Monday, August 31, 2015
last supper in Haamene
Aug 30, 1830
Moored in Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, it is a bittersweet time in my trip. Yesterday we took Karin, along with Rocky and Darlene, to the airport. I've enjoyed having my best buddy with me for the past 10 weeks. After we dropped them off, we went to Uturoa for some beer and provisioning. Back to boat for some prep and we visited a neighbor who had a 120' schooner who I've spent some time with. The boat is quite impressive, but it has crew quarters that left something to be desired. It was small, airless, and in the bow. Randy could barley fit into the hatch! We then headed out for some dinner of pizza and steak. The steak was huge and we ate half of it for breakfast this morning. This morning was more boat work and cleaning and then Randy and I drove around 3/4 of the Island. We got back in time to pick up laundry and then head to airport. Gregg G. and Beth came in on same flight. We loaded Cathy and Ellis aboard after a quick tour of Uturoa, and then we loaded them aboard while I returned the car. We left the marina and Murphy decided to visit for short while. No water in the exhaust. We unrolled the headsail and turned off the engine and let it cool. I was a bit concerned that we could loose the wind altogether as it was light. However, after Randy looked at things and we restarted the engine, the water was back! We sailed into Haamene Bay for the last time and ate at Hibiscus. We were the only ones there and never know what you wil be served. We had a delightful fish dinner with a wonderful salad. Hard to say goodbye to Leo, as he seems as if he won't be around much longer. Tomorrow is another tour with Toma. I'll keep you posted. Aloha, David
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Moored in Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, it is a bittersweet time in my trip. Yesterday we took Karin, along with Rocky and Darlene, to the airport. I've enjoyed having my best buddy with me for the past 10 weeks. After we dropped them off, we went to Uturoa for some beer and provisioning. Back to boat for some prep and we visited a neighbor who had a 120' schooner who I've spent some time with. The boat is quite impressive, but it has crew quarters that left something to be desired. It was small, airless, and in the bow. Randy could barley fit into the hatch! We then headed out for some dinner of pizza and steak. The steak was huge and we ate half of it for breakfast this morning. This morning was more boat work and cleaning and then Randy and I drove around 3/4 of the Island. We got back in time to pick up laundry and then head to airport. Gregg G. and Beth came in on same flight. We loaded Cathy and Ellis aboard after a quick tour of Uturoa, and then we loaded them aboard while I returned the car. We left the marina and Murphy decided to visit for short while. No water in the exhaust. We unrolled the headsail and turned off the engine and let it cool. I was a bit concerned that we could loose the wind altogether as it was light. However, after Randy looked at things and we restarted the engine, the water was back! We sailed into Haamene Bay for the last time and ate at Hibiscus. We were the only ones there and never know what you wil be served. We had a delightful fish dinner with a wonderful salad. Hard to say goodbye to Leo, as he seems as if he won't be around much longer. Tomorrow is another tour with Toma. I'll keep you posted. Aloha, David
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Friday, August 28, 2015
Back to Haamene
Aug 28, 2015 1715
Anchored at head of Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you all doing well, we certainly are! When I last wrote, we were anchored off the south end of Raiatea. We had a delightful evening, never made it to a movie though. The next morning we motored slowly against a strong headwind. Would have liked to sail, but we were in a relatively narrow part of the lagoon, and short tacking wouls have been difficult. It seemed every time we turned a corner, the wind was still on the nose! We were eventually able to unroll the headsail and eventually ended up in Faaroa Bay, at the end on a mooring. It was a bit rainy and windy, so the exploration of the river was postponed until the morning. We BBQ some chicken and then played some Oh Hell. The morning was beautiful, and the guests took the dinghy up the river, longest one in Tahiti. It is very lush, and parts of it the overhead canopy covers the river. Once they returned, we headed off for Uturoa, the second largest city in Tahiti. We tied up to get some fuel and then moved to a different pier where we could leave the boat for awhile. We checked out the open market for local gifts and then headed to our favorite pizza joint for lunch, beer and wifi. After that, and a few groceries, we headed back to Tahaa and picked up a mooring in Apu Bay. Rocky put some pasta together and then some cribbage. This morning, we motored over to Haamene, again headwinds, and then anchored and had lunch at Mac China. Our local friend Tama, met us and joined us for lunch. He then took our guests on a tour of Tahaa, like he has all of our other guests, while Karin and I took a short hike, and then headed to boat. This is Karin's last day and she wanted some time to organize. She has been here 10 weeks, and we have had a fabulous time together. She will be missed terribly, but such is life. She flys back with Rocky and Darlene, leaving Randy with me. Sunday, Cathy and Ellis fly in. We will spend a few more days back on Tahaa, and then on to Bora. Next weekend, Ellis will leave, and we will prep boat and then start the journey back to Hawaii. All for now. Aloha, David
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Anchored at head of Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you all doing well, we certainly are! When I last wrote, we were anchored off the south end of Raiatea. We had a delightful evening, never made it to a movie though. The next morning we motored slowly against a strong headwind. Would have liked to sail, but we were in a relatively narrow part of the lagoon, and short tacking wouls have been difficult. It seemed every time we turned a corner, the wind was still on the nose! We were eventually able to unroll the headsail and eventually ended up in Faaroa Bay, at the end on a mooring. It was a bit rainy and windy, so the exploration of the river was postponed until the morning. We BBQ some chicken and then played some Oh Hell. The morning was beautiful, and the guests took the dinghy up the river, longest one in Tahiti. It is very lush, and parts of it the overhead canopy covers the river. Once they returned, we headed off for Uturoa, the second largest city in Tahiti. We tied up to get some fuel and then moved to a different pier where we could leave the boat for awhile. We checked out the open market for local gifts and then headed to our favorite pizza joint for lunch, beer and wifi. After that, and a few groceries, we headed back to Tahaa and picked up a mooring in Apu Bay. Rocky put some pasta together and then some cribbage. This morning, we motored over to Haamene, again headwinds, and then anchored and had lunch at Mac China. Our local friend Tama, met us and joined us for lunch. He then took our guests on a tour of Tahaa, like he has all of our other guests, while Karin and I took a short hike, and then headed to boat. This is Karin's last day and she wanted some time to organize. She has been here 10 weeks, and we have had a fabulous time together. She will be missed terribly, but such is life. She flys back with Rocky and Darlene, leaving Randy with me. Sunday, Cathy and Ellis fly in. We will spend a few more days back on Tahaa, and then on to Bora. Next weekend, Ellis will leave, and we will prep boat and then start the journey back to Hawaii. All for now. Aloha, David
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Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Sailing around Raiatea
Aug 25, 1730
Moored behind Haio Island
Aloha Everyone, we are all having a great time. Rocky and I headed into the the pizza joint in the dark. Once you get to the shallows, it can be a bit sketchy as it can be very shallow with coral. The pizza place has a dock in front with a very narrow channel denoted by a few stakes. It has been a month since I did it last so is hard to remember. Anyway, good fun, we ordered our pizza plus a few interesting looking deserts. Got the pizzas back out to the boat in good shape and devoured them. Karin was still not feeling well, so stayed in her cabin. We were early to bed and then got up at an early hour. Randy made some poisson cru for breakfast and then it was anchor up, the hard way. Luckily, with two other guys, it wasn't too bad. We headed out PaiPai Pass and into the Southern Pacific Ocean. We headed south toward Raiatea and reentered the lagoon at Passe Tetuatiare, after a glorious sail in a breeze gusting to 25 knots. This is the same pass K and I had some trouble entering due to strong outgoing current. This time we could enjoy it. We were hoping to anchor by a motu and do some snorkeling. However, due to wind and overcast, we decided to continue on around the island. We thought about anchoring by NaoNao Is, but it was a bit exposed and overcast so we picked up a mooring in the lee of Haio Is., one of our favorites. I was completely protected from the breeze and is a very tranquil and serene anchorage. After a few boat projects, Rocky and I played our first cribbage game. We kept it close, but he triumphed in the end. The guests then took the dinghy in to explore the island while K and I relaxed and cleaned up. We will be throwing some steak on the BBQ and maybe watch a movie later. A tough life, but we are muddling thru. Hope you all are enjoying yours. Aloha,
David and Karin
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Moored behind Haio Island
Aloha Everyone, we are all having a great time. Rocky and I headed into the the pizza joint in the dark. Once you get to the shallows, it can be a bit sketchy as it can be very shallow with coral. The pizza place has a dock in front with a very narrow channel denoted by a few stakes. It has been a month since I did it last so is hard to remember. Anyway, good fun, we ordered our pizza plus a few interesting looking deserts. Got the pizzas back out to the boat in good shape and devoured them. Karin was still not feeling well, so stayed in her cabin. We were early to bed and then got up at an early hour. Randy made some poisson cru for breakfast and then it was anchor up, the hard way. Luckily, with two other guys, it wasn't too bad. We headed out PaiPai Pass and into the Southern Pacific Ocean. We headed south toward Raiatea and reentered the lagoon at Passe Tetuatiare, after a glorious sail in a breeze gusting to 25 knots. This is the same pass K and I had some trouble entering due to strong outgoing current. This time we could enjoy it. We were hoping to anchor by a motu and do some snorkeling. However, due to wind and overcast, we decided to continue on around the island. We thought about anchoring by NaoNao Is, but it was a bit exposed and overcast so we picked up a mooring in the lee of Haio Is., one of our favorites. I was completely protected from the breeze and is a very tranquil and serene anchorage. After a few boat projects, Rocky and I played our first cribbage game. We kept it close, but he triumphed in the end. The guests then took the dinghy in to explore the island while K and I relaxed and cleaned up. We will be throwing some steak on the BBQ and maybe watch a movie later. A tough life, but we are muddling thru. Hope you all are enjoying yours. Aloha,
David and Karin
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Monday, August 24, 2015
Good times
Aug 24, 1800
Anchored in Topuamu Bay
Aloha Everyone! We continue to have a fabulous time sharing this beautiful place with others. Randy, Rocky, and Darlene arrived yesterday morning on an overcast, rainy and windy day. After some breakfast we headed out toward Tahaa. We thought we might anchor on the reef side of the lagoon and do some snorkeling but with the overcast and the time we headed into to Haamene Bay. We picked up a mooring and headed to the village. Chef Bruno was just closing, which we knew, but we stopped by and said hello. After a bit of a walk in the village, we left our mooring and headed toward Hibiscus. Leo took good care of us as we were the only ones there. He prepared some local lagoon fish, which were all quite tasty. It was a bit sad to say good bye as I know Karin has enjoyed dinning at Hibiscus and she will be gone before we can return again. Leo is an older Frenchman who doesn't appear if he will be around all that much longer. It was a bit windy and some rain overnight, but, I think everyone slept well. This morning, Karin didn't feel well, so remained in her berth. We left the mooring and headed around the island, anchoring at the coral gardens area. Our three guests took the dinghy in and really enjoyed the drift dive, returning with much excitement and stories. We motored across the lagoon to Topuamu, and, unluckily, the moorings were all taken.. However, with three guys aboard, we dropped the anchor in 75' and then the guests went ashore to the small store and picked up a few supplies. A bit of a challenge due to the language barrier, but it was a good adventure. We will head ashore soon, to order a few pizza's and will bring them back to the boat. That is all for now, Aloha, David
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Anchored in Topuamu Bay
Aloha Everyone! We continue to have a fabulous time sharing this beautiful place with others. Randy, Rocky, and Darlene arrived yesterday morning on an overcast, rainy and windy day. After some breakfast we headed out toward Tahaa. We thought we might anchor on the reef side of the lagoon and do some snorkeling but with the overcast and the time we headed into to Haamene Bay. We picked up a mooring and headed to the village. Chef Bruno was just closing, which we knew, but we stopped by and said hello. After a bit of a walk in the village, we left our mooring and headed toward Hibiscus. Leo took good care of us as we were the only ones there. He prepared some local lagoon fish, which were all quite tasty. It was a bit sad to say good bye as I know Karin has enjoyed dinning at Hibiscus and she will be gone before we can return again. Leo is an older Frenchman who doesn't appear if he will be around all that much longer. It was a bit windy and some rain overnight, but, I think everyone slept well. This morning, Karin didn't feel well, so remained in her berth. We left the mooring and headed around the island, anchoring at the coral gardens area. Our three guests took the dinghy in and really enjoyed the drift dive, returning with much excitement and stories. We motored across the lagoon to Topuamu, and, unluckily, the moorings were all taken.. However, with three guys aboard, we dropped the anchor in 75' and then the guests went ashore to the small store and picked up a few supplies. A bit of a challenge due to the language barrier, but it was a good adventure. We will head ashore soon, to order a few pizza's and will bring them back to the boat. That is all for now, Aloha, David
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Saturday, August 22, 2015
A cuople of quiet days
Aug 22, 1630
Still tied to guest dock of Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, it has been quiet here since Jane left. We have been doing some cleaning and generally laying low since it is has been raining a bit. Randy, Rocky and Darlene arrive in the morning. Spent some time yesterday aboard a Swedish 100' schooner. Quiet and interesting fellow and interesting boat. We may be back aboard again this evening. His bowsprit was broken due to some mismanagement and is being rebuilt, so we have seen him a few times over the last few months. This morning we headed to town, walked, went to open market, had lunch at our favorit pizza place on the wharf and headed to the grocery store.
There have been many changes noted since we were here last time. The one I think of the most is photos. We have taken hundreds of pictures an some of our crews have down loaded their pictures onto our comp or ipad. We have literally over a thousand pictures. Can you imagine the cost of the film and developing of that film for all of those pictures!? Another big change, of course, is increased development. Some in Uturoa, lots in Bora Bora, particularly the over the water hotels on the east side motus. When we were there before i '91, there were none there and we could go ashore there and look for shells. Another difference is more boats, but particularly, the huge mega yachts, both sail and power. 'We have seen numerous 50million dollar "toys". Wouldn't mind spending a few days on one of those! However, I am clear that they are not having any more fun than Karin and I! All for now. Aloha, David and Karin
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Still tied to guest dock of Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, it has been quiet here since Jane left. We have been doing some cleaning and generally laying low since it is has been raining a bit. Randy, Rocky and Darlene arrive in the morning. Spent some time yesterday aboard a Swedish 100' schooner. Quiet and interesting fellow and interesting boat. We may be back aboard again this evening. His bowsprit was broken due to some mismanagement and is being rebuilt, so we have seen him a few times over the last few months. This morning we headed to town, walked, went to open market, had lunch at our favorit pizza place on the wharf and headed to the grocery store.
There have been many changes noted since we were here last time. The one I think of the most is photos. We have taken hundreds of pictures an some of our crews have down loaded their pictures onto our comp or ipad. We have literally over a thousand pictures. Can you imagine the cost of the film and developing of that film for all of those pictures!? Another big change, of course, is increased development. Some in Uturoa, lots in Bora Bora, particularly the over the water hotels on the east side motus. When we were there before i '91, there were none there and we could go ashore there and look for shells. Another difference is more boats, but particularly, the huge mega yachts, both sail and power. 'We have seen numerous 50million dollar "toys". Wouldn't mind spending a few days on one of those! However, I am clear that they are not having any more fun than Karin and I! All for now. Aloha, David and Karin
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Friday, August 21, 2015
The Russians
Aug 20, 2230
Moored in Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, here we are back in Apooiti Marina. We had a wonderful dinner last night at Hibiscus and we heard about a funny story that had happened a few days earlier. Apparently there was a group of Russians chartering and had come into dinner with the ones we were talking with. They spoke good English and enjoyed drinking to much. One of them complained to the one who was relating the story that he thought the moorings were a little questionable. My friend told him that he had apparently used the tag line that holds the floating buoy to the mooring line which is normally about 1.5 in. So the Russians headed out to retie and returned to cold dinners. After dinner, they realized that whoever tied up the dinghy didn't do so well, so it was gone. My friend said it was probably just a 100 yds or so down the shore due to wind direction. They headed out and did find it as predicted. They got it back to the restaurant and my friends headed back to their boat. A short while later, they here women screaming, my friends look out and find that the Russians were motoring back to their boat and the engine conked out and they were loosing ground trying to paddle back against the wind. They were ending up on the reef. A jet ski from the restaurant came out and towed them to the boat. And then one of the ladies fell in trying to climb aboard the catamaran. Story led to many laughs. And I thought I was having frustations! Anyway, we had a pleasant dinner of lobster, talked with some interesting people, and had a pleasant night of sleep. This morning, we headed back to marina and picked up a car. the girls took off for awhile, while I tried to get hooked up to electrical system. My charging system requires a transformer to bring it down to 110V from the 220 they have here. For some reason, I have to reverse my wires to make it work, which it did in Bora. However, here, it seemed to pop the system, as it did a few weeks ago. It started out okay, and I was very happy about it. I then decided it was time to move transformer into an unexposed area, and all of that led to it pooping the circuit. I walked the long distance to the [ort captain, and he re set it again. It happened again. I had the foresight to borrow a charger from the car rental guy who I have seen numerous times this summer and he let me borrow his just i case. So when mine did not work, I tried his. It didn't work, so felt really frustrated. Then I borrowed a 220V hairdryer to check on the circuit and realized that it probably wasn't working now due to the polarity switch (hey, it worked in Bora!). So I switched polarity and it still didn't work until I realized I was trying wrong plug. Long story short, borrowed charger working, not as well as boat charger would, but functioning. The girls returned from their adventures, we cleaned up, cocktailed ourselves and headed out for dinner. Jane wanted to redeem herself with our card game, Oh Hell, and she did a fine. job. We take her to airport in the morning and then prep for next guests. All is well for now. Aloha, David
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Moored in Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, here we are back in Apooiti Marina. We had a wonderful dinner last night at Hibiscus and we heard about a funny story that had happened a few days earlier. Apparently there was a group of Russians chartering and had come into dinner with the ones we were talking with. They spoke good English and enjoyed drinking to much. One of them complained to the one who was relating the story that he thought the moorings were a little questionable. My friend told him that he had apparently used the tag line that holds the floating buoy to the mooring line which is normally about 1.5 in. So the Russians headed out to retie and returned to cold dinners. After dinner, they realized that whoever tied up the dinghy didn't do so well, so it was gone. My friend said it was probably just a 100 yds or so down the shore due to wind direction. They headed out and did find it as predicted. They got it back to the restaurant and my friends headed back to their boat. A short while later, they here women screaming, my friends look out and find that the Russians were motoring back to their boat and the engine conked out and they were loosing ground trying to paddle back against the wind. They were ending up on the reef. A jet ski from the restaurant came out and towed them to the boat. And then one of the ladies fell in trying to climb aboard the catamaran. Story led to many laughs. And I thought I was having frustations! Anyway, we had a pleasant dinner of lobster, talked with some interesting people, and had a pleasant night of sleep. This morning, we headed back to marina and picked up a car. the girls took off for awhile, while I tried to get hooked up to electrical system. My charging system requires a transformer to bring it down to 110V from the 220 they have here. For some reason, I have to reverse my wires to make it work, which it did in Bora. However, here, it seemed to pop the system, as it did a few weeks ago. It started out okay, and I was very happy about it. I then decided it was time to move transformer into an unexposed area, and all of that led to it pooping the circuit. I walked the long distance to the [ort captain, and he re set it again. It happened again. I had the foresight to borrow a charger from the car rental guy who I have seen numerous times this summer and he let me borrow his just i case. So when mine did not work, I tried his. It didn't work, so felt really frustrated. Then I borrowed a 220V hairdryer to check on the circuit and realized that it probably wasn't working now due to the polarity switch (hey, it worked in Bora!). So I switched polarity and it still didn't work until I realized I was trying wrong plug. Long story short, borrowed charger working, not as well as boat charger would, but functioning. The girls returned from their adventures, we cleaned up, cocktailed ourselves and headed out for dinner. Jane wanted to redeem herself with our card game, Oh Hell, and she did a fine. job. We take her to airport in the morning and then prep for next guests. All is well for now. Aloha, David
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Thursday, August 20, 2015
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Back to Tahaa
Aug 19, 1615
moored off of Hibiscus Restaurant in Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as nothing but a pleasant sail happened today. We left Bora mid morning and entered the pass on Tahaa four hours later after a most enjoyable sail. Decided not to fish as we had plans to eat out. Girls are getting ahead of me regards the Hinano, they started hitting it at 11AM! Karin and I each had a nice nap on the way back. We will be having lobster tonight at Hibiscu restaurant. Sounds good to me. We head back to mariana tomorrow so that we can get Jane to airport Friday morning. Stay tuned. Aloha, David
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moored off of Hibiscus Restaurant in Haamene Bay
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as nothing but a pleasant sail happened today. We left Bora mid morning and entered the pass on Tahaa four hours later after a most enjoyable sail. Decided not to fish as we had plans to eat out. Girls are getting ahead of me regards the Hinano, they started hitting it at 11AM! Karin and I each had a nice nap on the way back. We will be having lobster tonight at Hibiscu restaurant. Sounds good to me. We head back to mariana tomorrow so that we can get Jane to airport Friday morning. Stay tuned. Aloha, David
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All is well
Aug 18, 2015, 1715
Moored off of MaiKai Marina
Aloha Everyone, a most delightful day! A most pleasant evening and a beautiful morning. Whats not to like about looking out from your boat and find you are sitting in a pool of turquoise clear water with a white sandy bottom. The sun rises over the lush green hills providing a wonderful contrast to the aqua color. The mountains are clear, which is unusual. We upped anchor (easy when in only 10') and motored back. It was a bit scary as we draw 6'4" and we were reading 5.2'. I guess I need to recalibrate my depth sounder! Anyway, we went by the Four Seasons and the girls waved to Jennifer Anniston. We came back to town, picked up a mooring and into marina. We walked to town and checked on the engine which was ready. We completed our errands, did some shopping, and Jane changed her flight. We paid the engine repairman and they drove me back to the marina with the engine. It worked well. Once back to the boat, I noticed a gorgeous new boat, 135', Destination. I grabbed Karin and we took off to check it out. First time I have been confident with the outboard to do that. We had another great meal at the MaiKai Marina and will head back to Tahaa tomorrow. Looks like we will be lucky with some Southerly breeze. That's all for now. Aloha, David and Karin PS I finally out what I needed to do to get some pictures out. Will try to send a few more in a day or so.
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Moored off of MaiKai Marina
Aloha Everyone, a most delightful day! A most pleasant evening and a beautiful morning. Whats not to like about looking out from your boat and find you are sitting in a pool of turquoise clear water with a white sandy bottom. The sun rises over the lush green hills providing a wonderful contrast to the aqua color. The mountains are clear, which is unusual. We upped anchor (easy when in only 10') and motored back. It was a bit scary as we draw 6'4" and we were reading 5.2'. I guess I need to recalibrate my depth sounder! Anyway, we went by the Four Seasons and the girls waved to Jennifer Anniston. We came back to town, picked up a mooring and into marina. We walked to town and checked on the engine which was ready. We completed our errands, did some shopping, and Jane changed her flight. We paid the engine repairman and they drove me back to the marina with the engine. It worked well. Once back to the boat, I noticed a gorgeous new boat, 135', Destination. I grabbed Karin and we took off to check it out. First time I have been confident with the outboard to do that. We had another great meal at the MaiKai Marina and will head back to Tahaa tomorrow. Looks like we will be lucky with some Southerly breeze. That's all for now. Aloha, David and Karin PS I finally out what I needed to do to get some pictures out. Will try to send a few more in a day or so.
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Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Yikes, Sharks!
August 17, 1900
Anchored east side of Bora in 10' by Pt. Faroone
Aloha everyone, we continue to have a great time. We had a great dinner last night, listened to some music and hit the sack at an early hour. I have a bit of chest congestion and minor hack, but not letting it slow me down. We were up and at um this morning and headed in to the Lagoonarium. This is an area that has been screened off that contains numerous sharks, rays, ulua, papio, etc., and all sorts of tropical fish. It is relatively shallow and somewhat like diving into a giant aquarium. But it is very nice, safe and secure. Jane was a bit hesitant to get in with sharks, but she did,and had a great time. We could touch the rays. Back to the boat, I called re:outboard and was told it should be ready tomorrow, so we headed further south and anchored in 10' of crystal clear water just inside pt Faroone. We had some corn beef and cabbage for dinner, played some cards (oh Hell), and had just a delightful time. Tomorrow, we head back to Vaitape, get the engine, groceries and some window shopping. Plan is to head back to Raiatea on Wed. Until then, hope you all are enjoying your life and are doing well. Aloha, David and Karin
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Anchored east side of Bora in 10' by Pt. Faroone
Aloha everyone, we continue to have a great time. We had a great dinner last night, listened to some music and hit the sack at an early hour. I have a bit of chest congestion and minor hack, but not letting it slow me down. We were up and at um this morning and headed in to the Lagoonarium. This is an area that has been screened off that contains numerous sharks, rays, ulua, papio, etc., and all sorts of tropical fish. It is relatively shallow and somewhat like diving into a giant aquarium. But it is very nice, safe and secure. Jane was a bit hesitant to get in with sharks, but she did,and had a great time. We could touch the rays. Back to the boat, I called re:outboard and was told it should be ready tomorrow, so we headed further south and anchored in 10' of crystal clear water just inside pt Faroone. We had some corn beef and cabbage for dinner, played some cards (oh Hell), and had just a delightful time. Tomorrow, we head back to Vaitape, get the engine, groceries and some window shopping. Plan is to head back to Raiatea on Wed. Until then, hope you all are enjoying your life and are doing well. Aloha, David and Karin
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Sunday, August 16, 2015
A perfect day
Aug 16, 1830
Anchored off Lagoonarium
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you well and happy. The plan was to head to the East side of Bora yesterday, but as we passed BoraBora YC, it was raining and very overcast with minimal visibility. Seemed like a good time to reassess the plan. We pulled into the YC and picked up a mooring and relaxed. We ate some lunch, I prepared an artichoke salad, which turned out quite tasty. We read, and I had a great nap. We eventually headed ashore, hiked a short ways to an ancient marae, and then headed to YC for cocktails, wifi and a delightful dinner. This morning we awoke to more rain, but it looked to be clearing so we headed to the east side. We anchored off the lagoonarium, a commercial adventure featuring sharks, etc. in an enclosed area. We had planned on heading in by 1pm, but it started to rain some more. Time for a nap! when I awoke, things were clearing and I got into dinghy and cleaned the waterline. We rowed into the motu to reconnoiter the situation. We met the Tahitian man who has owned the place for 30 years. They had closed about a half an hour ago, but he let us walk around some and we walked out to the the edge of the surrounding reef. On way back, as we rowed in 5-10' of clear water, we saw numerous rays. The girls put on their masks and dunked their heads to check out the rays. I so enjoyed their enthusiasm. Once back to the boat, the girls went snorkeling (I was feeling some congestion in chest so thought some medicine on ice, was the better call.) They even spent some time cleaning the bottom, how cool is that! We were anchored in 10' of turquoise clear water. We enjoyed a wonderful sunset, cocktails, a hermit crab running around the cockpit and great tranquility. And then Jennifer Anniston and Justin stopped by. (They were only a mile away!)
We have some chicken on the BBQ and some Crosby, Stills, and Nash on the music. Life is good. Some have been lucky to have hours of perfection in their lives, others days, I've been enjoying months of it! Tomorrow, we will head back to the Lagoonarium, and the back to Vaitape and hope the outboard engine is ready. Aloha, David and Karin
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Anchored off Lagoonarium
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you well and happy. The plan was to head to the East side of Bora yesterday, but as we passed BoraBora YC, it was raining and very overcast with minimal visibility. Seemed like a good time to reassess the plan. We pulled into the YC and picked up a mooring and relaxed. We ate some lunch, I prepared an artichoke salad, which turned out quite tasty. We read, and I had a great nap. We eventually headed ashore, hiked a short ways to an ancient marae, and then headed to YC for cocktails, wifi and a delightful dinner. This morning we awoke to more rain, but it looked to be clearing so we headed to the east side. We anchored off the lagoonarium, a commercial adventure featuring sharks, etc. in an enclosed area. We had planned on heading in by 1pm, but it started to rain some more. Time for a nap! when I awoke, things were clearing and I got into dinghy and cleaned the waterline. We rowed into the motu to reconnoiter the situation. We met the Tahitian man who has owned the place for 30 years. They had closed about a half an hour ago, but he let us walk around some and we walked out to the the edge of the surrounding reef. On way back, as we rowed in 5-10' of clear water, we saw numerous rays. The girls put on their masks and dunked their heads to check out the rays. I so enjoyed their enthusiasm. Once back to the boat, the girls went snorkeling (I was feeling some congestion in chest so thought some medicine on ice, was the better call.) They even spent some time cleaning the bottom, how cool is that! We were anchored in 10' of turquoise clear water. We enjoyed a wonderful sunset, cocktails, a hermit crab running around the cockpit and great tranquility. And then Jennifer Anniston and Justin stopped by. (They were only a mile away!)
We have some chicken on the BBQ and some Crosby, Stills, and Nash on the music. Life is good. Some have been lucky to have hours of perfection in their lives, others days, I've been enjoying months of it! Tomorrow, we will head back to the Lagoonarium, and the back to Vaitape and hope the outboard engine is ready. Aloha, David and Karin
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Friday, August 14, 2015
Another fun day
August 14, 2015, 0830
on Mooring off of Bloody Mary's
Aloha Everyone, I will try to catch you all up on our adventures. When I last wrote, we were sailing to Bora and what a nice sail it was! 3 hours pass to pass, no water on deck. We picked up a mooring at Maikai Marina and got the dinghy and engine back in the water. I was confident the outboard would work after I was able to get it started while it was on board, but no such luck. It started once, ran for 30 sec., and refused to start again. We had lunch aboard and read. I watched my wife's jaw drop as she saw one of the world's biggest sailboats go by. It had a plane on the afterdeck! We eventually headed in, had a cocktail, used the wifi and then had a nice dinner. Not only was the food good, but we very much enjoyed the live music. It was american, played and sung by a young hapa man, and backed up by his father on the guitar. (My apologies, we have tried to download pictures while in wifi, but no luck. We are hoping some of our previous crew will do so for us, HINT.) Yesterday morning, we headed back in, took the engine off, and hicked to town. Talked to engine shop and then we rented these cute little electric cars, two passenger each, and drove around the island. We hiked up to one of the sets of cannons our military put up in'42-43. What a chore that must have been, but what great view. The original path to g there is closed, so it was a good 30 min. hike. We had a wonderful lunch at Maitai hotel, on the beach overlooking the turquoise lagoon. Most delightful. After returning cars, the girls went shopping, and I got the engine to the shop, and hope to hear about it today. My biggest concern is they telling me they can fix it next week! Here is hoping! We then headed over to Bloody Mary's and picked up a mooring there. It just started to rain prior to us rowing in, but it stopped in time, and we had a wonderful meal there, again. The rain held off until we got back to boat, and then both rain and wind picked up, but we were all snug by then. I was hoping to motor around the big sailboat that was anchored in this area, but they have left overnight. We will take on some water at Blood Mary's and, hopefully, drop off the watermaker to my new best friend who had helped us with the engine two weeks earlier. From there, we'll probably snorkel off Toopua Is., check out the Hilton and who knows.
Hope everyone of you are doing well and will motivated to follow your dreams, Aloha, David and Karin
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on Mooring off of Bloody Mary's
Aloha Everyone, I will try to catch you all up on our adventures. When I last wrote, we were sailing to Bora and what a nice sail it was! 3 hours pass to pass, no water on deck. We picked up a mooring at Maikai Marina and got the dinghy and engine back in the water. I was confident the outboard would work after I was able to get it started while it was on board, but no such luck. It started once, ran for 30 sec., and refused to start again. We had lunch aboard and read. I watched my wife's jaw drop as she saw one of the world's biggest sailboats go by. It had a plane on the afterdeck! We eventually headed in, had a cocktail, used the wifi and then had a nice dinner. Not only was the food good, but we very much enjoyed the live music. It was american, played and sung by a young hapa man, and backed up by his father on the guitar. (My apologies, we have tried to download pictures while in wifi, but no luck. We are hoping some of our previous crew will do so for us, HINT.) Yesterday morning, we headed back in, took the engine off, and hicked to town. Talked to engine shop and then we rented these cute little electric cars, two passenger each, and drove around the island. We hiked up to one of the sets of cannons our military put up in'42-43. What a chore that must have been, but what great view. The original path to g there is closed, so it was a good 30 min. hike. We had a wonderful lunch at Maitai hotel, on the beach overlooking the turquoise lagoon. Most delightful. After returning cars, the girls went shopping, and I got the engine to the shop, and hope to hear about it today. My biggest concern is they telling me they can fix it next week! Here is hoping! We then headed over to Bloody Mary's and picked up a mooring there. It just started to rain prior to us rowing in, but it stopped in time, and we had a wonderful meal there, again. The rain held off until we got back to boat, and then both rain and wind picked up, but we were all snug by then. I was hoping to motor around the big sailboat that was anchored in this area, but they have left overnight. We will take on some water at Blood Mary's and, hopefully, drop off the watermaker to my new best friend who had helped us with the engine two weeks earlier. From there, we'll probably snorkel off Toopua Is., check out the Hilton and who knows.
Hope everyone of you are doing well and will motivated to follow your dreams, Aloha, David and Karin
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Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Back to Bora
Aug 12(so says my phone! )0845
1/3 way to Bora Bora
Aloha Everyone, my how time passes when you are having fun. We had a pleasant night at Patio, primarily an evening of reading and a nice sleep. We then headed off to the coral gardens with a bit of overcast sky. We were first ones there and found a nice sandy place to anchor and we were ready to go. However, the outboard motor wasn't, so we took it off and rowed in. The drift snorkel was the best yet, very clear water, minimal current and the sun came out. We did the dive twice and I enjoyed watching a small octopus. Jane got a kick out of it also. After a bit of a walk pulling the dinghy and a hard row, we were back to boat. After a few more pulls on the engine, to no avail, we decided to put the dinghy on the foredeck as she had about 1.5 inches of growth on the bottom, that didn't want to come off with me scrubbing underwater. i figured a little sun and elbow grease, it would be easier. We then headed across the way to Tapuamu Bay, where it is quiet and delightful. I BBQ'd some steaks and we started to watch a movie. However, comp claimed disk was damaged half way thru, and would not let us watch the exciting conclusion. We had a very pleasant sleep, and I awoke early this morning and started prepping for our short passage. We entered the pass about 7:45 and this is our third trip to Bora this year, but the first with wind. We are enjoying very nice sailing and should be situated in Bora by noon. I was even able to get outboard started and dinghy bottom cleaned. Life is good. Will hope to do a few different things this time around. Stay tuned for further adventures. Aloha, David and Karin
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1/3 way to Bora Bora
Aloha Everyone, my how time passes when you are having fun. We had a pleasant night at Patio, primarily an evening of reading and a nice sleep. We then headed off to the coral gardens with a bit of overcast sky. We were first ones there and found a nice sandy place to anchor and we were ready to go. However, the outboard motor wasn't, so we took it off and rowed in. The drift snorkel was the best yet, very clear water, minimal current and the sun came out. We did the dive twice and I enjoyed watching a small octopus. Jane got a kick out of it also. After a bit of a walk pulling the dinghy and a hard row, we were back to boat. After a few more pulls on the engine, to no avail, we decided to put the dinghy on the foredeck as she had about 1.5 inches of growth on the bottom, that didn't want to come off with me scrubbing underwater. i figured a little sun and elbow grease, it would be easier. We then headed across the way to Tapuamu Bay, where it is quiet and delightful. I BBQ'd some steaks and we started to watch a movie. However, comp claimed disk was damaged half way thru, and would not let us watch the exciting conclusion. We had a very pleasant sleep, and I awoke early this morning and started prepping for our short passage. We entered the pass about 7:45 and this is our third trip to Bora this year, but the first with wind. We are enjoying very nice sailing and should be situated in Bora by noon. I was even able to get outboard started and dinghy bottom cleaned. Life is good. Will hope to do a few different things this time around. Stay tuned for further adventures. Aloha, David and Karin
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Monday, August 10, 2015
Another great day!
Aug 10, 2015 1815
on mooring off of Patio, Tahaa
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you all well and happy. We picked up Jane yesterday and then headed off to Haamene Bay on Tahaa. Being from Hawaii, we do have a small problem. The flight from Hawaii is Sat, arriving late at night. Next morning you must then catch a flight to Raiatea so we can pick you up. Our first two trips with guests involved my brother and friends from Seattle area, so we started the trip more midweek and established what we thought was an ideal plan. First day Haamene Bay for dinner. However, Chef Bruno is only opened for lunch on Sunday, and closed on Monday, so it means we have to hightail it to the bay so we can have a nice mid day meal and then eat light in the bay in the evening. Such a complex situation to have to deal with! Anyway, we got Jane there for a delightful dinner and then a relaxing evening on the boat, where we played some cards (Oh Hell), where my wife continued her winning ways. This morning, we met Tama, our tour guide and friend, who drove us around to include a pearl farm and vanilla plantation He is such an interesting man, we totally enjoy our time with him. We finished the tour at Mac China for some more Poisson Cru and then left our mooring and sailed around the north end of the island to Patio, where we picked up a mooring. Tomorrow, coral gardens again, then Wed, to Bora. Jane brought some things down from Randy, so our systems are all working nominally. All for now, I will try to do a blog on way to Bora. Aloha, David
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on mooring off of Patio, Tahaa
Aloha Everyone, hope this finds you all well and happy. We picked up Jane yesterday and then headed off to Haamene Bay on Tahaa. Being from Hawaii, we do have a small problem. The flight from Hawaii is Sat, arriving late at night. Next morning you must then catch a flight to Raiatea so we can pick you up. Our first two trips with guests involved my brother and friends from Seattle area, so we started the trip more midweek and established what we thought was an ideal plan. First day Haamene Bay for dinner. However, Chef Bruno is only opened for lunch on Sunday, and closed on Monday, so it means we have to hightail it to the bay so we can have a nice mid day meal and then eat light in the bay in the evening. Such a complex situation to have to deal with! Anyway, we got Jane there for a delightful dinner and then a relaxing evening on the boat, where we played some cards (Oh Hell), where my wife continued her winning ways. This morning, we met Tama, our tour guide and friend, who drove us around to include a pearl farm and vanilla plantation He is such an interesting man, we totally enjoy our time with him. We finished the tour at Mac China for some more Poisson Cru and then left our mooring and sailed around the north end of the island to Patio, where we picked up a mooring. Tomorrow, coral gardens again, then Wed, to Bora. Jane brought some things down from Randy, so our systems are all working nominally. All for now, I will try to do a blog on way to Bora. Aloha, David
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Sunday, August 9, 2015
Apooiti Marina
Aug 8, 2015 1700
Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as nothing to exciting to report. We made it back to the marina yesterday, hoping for the guest dock, but it was full. We picked up a mooring outside and headed to the office. We always forget that many places shut down completely for an hour or two at lunch time, as was the case of the port captain. Therefore, we picked up our rental car (we are friendly with manager, he is close by so picks us up, and fairly cheap) and headed into town for our favorite lunch spot. Who can complain about pizza, beer and wifi. Once we got back to marina, port captain gave us a slip, but we had to shoehorn ourselves in due to the array of bow anchors. We had help with someone in a dinghy to push the bow around. We got in and got settled, met an interesting Swede who is singlehanding around the World, including Antartica. His bow got beat after his anchor got caught in some coral, so he was doing some repairs. We had him aboard for a beer, a very interesting man (Karin is 25% Swede). Some pasta last night and a quiet night of reading. Today, I got a haircut sitting next to Karin, new experience. A few errands in Uturoa, provisioning, and back to boat for clean up, watering, etc. Tomorrow Jane comes in and we will be of for some more adventures. Hope everyone is well who is reading this, Aloha for now, David BTW, attempted to send a few pictures, not sure they made it out. Wifi is very slow here.
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Apooiti Marina
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as nothing to exciting to report. We made it back to the marina yesterday, hoping for the guest dock, but it was full. We picked up a mooring outside and headed to the office. We always forget that many places shut down completely for an hour or two at lunch time, as was the case of the port captain. Therefore, we picked up our rental car (we are friendly with manager, he is close by so picks us up, and fairly cheap) and headed into town for our favorite lunch spot. Who can complain about pizza, beer and wifi. Once we got back to marina, port captain gave us a slip, but we had to shoehorn ourselves in due to the array of bow anchors. We had help with someone in a dinghy to push the bow around. We got in and got settled, met an interesting Swede who is singlehanding around the World, including Antartica. His bow got beat after his anchor got caught in some coral, so he was doing some repairs. We had him aboard for a beer, a very interesting man (Karin is 25% Swede). Some pasta last night and a quiet night of reading. Today, I got a haircut sitting next to Karin, new experience. A few errands in Uturoa, provisioning, and back to boat for clean up, watering, etc. Tomorrow Jane comes in and we will be of for some more adventures. Hope everyone is well who is reading this, Aloha for now, David BTW, attempted to send a few pictures, not sure they made it out. Wifi is very slow here.
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Thursday, August 6, 2015
Divine Pleasance
August 6, 2015 1730
moored in Haamene Bay
Aloha everyone, I titled this from the name given to a religious affiliation formed by a good friend. It just seemed right for the day. After a pleasant dinner last night and half of a movie, we had a delightful night of sleep. I am usually a controlling kind of guy, but turned that over to Karin these past few days. At least three or four times today I wondered what day it was. Life is good! After chatting with Greg for awhile, we loosened our mooring and headed for Haamene Bay. We picked up a mooring and headed in for some Mac China Poisson Cru. We then took a hike, picked up a few minor supplies and said hello to Chef Bruno and made reservations for Sunday with Jane Sawyer. Back to boat, a few minor chores, cocktails, showers, reading and life is good. We shall finish our movie tonight and hit the berth early. In the morning, we head back to the marina, a prepare for our visitor and look for glow plugs, haircut, and re-provisioning. Although you all have mentioned how you have been enjoying the blog, I feel a bit wordless to express the pleasantness we are enjoying. The temperature has been perfect, the beauty idyllic and dramatic, and the pace of life ever so peaceful. It will be hard to leave. All for now, Aloha, David
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moored in Haamene Bay
Aloha everyone, I titled this from the name given to a religious affiliation formed by a good friend. It just seemed right for the day. After a pleasant dinner last night and half of a movie, we had a delightful night of sleep. I am usually a controlling kind of guy, but turned that over to Karin these past few days. At least three or four times today I wondered what day it was. Life is good! After chatting with Greg for awhile, we loosened our mooring and headed for Haamene Bay. We picked up a mooring and headed in for some Mac China Poisson Cru. We then took a hike, picked up a few minor supplies and said hello to Chef Bruno and made reservations for Sunday with Jane Sawyer. Back to boat, a few minor chores, cocktails, showers, reading and life is good. We shall finish our movie tonight and hit the berth early. In the morning, we head back to the marina, a prepare for our visitor and look for glow plugs, haircut, and re-provisioning. Although you all have mentioned how you have been enjoying the blog, I feel a bit wordless to express the pleasantness we are enjoying. The temperature has been perfect, the beauty idyllic and dramatic, and the pace of life ever so peaceful. It will be hard to leave. All for now, Aloha, David
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Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Back to our favorite Island
Aug. 5, 0900
Moored in Apu Bay
Aloha everyone, Ah Life is grand! We had a great sail back to Taaha yesterday, a bit of wind, but boat was happy! It took us about 4 hours from pass to pass, our quickest yet, since we did not have to motor. We then picked up a mooring in Apu bay, the wind was from the South, so not too protected, but, it was comfortable. While getting things back together after the sail, (sail covers, dinghy engine back on,etc.) I realized that Greg Gillette was moored close by. when I aw him on deck, I yelled over and he came over in his dinghy. The three of us chatted for over an hour with some cold Hinano and swapped many stories. He will be leaving his boat here, as he has a friend ashore to watch the boat, while he returns to Hawaii for three weeks.(a few hours later) We have just returned from visiting with Greg, and his friend, Richard Postman, a very interesting man. He has lived here for many years doing primarily sailing and fishing charters. We also took a walk and a had an ice cream cone.
Last night we found a new favorite restaurant, Le Ficus, just ashore from where we are moored. Only one other group of sailors came, so there were five of us. The owners cousin met us and seated us and then he sat down and played the guitar. When the others were seated, the owner/chef, a local tahitian, brought out numerous plates of local food, buffet style. He also provided us with a rum punch. The food was fantastic and varied. While we ate, he and his cousin played their guitar and ukulele and sang. We ate in a very nice thatched hut. A most pleasant evening.
I love days like today. We have no plans! We may move, we may not. I may get a boat project done, maybe not, life is good, and I will enjoy the time with Karin. Anyway, all is well on the good ship Ho'onanea. Aloha, David
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Moored in Apu Bay
Aloha everyone, Ah Life is grand! We had a great sail back to Taaha yesterday, a bit of wind, but boat was happy! It took us about 4 hours from pass to pass, our quickest yet, since we did not have to motor. We then picked up a mooring in Apu bay, the wind was from the South, so not too protected, but, it was comfortable. While getting things back together after the sail, (sail covers, dinghy engine back on,etc.) I realized that Greg Gillette was moored close by. when I aw him on deck, I yelled over and he came over in his dinghy. The three of us chatted for over an hour with some cold Hinano and swapped many stories. He will be leaving his boat here, as he has a friend ashore to watch the boat, while he returns to Hawaii for three weeks.(a few hours later) We have just returned from visiting with Greg, and his friend, Richard Postman, a very interesting man. He has lived here for many years doing primarily sailing and fishing charters. We also took a walk and a had an ice cream cone.
Last night we found a new favorite restaurant, Le Ficus, just ashore from where we are moored. Only one other group of sailors came, so there were five of us. The owners cousin met us and seated us and then he sat down and played the guitar. When the others were seated, the owner/chef, a local tahitian, brought out numerous plates of local food, buffet style. He also provided us with a rum punch. The food was fantastic and varied. While we ate, he and his cousin played their guitar and ukulele and sang. We ate in a very nice thatched hut. A most pleasant evening.
I love days like today. We have no plans! We may move, we may not. I may get a boat project done, maybe not, life is good, and I will enjoy the time with Karin. Anyway, all is well on the good ship Ho'onanea. Aloha, David
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Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Back at sea again
Aug 4, 2015 1000
Off Bora Bora
Aloha everyone, here we are at sea again. We are heading back to Taaha, then Raiatea, after a few days. We have made numerous interisland passages since we have arrived in the Societies, but this is the first one with some wind! I am thankful for that. We have about 18-20 knt from the South, which works out well for where we are going.
Our plan a few days ago was to leave Maikai Marina and head over to the east side. We had gotten up, gone for a walk, listened to the beautiful acapella singing at the church, and picked up some supplies. Bu the time we returned, it had started to rain, and continued the rest of the day. We ended up staying put, reading, relaxing and did a few boat projects, main one being replacing the engine stop cable which had broken. Errol brought a new one down for me via Randy. Next morning, didn't look lots better, so we headed into marina to handle some wifi stuff and we had a most pleasant and relaxing lunch of a few hours. It had started to clear by the time we got back to boat so we dropped our mooring and went up to east side of Toopua is., picked up a temp. mooring, and went snorkeling for awhile. The water was exceptionally clear with lots of coral and fish. We then went on over to the Hilton, where we thought we would anchor for the night, and Kaimiloa was there. They have lots of family with them, about 8, so we stopped by just to say hello. We had a nice dinner of some blackened ahi and then another game of cribbage. I lead all the way until the end, where my bride pulled it out. At least she didn't skunk me again! We hit the sack early and had a pleasant sleep. Up early to prep for passage, Nottages leaving a bit before us. They are off to Raiatea, and I'm not sure if we will see them again.
Our next guest, Jane Sawyer, who has been on standby due to our engine problems, arrives Sunday Morning. We will get into our marina in a few days to prep for her arrival. Hope all is well back in Hawaii. Sounds like you will be somewhat bypassed by the hurricane, thank goodness. All for now, Aloha, David
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Off Bora Bora
Aloha everyone, here we are at sea again. We are heading back to Taaha, then Raiatea, after a few days. We have made numerous interisland passages since we have arrived in the Societies, but this is the first one with some wind! I am thankful for that. We have about 18-20 knt from the South, which works out well for where we are going.
Our plan a few days ago was to leave Maikai Marina and head over to the east side. We had gotten up, gone for a walk, listened to the beautiful acapella singing at the church, and picked up some supplies. Bu the time we returned, it had started to rain, and continued the rest of the day. We ended up staying put, reading, relaxing and did a few boat projects, main one being replacing the engine stop cable which had broken. Errol brought a new one down for me via Randy. Next morning, didn't look lots better, so we headed into marina to handle some wifi stuff and we had a most pleasant and relaxing lunch of a few hours. It had started to clear by the time we got back to boat so we dropped our mooring and went up to east side of Toopua is., picked up a temp. mooring, and went snorkeling for awhile. The water was exceptionally clear with lots of coral and fish. We then went on over to the Hilton, where we thought we would anchor for the night, and Kaimiloa was there. They have lots of family with them, about 8, so we stopped by just to say hello. We had a nice dinner of some blackened ahi and then another game of cribbage. I lead all the way until the end, where my bride pulled it out. At least she didn't skunk me again! We hit the sack early and had a pleasant sleep. Up early to prep for passage, Nottages leaving a bit before us. They are off to Raiatea, and I'm not sure if we will see them again.
Our next guest, Jane Sawyer, who has been on standby due to our engine problems, arrives Sunday Morning. We will get into our marina in a few days to prep for her arrival. Hope all is well back in Hawaii. Sounds like you will be somewhat bypassed by the hurricane, thank goodness. All for now, Aloha, David
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Sunday, August 2, 2015
Qu'est-ce qu'ils faison?
After reading all of the recent blogs, you may all be wondering, what in the heck are they doing down there, besides boat repairs and projects? Well, in between breakdowns, we have managed to meet some very nice people, from cruisers to Tahitian locals, in fact we have met a lot more locals and fewer cruisers compared to our '91 trip. We also have had delightful visits from friends and relatives, including David's bro Fred and wife Linda, Nancy and Dick D'Archangel and Andy and Errol Yim, who left yesterday to return to HI. On Tahaa, we have eaten twice at Hibiscus Restaurant, which is run by a local Frenchman, Leo, and his wife Lolita, who is Tahitian. The last time we ate there, it was Lolita's birthday, and they laid out a wonderful buffet which we shared with a their friends and relatives. When Dick and Nancy were here, we set out for a hike across Tahaa Island where we met Tama, who picked us up in his car and took us on a tour, introducing us to a local pearl and vanilla farm. He is very entertaining and has given us insight into Tahitian culture; we have been to his house where we met his wife and son and he gifted us with fruits and herbs from their garden. Every island is busier and more modernized than our last visit; Tahaa seems quieter and more serene than the other islands; we can see why Noodle and Lori enjoy visiting there so much. That's it for now. Nana! Karin
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Saturday, August 1, 2015
Back in business
August 1, 2015
Moored off of MaiKai Marina
Aloha Everyone, it has been a frustrating and difficult past few days, but it looks like things may be back to normal. I feel, in general, we were lucky. First bit of luck is that when we entered the lagoon, the marina we are now moored in had no moorings available, forcing us to Bloody Mary's. Not only a quieter anchorage, but we were able to get a hold of a top mechanic, the former engineer from the now defunct Hotel Bora Bora, and we were able to tie up to their dock and plug in and recharge batteries. It took awhile to figure things out, but it seems he did. He did find that we have a bad cylinder, not enough fuel entering it. We suspected the injector, but after replacing it with my one spare, the result was still the same. He then suspected the fuel pump, a more difficult fix. However, he is convinced that this problem has been with me for a long time. He also found a bad glow plug no four cylinder. We tried to find replacement glow plugs here, but no luck. He then switched out the function glow plug from nonfunctioning (or low functioning) cylinder 3 and now the engine starts fine. I will look for new glow plugs in Raiatea next week, or have them brought done to via crew. Yesterday, the Nottages came to Bloody Mary's and we chatted for awhile. The big moment for me was this morning when I tried to start the engine cold. It started just fine, so we left our mooring and came up here. We had a nice farewell lunch with the Yim's at St. James and then they left for the airport. We enjoyed having them aboard and were sorry we couldn't quite show them the time we had promised. We know they made the best of it and had a good time. We have a week to ourselves and plan on heading to the backside of Bora for a few days. I am feeling much relieved! Aloha, until later, David
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Moored off of MaiKai Marina
Aloha Everyone, it has been a frustrating and difficult past few days, but it looks like things may be back to normal. I feel, in general, we were lucky. First bit of luck is that when we entered the lagoon, the marina we are now moored in had no moorings available, forcing us to Bloody Mary's. Not only a quieter anchorage, but we were able to get a hold of a top mechanic, the former engineer from the now defunct Hotel Bora Bora, and we were able to tie up to their dock and plug in and recharge batteries. It took awhile to figure things out, but it seems he did. He did find that we have a bad cylinder, not enough fuel entering it. We suspected the injector, but after replacing it with my one spare, the result was still the same. He then suspected the fuel pump, a more difficult fix. However, he is convinced that this problem has been with me for a long time. He also found a bad glow plug no four cylinder. We tried to find replacement glow plugs here, but no luck. He then switched out the function glow plug from nonfunctioning (or low functioning) cylinder 3 and now the engine starts fine. I will look for new glow plugs in Raiatea next week, or have them brought done to via crew. Yesterday, the Nottages came to Bloody Mary's and we chatted for awhile. The big moment for me was this morning when I tried to start the engine cold. It started just fine, so we left our mooring and came up here. We had a nice farewell lunch with the Yim's at St. James and then they left for the airport. We enjoyed having them aboard and were sorry we couldn't quite show them the time we had promised. We know they made the best of it and had a good time. We have a week to ourselves and plan on heading to the backside of Bora for a few days. I am feeling much relieved! Aloha, until later, David
----
This e-mail was delivered via satellite phone using GMN's XGate software.
Please be kind and keep your replies short.
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