinner tonight, which means he is feeling better! Fred is doing well, too. So the bottom line is that we are doing well, and it is a great adventure. Some of the things we will see and do, can only be done and enjoyed this way. Getting there on our own adds to the joy of the adventure, but, at the moment, I would rather be sleeping next to my beautiful wife in my own bed!
We have not pit a fish line out yet, as no one wants to deal with a dead fish yet! A few birds, but nothing else but blue sky and wet water(did I mention it was wet out
here!) We are looking forward to getting our easting in so we can turn down to a more comfortable angle of sail. But, after that, it will be the doldrums and then upwind again! Oh well, such is the life of a sailor. Aloha for now, David
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14 11.4N
153 53.2W
6 knt @133
170 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone. Although we have some pleasant sailing conditions, it hasn't all been fun! It remains wet and bumpy outside, which has transferred to wet and bumpy inside! The foreward cabin has a number of leaks and will require extensive drying out, plus a leak above the computer, which gives concern. The good news is that we are making good progress. Also, I am quite happy with the new wind generator and solar panels. They are keeping us charged up without having to run engine.
Randy fixed dinner tonight, which means he is feeling better! Fred is doing well, too. So the bottom line is that we are doing well, and it is a great adventure. Some of the things we will see and do, can only be done and enjoyed this way. Getting there on our own adds to the joy of the adventure, but, at the moment, I would rather be sleeping next to my beautiful wife in my own bed!
We have not pit a fish line out yet, as no one wants to deal with a dead fish yet! A few birds, but nothing else but blue sky and wet water(did I mention it was wet out
here!) We are looking forward to getting our easting in so we can turn down to a more comfortable angle of sail. But, after that, it will be the doldrums and then upwind again! Oh well, such is the life of a sailor. Aloha for now, David
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Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Fred's input
first time I've felt like contributing. Haven't read what Dave has written. Here goes! Winds are 25knots, seas 12', water over boat back to dodger with ever wave, everything soaking, and scared shitless. LOL Just kidding!! truth is 18 kt winds, boat speed 6 kts, seas 6-8ft, and only 1 of 20 waves over deck to dodger,
most stuff moist, and only a little scared some of the time. In the daytime, under the dodger,sharing things with David and Randy...fantastic. This is a great adventure, David is a sailing master, and Randy is a mechinical genus. Only way I'm pulling my weight now is doing a third of the watchs. I'm on 8-12, am and pm. No cooking, dihwashing, mechanicl, navigating. Soon it shouyld clm down and I'll feel better. We are making 150-160 mi/day, eatig into the 2450 mi to Papaete. Soon have less winds and then a few days of doldrums and motoring. I'm curious what Dave has in mind for us when we cross the equator. King Neptune gets to haze the pollywogs.
That's all for now. Need to get up to brezze in cockpit.
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most stuff moist, and only a little scared some of the time. In the daytime, under the dodger,sharing things with David and Randy...fantastic. This is a great adventure, David is a sailing master, and Randy is a mechinical genus. Only way I'm pulling my weight now is doing a third of the watchs. I'm on 8-12, am and pm. No cooking, dihwashing, mechanicl, navigating. Soon it shouyld clm down and I'll feel better. We are making 150-160 mi/day, eatig into the 2450 mi to Papaete. Soon have less winds and then a few days of doldrums and motoring. I'm curious what Dave has in mind for us when we cross the equator. King Neptune gets to haze the pollywogs.
That's all for now. Need to get up to brezze in cockpit.
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We had to reing her in!
June 3,2015 01hrs
15 48.6N
155 22.7W
162 nm noon to noon
Ho'onanea and her crew are doing fine. She has been blasting along at 7.5 knts so we put a second reef in the main, but she continued to fly. We had some concerns due to strange engine noises, but our resident mechanic, after careful checking, feels that we will be alright. Have lost prime on watermaker, but should be able to fix that. Finally was able to download our weather gribs, and things continue to look mlld. Crew doing well and we enjoyed some chicken alfredo for dinner. After I went to sleep, wind built to 28knots, so they rolled the jib mostly in and things quieted down. So much so that I actually got some sleep, the wind had slowed way back so nice motion for sleeping. Enjoying the full moon on my night watches and we had our first rain, actually, just a sprinkle. That about sums it up, Aloha, David
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15 48.6N
155 22.7W
162 nm noon to noon
Ho'onanea and her crew are doing fine. She has been blasting along at 7.5 knts so we put a second reef in the main, but she continued to fly. We had some concerns due to strange engine noises, but our resident mechanic, after careful checking, feels that we will be alright. Have lost prime on watermaker, but should be able to fix that. Finally was able to download our weather gribs, and things continue to look mlld. Crew doing well and we enjoyed some chicken alfredo for dinner. After I went to sleep, wind built to 28knots, so they rolled the jib mostly in and things quieted down. So much so that I actually got some sleep, the wind had slowed way back so nice motion for sleeping. Enjoying the full moon on my night watches and we had our first rain, actually, just a sprinkle. That about sums it up, Aloha, David
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Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Another great day of sailing
June 2, 2015, 00:45
17 56.5N
156 50.2W
17 knots out of East
Making 6.2 knts at 150 degrees.
Aloha everyone! We made 150 nm our first day. Motored about 10 hours last night thru the lee of the big is and then the wind slowly filled in out of the east with flat seas. We've had every sailors dream conditions for most of the day doing about 7-7.5 kn with flat seas. Has picked a bit more now and is somewhat bumpy, but we are staying dry.WE still have full main and have partially rolled up the head sail. Fred and Randy saw some fish jumping in the distance, but we have yet to put line in as we have so much food. Crew is doing well, as is the boat. (She is a bit creaky down below, which makes it harder to sleep). Had a shower on the bow today, felt great. Not much other news. Crew enjoyed my beef/cabbage dinner. Aloha, David
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17 56.5N
156 50.2W
17 knots out of East
Making 6.2 knts at 150 degrees.
Aloha everyone! We made 150 nm our first day. Motored about 10 hours last night thru the lee of the big is and then the wind slowly filled in out of the east with flat seas. We've had every sailors dream conditions for most of the day doing about 7-7.5 kn with flat seas. Has picked a bit more now and is somewhat bumpy, but we are staying dry.WE still have full main and have partially rolled up the head sail. Fred and Randy saw some fish jumping in the distance, but we have yet to put line in as we have so much food. Crew is doing well, as is the boat. (She is a bit creaky down below, which makes it harder to sleep). Had a shower on the bow today, felt great. Not much other news. Crew enjoyed my beef/cabbage dinner. Aloha, David
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Monday, June 1, 2015
It's Awesome out here!
Monday, June 1, 2015
20 13.6N, 157 32.4W
We had a wonderful sendoff this morning, with lot's of friends and great weather. Difficult to leave my bride of almost 43 years, behind. The breeze has been about 14-18 knots off the beam with moderate seas. Got around Makapu Pt. in good shape, and have been moving along at 7-7.5 knots most of the time. We motored for about 2 hrs while in the lee of Maui. We had a delightful dinner of Punahou Chicken prepared by Karin before we left. Tonight, we have an almost full moon, cloudless and moderate seas, it doesn't get better than this! My crew are all doing well, couldn't ask any more for the first day. Aloha, David
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20 13.6N, 157 32.4W
We had a wonderful sendoff this morning, with lot's of friends and great weather. Difficult to leave my bride of almost 43 years, behind. The breeze has been about 14-18 knots off the beam with moderate seas. Got around Makapu Pt. in good shape, and have been moving along at 7-7.5 knots most of the time. We motored for about 2 hrs while in the lee of Maui. We had a delightful dinner of Punahou Chicken prepared by Karin before we left. Tonight, we have an almost full moon, cloudless and moderate seas, it doesn't get better than this! My crew are all doing well, couldn't ask any more for the first day. Aloha, David
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