Aloha everyone, sorry tis is a few days late, but...We had a continued nice sail across the channel and Maui. The wind picked up and clocked a bit, making it hard to sail straight for the club. As the wind increased to 25-30Kts, most we had seen on the entire trip, we decided to chicken jibe to get ourselves back down. Our second jibe, we caught the fish line on either prop or rudder, and I knew that I'd have to go for a dive in the bay before I could start the engine. We did see a pygmy whale surfing in the very large waves behind us. A few miles from Moku Manu, our reel went off and the line was screaming out. Randy needed me to slow boat at a time when I was trying to get in before dark. We fought the small sailfish for sometime, but had a hard time trying to board him around BBQ and solar panels, and he eventually got off. We pulled into KBay 30 hours after leaving Hilo, we dropped the sails just as I nice rain squall came in and just when Bo and Marcy met us with Karin and Ellis. I did the quick dive, and got the fish line off the prop, we started the engine, and Karin and Ellis came aboard to finish the last mile. I took a quick shower and then we were met with conch shells blowing and a very nice reception, including maitais in Pineapple cups. All sorts of food was on hand and it was great to see all our friends. Thanks especially go out to Karin, Ellis, Lori, and Bo and Marci. We left boat at the bulkhead under the care of Jeff and we headed home. I had the most sound sleep I've had in four months. Yesterday, got the boat back to the slip with help from Cathy and Ellis and started the process of clean up and removing all the "junk", which we don't need aboard when not cruising. In a few days, we fly to phoenix, to see our Son and grandkids. I do hope to write a few more blogs with a few conclusions and some pictures, but not sure when that will happen. I appreciate all of you who followed us and your nice comments re this blog. Aloha, David
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Sunday, September 27, 2015
Home at last
aloha everyone, this is a day or so late, but....We had a continued nice sail across the channel and above Maui, but as wind increased, it clocked a bit, so we had to sail slightly more North, and then jibe back down, ultimately doing that a few times. The wind got up to 25-30kt, the most for the entire trip, and the seas built. We did see another pigmy whale surfing in the waves behind us. due to wind strength, we decided to do chicken jibes, and during our last one, we picked up our fishing line on either prop or rudder, but I knew if it didn't clear itself, I would be making a dive on the bottom in the bay before could start the engine. A few miles off of
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Friday, September 25, 2015
Hilo Stopover
Sent from my iPhoneDave in the fuel barge coming in to get a sip. Thanks to Richard and Rita for welcome committee and emergency rations.
Last night watch
Sept. 25, 2015 0130
Off North East Corner of Maui
Aloha Everyone, find it hard to believe that this my lat night watch. A bittersweet time! We are blasting our way home, and do I mean blasting, the wind is over 20kt, most we 've seen this whole trip, and we are averaging 7.5+kt. We should be to KYC by late afternoon. Had a pleasant sleep last night in a quiet anchorage. Up at seven to get things organized. Inflated our kayak and paddled ashore with jerry can for fuel and met Richard and Rita. Got some fuel (Thanks for the coffee and donuts!), paddled back out, brought boat into small harbor and then headed to customs. Agent very friendly, process was easy, then off to breakfast/lunch. After some provisioning, we were off again. Dueto lack of wind we had to motor first five hours, but don't expect to hear engine again until the end at KYC. The wind is forecast to pick up even more, so we should have an exciting finish. Karin and Ellis have arranged a welcome home party that may involve some drinking maitais out of pineapples. It will be fabulous to see Karin, as well as my friends, and look forward to sliding into my own bed from the side (I have to crawl into my berth from the end) after four months! This has been a fabulous trip, with so many wonderful memories of places, people, food and friends, after two years of preparation, I hate to see it come to a close. However, I knew it would and that time is here. We met some cruisers who were into a two or three, or more, year cruise, and I have never been able to wrap my mind around that. I am somewhat spoiled by Tahiti, not sure I woud want to move on, plus, don't want to be away from my family for such an extended period of time. Anyway, it's almost over, BUT, I do expect to make some more blog entries, pictures and conclusions. So check in again and if you are around KYC late afternoon tomorrow, come down and say hello. It will be good to see you. Aloha, David
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Off North East Corner of Maui
Aloha Everyone, find it hard to believe that this my lat night watch. A bittersweet time! We are blasting our way home, and do I mean blasting, the wind is over 20kt, most we 've seen this whole trip, and we are averaging 7.5+kt. We should be to KYC by late afternoon. Had a pleasant sleep last night in a quiet anchorage. Up at seven to get things organized. Inflated our kayak and paddled ashore with jerry can for fuel and met Richard and Rita. Got some fuel (Thanks for the coffee and donuts!), paddled back out, brought boat into small harbor and then headed to customs. Agent very friendly, process was easy, then off to breakfast/lunch. After some provisioning, we were off again. Dueto lack of wind we had to motor first five hours, but don't expect to hear engine again until the end at KYC. The wind is forecast to pick up even more, so we should have an exciting finish. Karin and Ellis have arranged a welcome home party that may involve some drinking maitais out of pineapples. It will be fabulous to see Karin, as well as my friends, and look forward to sliding into my own bed from the side (I have to crawl into my berth from the end) after four months! This has been a fabulous trip, with so many wonderful memories of places, people, food and friends, after two years of preparation, I hate to see it come to a close. However, I knew it would and that time is here. We met some cruisers who were into a two or three, or more, year cruise, and I have never been able to wrap my mind around that. I am somewhat spoiled by Tahiti, not sure I woud want to move on, plus, don't want to be away from my family for such an extended period of time. Anyway, it's almost over, BUT, I do expect to make some more blog entries, pictures and conclusions. So check in again and if you are around KYC late afternoon tomorrow, come down and say hello. It will be good to see you. Aloha, David
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Thursday, September 24, 2015
The final leg
The Ho'o gang are standing their final watches for this journey and we here at home are preparing for their welcome. Arrival is tentatively about 5ish on Friday evening, please join, family and friends, to welcome them home. Will try and post an accurate time here when we get one.
Anxiously awaiting Cathy's return,
Ellis
Re: Finally at anchor in Hilo Bay
Congrats for making it to snug harbor. We know how nice a flat anchorage and no engine must feel after so many hard days. How lucky for you to have Randy aboard for moral and physical support. Imagine it without him. We hope the rest of your trip is uneventfully.
Cheers , Kaimiloa gang
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Finally at anchor in Hilo Bay
Sept 24, 2015 0045
Anchored in Hilo Bay
Aloha Everyone, it has been an interesting day. We were hoping our wind would maintain it's moderate strength, but not so lucky. The breeze was in the 10-12 kt range and I suggested the asym, but crew not to enthusiastic as we were still moving okay. Eventually, as things did not improve, I said it was time, and we got the asym up and started moving well, and the autopilot handled it fine (which turned out to be reason crew was hesitant). We carried it for the next 7+ hours, with wind from 7-12 kts. No way to arrive before dark, no pizza and beer for us. We eventually got asym down after dark, in 17kt, without getting it wet. We jibed in for Hilo, and wind started to lighten up as rain squalls came thru. A few miles off of harbor, we started engine for awhile, but knew we only had a gallon or so left. As soon as some wind showed up, we stopped motoring and sailed. As we entered the harbor, the wind was on the nose, so back to motoring. As we got inside, we could ease off and sail some and then engine died. We sailed another mile inside harbor, in a dying breeze, and dropped the hook as soon as we were inside the designated anchorage area, just before midnight. Tomorrow, we will get some more fuel, check in with customs, and provision, before heading back out again. We are enjoying a cocktail before we hit the sack. Richard and Rita will help us in the morning and then we will be on the final leg to KYC. All for now, aloha, David
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Anchored in Hilo Bay
Aloha Everyone, it has been an interesting day. We were hoping our wind would maintain it's moderate strength, but not so lucky. The breeze was in the 10-12 kt range and I suggested the asym, but crew not to enthusiastic as we were still moving okay. Eventually, as things did not improve, I said it was time, and we got the asym up and started moving well, and the autopilot handled it fine (which turned out to be reason crew was hesitant). We carried it for the next 7+ hours, with wind from 7-12 kts. No way to arrive before dark, no pizza and beer for us. We eventually got asym down after dark, in 17kt, without getting it wet. We jibed in for Hilo, and wind started to lighten up as rain squalls came thru. A few miles off of harbor, we started engine for awhile, but knew we only had a gallon or so left. As soon as some wind showed up, we stopped motoring and sailed. As we entered the harbor, the wind was on the nose, so back to motoring. As we got inside, we could ease off and sail some and then engine died. We sailed another mile inside harbor, in a dying breeze, and dropped the hook as soon as we were inside the designated anchorage area, just before midnight. Tomorrow, we will get some more fuel, check in with customs, and provision, before heading back out again. We are enjoying a cocktail before we hit the sack. Richard and Rita will help us in the morning and then we will be on the final leg to KYC. All for now, aloha, David
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Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Getting Close
Sept. 22, 2015 1715
17 49.0N
152 54.0W
7.6kt @ 311 degrees
178nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, thought I would write this while I am cooking some shepherds pie. Hopefully, it will taste good, We had a most pleasant day with clear skies and ghood breezes. If we would have had anything like this these paste two weeks, we would have arrived atKYC by now. Howwever, this is an adventure and adventures can 't be predictable, what's the adventure in that? Anyway, we are about 150nm from Hilo and have arranged with Richard/Rita to meet us. Looking forward to some pizza and beer! We are not hurting here though, we did have an evening rum, with our last ice cubes to celebrate our last (almost) night. Of course, we still have to get to KYC, so we will leave Thursday, midmornig. Nothing else to report, crew doing well and excited to be coming home. Aloha, David
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17 49.0N
152 54.0W
7.6kt @ 311 degrees
178nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, thought I would write this while I am cooking some shepherds pie. Hopefully, it will taste good, We had a most pleasant day with clear skies and ghood breezes. If we would have had anything like this these paste two weeks, we would have arrived atKYC by now. Howwever, this is an adventure and adventures can 't be predictable, what's the adventure in that? Anyway, we are about 150nm from Hilo and have arranged with Richard/Rita to meet us. Looking forward to some pizza and beer! We are not hurting here though, we did have an evening rum, with our last ice cubes to celebrate our last (almost) night. Of course, we still have to get to KYC, so we will leave Thursday, midmornig. Nothing else to report, crew doing well and excited to be coming home. Aloha, David
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Monday, September 21, 2015
All going well
Sept. 21, 2015 1800
15 17.6N
150 56.4W
6kt @ 325 degrees
157nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we are all doing well on Ho'onanea. We have been at sea for two weeks today. At this point, I can't help but to think of the pop song that says "be careful of what you wish for because you just might get it." Well, after a windy,rough and wet trip down to Tahiti, we enjoyed some very comfortable, but slow sailing conditions. We all agreed that we would be happy to take a few extra days if it remained comfortable, and that is exactly what happened. We were on port tack once we got on this side of the equator and did not get a descent breeze or trades, or starboard tack until yesterday. So, yes, we have had nice sailing, full main and jib, some hatches open most of the time. Yes, it still was sticky and hot, to be expected in the equatorial area.. However, downside is that because we had to motor so much in light winds ans because the wind gen wasn't producing enough juice, we used way more fuel than planned. We had almost 30 gallons left when we arrived in Tahiti. We have enough fuel left to get into Harbor, not enough to power thru the lee of the Big Island. Since we are now in the trades, we are enjoying good mileage and the wind generator is keeping us suppleid with enough electricity to run things. If all goes to plan, we will arrive in Hilo tomorrow, early evening. We hope to see our friends Richard and Rita, who live there. Hopefully, they will join us for some dinner and help with some transportation. I will call Rita tomorrow to give her a better time estimate. Thank you guys. All else good here. You all will here from me again tomorrow. Aloha for now, David
350nm to ilo
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15 17.6N
150 56.4W
6kt @ 325 degrees
157nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we are all doing well on Ho'onanea. We have been at sea for two weeks today. At this point, I can't help but to think of the pop song that says "be careful of what you wish for because you just might get it." Well, after a windy,rough and wet trip down to Tahiti, we enjoyed some very comfortable, but slow sailing conditions. We all agreed that we would be happy to take a few extra days if it remained comfortable, and that is exactly what happened. We were on port tack once we got on this side of the equator and did not get a descent breeze or trades, or starboard tack until yesterday. So, yes, we have had nice sailing, full main and jib, some hatches open most of the time. Yes, it still was sticky and hot, to be expected in the equatorial area.. However, downside is that because we had to motor so much in light winds ans because the wind gen wasn't producing enough juice, we used way more fuel than planned. We had almost 30 gallons left when we arrived in Tahiti. We have enough fuel left to get into Harbor, not enough to power thru the lee of the Big Island. Since we are now in the trades, we are enjoying good mileage and the wind generator is keeping us suppleid with enough electricity to run things. If all goes to plan, we will arrive in Hilo tomorrow, early evening. We hope to see our friends Richard and Rita, who live there. Hopefully, they will join us for some dinner and help with some transportation. I will call Rita tomorrow to give her a better time estimate. Thank you guys. All else good here. You all will here from me again tomorrow. Aloha for now, David
350nm to ilo
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Sunday, September 20, 2015
New Plan
Sept. 20, 2015 1600
12 37.6N
149. 49.9W
7.4kt @ 325 degrees
110nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, wanted to bring you up to date with things on the good ship Ho'onanea. As you are aware, we lost charging power last night, so we each did our night tricks hand steering. We ran out of wind again this morning, and 30 minutes after we started the motor, it strted to charge again. That is the good news, the bad news is we are just now seeing some breeze, in the form of a squall, so don't kn ow how long it will last. We only have enough fuel to get us into a harbor, not even enough left to charge things up anymore. We have turned off the refer and are running minmal equipment. With some breeze, and sun during day, we will be fine. We are heading for Hilo and will check in there as well as take on some more fuel. Unless we get in during the evening, we'll only stay a few hours and then continue on home. Crew is all doing well, Gribs tell me we should have some rades the rest of the way. I am writing this early as I may be at the helm during the time I normally write this. We we left Bora Bora and things mellowed out after the initial 20 kt., we all agreed that we wouldn't mind taking a few extra days to get home if it was nice and mellow. However, no wind, lots of motoring, leads to a fuel issue. We arrived in Papeete with over a half tank of fuel, not this time! The adventure continues. Again. as long as we have some breeze and sun during the day, the blog will be able to continue. Later,David
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12 37.6N
149. 49.9W
7.4kt @ 325 degrees
110nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, wanted to bring you up to date with things on the good ship Ho'onanea. As you are aware, we lost charging power last night, so we each did our night tricks hand steering. We ran out of wind again this morning, and 30 minutes after we started the motor, it strted to charge again. That is the good news, the bad news is we are just now seeing some breeze, in the form of a squall, so don't kn ow how long it will last. We only have enough fuel to get us into a harbor, not even enough left to charge things up anymore. We have turned off the refer and are running minmal equipment. With some breeze, and sun during day, we will be fine. We are heading for Hilo and will check in there as well as take on some more fuel. Unless we get in during the evening, we'll only stay a few hours and then continue on home. Crew is all doing well, Gribs tell me we should have some rades the rest of the way. I am writing this early as I may be at the helm during the time I normally write this. We we left Bora Bora and things mellowed out after the initial 20 kt., we all agreed that we wouldn't mind taking a few extra days to get home if it was nice and mellow. However, no wind, lots of motoring, leads to a fuel issue. We arrived in Papeete with over a half tank of fuel, not this time! The adventure continues. Again. as long as we have some breeze and sun during the day, the blog will be able to continue. Later,David
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Alternator problem
Sept 20,2001 0120
11 43.7N
149 094W
4kt @ 280
133nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, lots going on at the moment, so I will briefly fill you in. The squally weather passed last night, but I then discovered that the alternator was not charging. I got a few hours rest after my watch, then Randy and I replaced the alternator, which is a challenge at sea and requires an overfilled lazerette be emptied. The new alternator kicked in and we recharged and all seemed well and it was a most pleasant, easy sailing day. However, this evening, about 11pm, the wind went light so we started engine and no charging. We opened everything up, removed mattress from my berth to get to batteries and cannot figure it out. We will ultimately loose battery power, hopefully we will still be able to run engine. The big problem is loss of autopilot and refer. We should have enough power for those during the day with solar and wind, but not at night. We have about 750nm to go. We are all fine, should get in sometime thursday, but I may not send out a blog. I must get to the wheel now, Aloha, David
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11 43.7N
149 094W
4kt @ 280
133nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, lots going on at the moment, so I will briefly fill you in. The squally weather passed last night, but I then discovered that the alternator was not charging. I got a few hours rest after my watch, then Randy and I replaced the alternator, which is a challenge at sea and requires an overfilled lazerette be emptied. The new alternator kicked in and we recharged and all seemed well and it was a most pleasant, easy sailing day. However, this evening, about 11pm, the wind went light so we started engine and no charging. We opened everything up, removed mattress from my berth to get to batteries and cannot figure it out. We will ultimately loose battery power, hopefully we will still be able to run engine. The big problem is loss of autopilot and refer. We should have enough power for those during the day with solar and wind, but not at night. We have about 750nm to go. We are all fine, should get in sometime thursday, but I may not send out a blog. I must get to the wheel now, Aloha, David
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Saturday, September 19, 2015
Was a dark and stormy night!
Sept. 19, 2015 0200
9 54.2N
148 31.9W
4.7kt @ 14 degrees
150nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, this will be a bit short as we have run into some squally weather with rain and lots of breeze. The surface map shows a low in front of us so we are trying to go right to get behind it and, hopefully, get into the trades. Although this afternoon we were looking forward to our first rain squall, to rinse both the boat and us, enough already!. Although we may have another day of this, I expect to see the trades (we have been on Port tack, BTW) by sometime Sunday, then we can start heading home. Otherwise, crew hanging in there quite well. Stay tunes, aloha, David
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9 54.2N
148 31.9W
4.7kt @ 14 degrees
150nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, this will be a bit short as we have run into some squally weather with rain and lots of breeze. The surface map shows a low in front of us so we are trying to go right to get behind it and, hopefully, get into the trades. Although this afternoon we were looking forward to our first rain squall, to rinse both the boat and us, enough already!. Although we may have another day of this, I expect to see the trades (we have been on Port tack, BTW) by sometime Sunday, then we can start heading home. Otherwise, crew hanging in there quite well. Stay tunes, aloha, David
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Friday, September 18, 2015
Still motoring
Sept. 18, 2015 0130
7 33.1N
148 10.9W
6.0kt @350 degrees
114nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, another pleasant but slow day out here on the vast Pacific Ocean. We have been motoring about 40 hrs now and it looks like it will continue that way for awhile, unless new gribs tell me otherwise. We do have a slight SSW breeze, so we have unrolled the headsail and making some use of it. Today is first day when we notice some plastic debris floating by, otherwise, we have seen little. We enjoyed a nice sunset while thinking about what was happening at the club during happy hour. It seems to be getting dark early, so we know the races will be soon over. We did enjoy some steak on the barbie and are looking forward to cooler weather. Here is hoping to some breeze, Aloha, David
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7 33.1N
148 10.9W
6.0kt @350 degrees
114nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, another pleasant but slow day out here on the vast Pacific Ocean. We have been motoring about 40 hrs now and it looks like it will continue that way for awhile, unless new gribs tell me otherwise. We do have a slight SSW breeze, so we have unrolled the headsail and making some use of it. Today is first day when we notice some plastic debris floating by, otherwise, we have seen little. We enjoyed a nice sunset while thinking about what was happening at the club during happy hour. It seems to be getting dark early, so we know the races will be soon over. We did enjoy some steak on the barbie and are looking forward to cooler weather. Here is hoping to some breeze, Aloha, David
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Thursday, September 17, 2015
Big hole
Sept. 17, 2015 0100
5 40.1 N
148 17.3 W
4.5kt @ 0 degrees
139nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all well here on the good ship Ho'onanea. We are in a large area of light wind(4-5kt from the South, which means almost no apparent wind) so we are under power. When we exit this area, we will be in the ITCZ, wich means under power. My berth is next engine, which means hot, noisy and no sleep! Will be a long few days. Once we get thru it, we should be able to romp on home. Not a lot else to report. Randy and I did play some cribbage today. Although he has played before, it was always with four. He hung in there well. Not much else to report, we are all looking forward to getting home to our loved ones and friends. Aloha, David
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5 40.1 N
148 17.3 W
4.5kt @ 0 degrees
139nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all well here on the good ship Ho'onanea. We are in a large area of light wind(4-5kt from the South, which means almost no apparent wind) so we are under power. When we exit this area, we will be in the ITCZ, wich means under power. My berth is next engine, which means hot, noisy and no sleep! Will be a long few days. Once we get thru it, we should be able to romp on home. Not a lot else to report. Randy and I did play some cribbage today. Although he has played before, it was always with four. He hung in there well. Not much else to report, we are all looking forward to getting home to our loved ones and friends. Aloha, David
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Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Another great day
Sept 16, 2015 0145
3 40.6 N
149 05.2W
5.7kt @ 34 degrees
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, hope you all are having as nice of days as we are. We have had clear skys, mod wind and seas and continue to make good progress home. We did see what was probably a pygmy whale for a few seconds, pretty much the days highlight. It looks like we are going to start to see some light air prior to the ITCZ, so we may end up motoring for a few days. Once into NE trades, we can turn left and romp on home. All here are doing well and eating well. Hopefully, we should be checking into KYC in a little over a week. Aloha, David
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3 40.6 N
149 05.2W
5.7kt @ 34 degrees
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, hope you all are having as nice of days as we are. We have had clear skys, mod wind and seas and continue to make good progress home. We did see what was probably a pygmy whale for a few seconds, pretty much the days highlight. It looks like we are going to start to see some light air prior to the ITCZ, so we may end up motoring for a few days. Once into NE trades, we can turn left and romp on home. All here are doing well and eating well. Hopefully, we should be checking into KYC in a little over a week. Aloha, David
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Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Crossed the equator
Sept 15, 2015 0130
01 05.6 N
149 53.8 W
7.0 kt @ 2 degrees
158nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we had a big day today, including a visitor. It was very pleasant all day. About 3pm, we crossed the equator and we were visited by King Neptunis rectumis Rex, the handsome devil! He had noted that a pollywog was amongst us and she needed to be properly inducted in order to enter his realm. We had a good time, including some head shaving and egg, and then an elixer blood and eyeballs of thine slain sea creatures (red juice, lychee and rum.) She is now a proper shellback with all the rights of such an esteemed club. We had pleasant celebration of the crossing, which included hamburgers, ice cream and a movie. The wind has picked up a bit, so we are moving fast but a bit rolly. Not much else to report aboard the good ship Ho'onanea, crew all doing well and looking forward to getting home to there loved ones. Aloha, David
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01 05.6 N
149 53.8 W
7.0 kt @ 2 degrees
158nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, we had a big day today, including a visitor. It was very pleasant all day. About 3pm, we crossed the equator and we were visited by King Neptunis rectumis Rex, the handsome devil! He had noted that a pollywog was amongst us and she needed to be properly inducted in order to enter his realm. We had a good time, including some head shaving and egg, and then an elixer blood and eyeballs of thine slain sea creatures (red juice, lychee and rum.) She is now a proper shellback with all the rights of such an esteemed club. We had pleasant celebration of the crossing, which included hamburgers, ice cream and a movie. The wind has picked up a bit, so we are moving fast but a bit rolly. Not much else to report aboard the good ship Ho'onanea, crew all doing well and looking forward to getting home to there loved ones. Aloha, David
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Monday, September 14, 2015
Expecting a visitor tomorrow
Sept. 14, 2015 0145
1 26.6 S
150 21.7 W
6.6 kt @ 357 degrees
170nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, another fine day aboard the good ship Ho'onanea, albeit a little warm. We are rapidly approaching the equator, and my sources say we will have royal visitor who, apparently, is none to happy about a certain polywog swab we have aboard and she shall remain nameless. I expect the visit to occur mid afternoon. Other than that, nothing to exciting to report. I made an artichoke salad for lunch and our polywog, who doesn't like artichokes, choked it down. For dinner, we had some blackened ahi, followed by pasta with cheddar cheese and ham. Boat has been performing flawlessly. A little boring not having anything to fix. Twice, just before we left, for unknown reasons, the head door would lock after Cathy would close it. It was not a huge deal, as I could reach in thru the open portlight with something long and unlock it. It dawned on me shortly after we left, in 20 kt winds, that if that happened again, we'd be a bit screwed as the the portlight would be closed! The only solution was to remove the locking mechanism. That has pretty much been the extent of my boat projects. Not that I won't have plenty to do when I return. The nights have been very pleasant, but I have been missing the moon. I expect we should see it setting within next few days. That is about it for the evening. Look forward to seeing you all, David
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1 26.6 S
150 21.7 W
6.6 kt @ 357 degrees
170nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, another fine day aboard the good ship Ho'onanea, albeit a little warm. We are rapidly approaching the equator, and my sources say we will have royal visitor who, apparently, is none to happy about a certain polywog swab we have aboard and she shall remain nameless. I expect the visit to occur mid afternoon. Other than that, nothing to exciting to report. I made an artichoke salad for lunch and our polywog, who doesn't like artichokes, choked it down. For dinner, we had some blackened ahi, followed by pasta with cheddar cheese and ham. Boat has been performing flawlessly. A little boring not having anything to fix. Twice, just before we left, for unknown reasons, the head door would lock after Cathy would close it. It was not a huge deal, as I could reach in thru the open portlight with something long and unlock it. It dawned on me shortly after we left, in 20 kt winds, that if that happened again, we'd be a bit screwed as the the portlight would be closed! The only solution was to remove the locking mechanism. That has pretty much been the extent of my boat projects. Not that I won't have plenty to do when I return. The nights have been very pleasant, but I have been missing the moon. I expect we should see it setting within next few days. That is about it for the evening. Look forward to seeing you all, David
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Sunday, September 13, 2015
Life remains grand
Sept. 13, 2015 0130
4 7.8 S
150 30.2 W
7 kt @ 350 degrees
162 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all is well here aboard the good ship Ho'onanea. We continue to make good, trouble free progress home. Crew is doing well, sleeping enough and eating well. We have a bit of a moratorium on fishing because we have been catching too many. Putting a line in pretty much guarantees a catch and our freezer is full! Crew cooked some chocalot cookies tonight On the way way North from Bora there are lots of small islands, atols, reefs and breakers on the chart that you must avoid. We have finally past the last of those so Hawaii is our next big obstacle. Our days have been passing easily with good conversation, some games, reading and a few naps. Luckily, minimal boat projects, Ho'o holdingup well. I figure we should arrive at KYC around the 24th, but that is just an estimate depending on continued nice breezes. narrow ITCZ and small lee behind big island. See you all soon, Aloha, David
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4 7.8 S
150 30.2 W
7 kt @ 350 degrees
162 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, all is well here aboard the good ship Ho'onanea. We continue to make good, trouble free progress home. Crew is doing well, sleeping enough and eating well. We have a bit of a moratorium on fishing because we have been catching too many. Putting a line in pretty much guarantees a catch and our freezer is full! Crew cooked some chocalot cookies tonight On the way way North from Bora there are lots of small islands, atols, reefs and breakers on the chart that you must avoid. We have finally past the last of those so Hawaii is our next big obstacle. Our days have been passing easily with good conversation, some games, reading and a few naps. Luckily, minimal boat projects, Ho'o holdingup well. I figure we should arrive at KYC around the 24th, but that is just an estimate depending on continued nice breezes. narrow ITCZ and small lee behind big island. See you all soon, Aloha, David
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Saturday, September 12, 2015
Continued pleasant sailing
Sept. 12, 2015 0130
6 54.5 S
150 16.6W
5.8 kt @ 355degrees
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, we bring you good tidings from the S Pacific Ocean. We are all doing well and enjoying the perfect sailing conditions. Minimal water on deck with clear skys and fast sailing. It was a busy day for me as I downloaded new gribs and baked some bread. The bread didn't want to rise so feels more like a brick, but we will find that out tomorrow. I stayed inside for the most part with my nav work, reading and breadmaking to stay out of warm sun. Late in the afternoon, I went up to anchor locker and took nice shower with anchor washdown pump. Water is warm and a great view. We played some Captain's Mistress(a four in a row game supposedly played by Captain Cook) and then Cooked some burgers on the barbie. Life is good, We should be crossing the equator sometime Monday. Cathy is looking forward to that as she knows we may have a visitor. Not much else to repot from the good ship Ho'onanea. Aloha, David
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6 54.5 S
150 16.6W
5.8 kt @ 355degrees
158 nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, we bring you good tidings from the S Pacific Ocean. We are all doing well and enjoying the perfect sailing conditions. Minimal water on deck with clear skys and fast sailing. It was a busy day for me as I downloaded new gribs and baked some bread. The bread didn't want to rise so feels more like a brick, but we will find that out tomorrow. I stayed inside for the most part with my nav work, reading and breadmaking to stay out of warm sun. Late in the afternoon, I went up to anchor locker and took nice shower with anchor washdown pump. Water is warm and a great view. We played some Captain's Mistress(a four in a row game supposedly played by Captain Cook) and then Cooked some burgers on the barbie. Life is good, We should be crossing the equator sometime Monday. Cathy is looking forward to that as she knows we may have a visitor. Not much else to repot from the good ship Ho'onanea. Aloha, David
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Friday, September 11, 2015
Great day with big finish
Sept. 11, 2015 0200
9 23.8 S
150 29.5 W
7 kt @ 355 degrees
134 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, as you can see from our mileage, we are sailing again. The wind came in about 9:30 last night and hasn't left us, for the most part, we've been sailing along under clear skies and flat seas at 6-7kt. We couldn't ask for more, but we got it anyway. The day had been delightful, even though it was clear, becasue we had wind, it was cooler out. We all were enjoying a beautiful day at sea, with no water on deck. We had been dragging two fish lines, with no results. We were just getting ready to pull them in, but thought we would watch the green flash first. All of a sudden, one line when tight, and then the other. Randy and I were pulling them both in in an excited frenzy, when his fish got off. He dumped his and helped me. After we boarded a nice 20# ahi, we noticed his line tight again. We quickly brought it in hoping to release it, but it apparently had been dragged for awhile, so didn't make it. Now we have two 20 #s. Randy is the champ, he cleaned them, and then cooked up some nice ahi steaks. Life is good. We are so happy to be moving along nicely. This is similar to my previous return in '91, very pleasant sailing. We hope it keeps up. Randy has so far spotted one ship and a whale. We also saw two probable fish buoys along with the occasional bird. Otherwise, not much else to see except shapes in the passing clouds. A little early yet to estimate when we will arrive, but we should be there within two weeks from now. Aloha, David
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9 23.8 S
150 29.5 W
7 kt @ 355 degrees
134 nm noon to noon
Aloha everyone, as you can see from our mileage, we are sailing again. The wind came in about 9:30 last night and hasn't left us, for the most part, we've been sailing along under clear skies and flat seas at 6-7kt. We couldn't ask for more, but we got it anyway. The day had been delightful, even though it was clear, becasue we had wind, it was cooler out. We all were enjoying a beautiful day at sea, with no water on deck. We had been dragging two fish lines, with no results. We were just getting ready to pull them in, but thought we would watch the green flash first. All of a sudden, one line when tight, and then the other. Randy and I were pulling them both in in an excited frenzy, when his fish got off. He dumped his and helped me. After we boarded a nice 20# ahi, we noticed his line tight again. We quickly brought it in hoping to release it, but it apparently had been dragged for awhile, so didn't make it. Now we have two 20 #s. Randy is the champ, he cleaned them, and then cooked up some nice ahi steaks. Life is good. We are so happy to be moving along nicely. This is similar to my previous return in '91, very pleasant sailing. We hope it keeps up. Randy has so far spotted one ship and a whale. We also saw two probable fish buoys along with the occasional bird. Otherwise, not much else to see except shapes in the passing clouds. A little early yet to estimate when we will arrive, but we should be there within two weeks from now. Aloha, David
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Thursday, September 10, 2015
Finally some wind
Sept 10, 2015 0130
11 58.4 S
151 06.5 W
6.8 kt @ 21 degrees
Aloha everyone, hope this finds you all doing well. We finally got into some consistant breeze a few hours ago and have been making good progress, The weather gribs confirm some moderate winds for the next few days. It is quite pleasant now, making 6.8+kt with no water on deck. Our mileage was quite low yesterday, but that does not reflect all the tacking we did. I'm sure our miles will start to increase. last nights watch was one of my worse ever. It had been okay, but as soon as I put my foot on the companionway steps, the jib backed and it went downhill from there. there numerous rain squalls, wind up down, right left, jib sheets got tangled on foredeck twice, requiring trips up there both times. Can't complain about tonight though, very pleasant so far. Crew doing well, Cathy feeling better, they made brownies tonight. Hopefully, the latitude numbers will just keep falling away and we'll be home soon. Aloha, David
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11 58.4 S
151 06.5 W
6.8 kt @ 21 degrees
Aloha everyone, hope this finds you all doing well. We finally got into some consistant breeze a few hours ago and have been making good progress, The weather gribs confirm some moderate winds for the next few days. It is quite pleasant now, making 6.8+kt with no water on deck. Our mileage was quite low yesterday, but that does not reflect all the tacking we did. I'm sure our miles will start to increase. last nights watch was one of my worse ever. It had been okay, but as soon as I put my foot on the companionway steps, the jib backed and it went downhill from there. there numerous rain squalls, wind up down, right left, jib sheets got tangled on foredeck twice, requiring trips up there both times. Can't complain about tonight though, very pleasant so far. Crew doing well, Cathy feeling better, they made brownies tonight. Hopefully, the latitude numbers will just keep falling away and we'll be home soon. Aloha, David
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Wednesday, September 9, 2015
slow progress
Sept. 9, 2015 0215
13 34.9 S
151 48.5W
4.5 kt @ 6 degrees
120nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as we are experiencing squally weather which keeps me busy on deck. We have had to motor most of the day and our wind has been mostly out of the North! So much for a fast passage home. We had some nice sailing this evening, but the moment I went on watch it turned rainy, squally with the wind all over, but still out of the North. Our highlights were a nice shower on the bow using the anchor wash down pump (we are being very conservative of our water as port tan leaks and watermaker not functional). The water felt warm and then we rinse with some fresh water we have stored on deck. The other highlight was seeing a double green flash. A swell rose the boat up just after first flash so we could see it again. Crew doing well, Cathy feeling better. All for now. David
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13 34.9 S
151 48.5W
4.5 kt @ 6 degrees
120nm noon to noon
Aloha Everyone, this will be short as we are experiencing squally weather which keeps me busy on deck. We have had to motor most of the day and our wind has been mostly out of the North! So much for a fast passage home. We had some nice sailing this evening, but the moment I went on watch it turned rainy, squally with the wind all over, but still out of the North. Our highlights were a nice shower on the bow using the anchor wash down pump (we are being very conservative of our water as port tan leaks and watermaker not functional). The water felt warm and then we rinse with some fresh water we have stored on deck. The other highlight was seeing a double green flash. A swell rose the boat up just after first flash so we could see it again. Crew doing well, Cathy feeling better. All for now. David
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Tuesday, September 8, 2015
The last week
Cathy and I (Ellis) were the last gang to be hosted by David on Ho'onanea before her return trip home. We had a great time checking out the French Polynesian islands for the first time. We arrived in Raiatea where we were greeted by David and Randy. After a quick tour of the island it was a short sail to Tahaa where we stayed for a couple nights. Upon leaving Tahaa we had a DDW sail to Bora Bora arriving in time for dinner. There was good food at all the usual places that you've been hearing about here on the blog. Weather was very nice although it was windy at times. Cathy was able to get over some hurdles like snorkeling for the first time in her life and also being in close proximity to "The Man in the Grey Suit", lucky for her she was in the water so we couldn't see her sweaty palms. As always the fun had to end sometime and I said my farewells to David, Cathy and Randy as they got ready to take Ho'onanea home. I will miss Cathy but not to worry the honey-do list is long and distinguished, I imagine Jeff will be missing his spot on G pier when she gets home. With a seasoned captain and a stout boat it will be a great adventure for her.
So here's to fair winds and following seas for Ho'o and her crew and I will be waiting at the dock on your arrival.
Ellis
First night
Sept 8, 2015 0047
15 18.1S 151 .2W
COG 9, SOG 6.3kt
Aloha everyone, our first night back at sea. We cleared the pass at BoraBora at 10:30 this morning in about 20 knt. It remained a bit squally for first few hours and then slowly backed off until we were motoring. We did that for 4-5 hours and have had pleasant sailing since. I could handle this! Crew doing fine, but Cathy still needs some time to adjust to the motion. Not much else to report, hope the hurricanes give us a break. Until tomorrow, David
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15 18.1S 151 .2W
COG 9, SOG 6.3kt
Aloha everyone, our first night back at sea. We cleared the pass at BoraBora at 10:30 this morning in about 20 knt. It remained a bit squally for first few hours and then slowly backed off until we were motoring. We did that for 4-5 hours and have had pleasant sailing since. I could handle this! Crew doing fine, but Cathy still needs some time to adjust to the motion. Not much else to report, hope the hurricanes give us a break. Until tomorrow, David
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Monday, September 7, 2015
Yikes, where did the bloggist go!
Aug 7, 2015, 0024
moored off of Maikai Marina
Aloha everyone, I guess about now you have wondered what happened to me. I decided to fill you in on our plans and went back to see where I left off and couldn't find it as it was so long ago! Sorry about that, that will all change now.
So we got to Bora last Wed., fishless, but otherwise, a fine passage. We spotted the last mooring off of the marina and hightailed it there, just before a charter cat got there. We headed in and relaxed around the infinity pool with cocktails and wifi, then back to boat to clean up and then back in for a great dinner. Not only was the food excellent, but the music was very enjoyable also. Next morning we went into Vaitape, and rented a car for a round the island tour, stopping at Matira Beach for lunch. We then took boat up to Bloody Mary's, making a slight detour around the Mirabella V, largest single masted sailboat. It had a small plan on the afterdeck! We went on in for dinner and met my friend, David Stahlings, who had worked on engine, to pick up our watermaker. He had looked at it, but could not get it going. He and Randy hit it off and he took Randy to the old Hotel Bora Bora, where he showed him his generators and desalinators. We had another delightful meal and pleasant night. Next morning we took a tour around Toopua Island and then to the East side of Bora. I thought we might do this on Saturday night and spend the night, but then Ellis would have missed it. We anchored in 10' of turquoise water and went into the Lagoonarium, where you can swim with sharks, rays and reef fish. It was a perfect day and we all enjoyed it, except that it was a bit out of Cathy's comfort zone, so she hung back a bit. We then came back to MaiKai Marian, as we had heard of a big party that night, from friends the night before. The Mirabella was actually med moored there, what a sight!. We ate on Ho'o that night and then went to the party. Richard Postman was there, Greg Gillettes friend, along with Gregg. We had fun exchanging stories, music a bit to techno, but we all had a good time. Saturday morning, we motored to Vaitape and tied at the pier. We had some lunch and then sent Ellis off to return to Hawaii. I went to the Gendarme and checked out and then we went to fuel dock and filled her up. It was then on to Bora Bora YC, where we picked up a mooring and Met Gregg and Beth for dinner. It was also excellent. We then loaded our water tanks and came back to the Marina, moored and then took dinghy to town for our final shopping trip. After loading that aboard, we gathered all of garbage and recyclables and went into the Marina to deposit them(not all of this cruising stuff is easy!) and did final wifi. Two more mega yachts were now Med Tied at the marina, replacing Mirabella. Our plan was to eat aboard and go to sleep early and then get up at midnight and head to Maupiti. The weather seemed perfect, the conditions looked like they would be good for entering what can be a very difficult pass. While resting, it became a bit windy and squally. When I got up, just before midnight, I stared at my weather info and could see that it was going to blowing about 20 kts from the east tomorrow and then going a bit lighter almost northerly the next day, when we would leave Maupiti. So we had a crew discussion as it would have been a windy dead downwind trip tonight, and then maybe some wind on the nose when we were ready to leave. Not only that, but much easier for us to put anchor/chain away while on a mooring. So NEW PLAN, crew back to sleep, I finish this long overdue blog and then to sleep. Tomorrow morning, we will put dinghy and engine away, anchor/chain away, and leave for home by noon, if not before. I will be regular again. Aloha, David
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moored off of Maikai Marina
Aloha everyone, I guess about now you have wondered what happened to me. I decided to fill you in on our plans and went back to see where I left off and couldn't find it as it was so long ago! Sorry about that, that will all change now.
So we got to Bora last Wed., fishless, but otherwise, a fine passage. We spotted the last mooring off of the marina and hightailed it there, just before a charter cat got there. We headed in and relaxed around the infinity pool with cocktails and wifi, then back to boat to clean up and then back in for a great dinner. Not only was the food excellent, but the music was very enjoyable also. Next morning we went into Vaitape, and rented a car for a round the island tour, stopping at Matira Beach for lunch. We then took boat up to Bloody Mary's, making a slight detour around the Mirabella V, largest single masted sailboat. It had a small plan on the afterdeck! We went on in for dinner and met my friend, David Stahlings, who had worked on engine, to pick up our watermaker. He had looked at it, but could not get it going. He and Randy hit it off and he took Randy to the old Hotel Bora Bora, where he showed him his generators and desalinators. We had another delightful meal and pleasant night. Next morning we took a tour around Toopua Island and then to the East side of Bora. I thought we might do this on Saturday night and spend the night, but then Ellis would have missed it. We anchored in 10' of turquoise water and went into the Lagoonarium, where you can swim with sharks, rays and reef fish. It was a perfect day and we all enjoyed it, except that it was a bit out of Cathy's comfort zone, so she hung back a bit. We then came back to MaiKai Marian, as we had heard of a big party that night, from friends the night before. The Mirabella was actually med moored there, what a sight!. We ate on Ho'o that night and then went to the party. Richard Postman was there, Greg Gillettes friend, along with Gregg. We had fun exchanging stories, music a bit to techno, but we all had a good time. Saturday morning, we motored to Vaitape and tied at the pier. We had some lunch and then sent Ellis off to return to Hawaii. I went to the Gendarme and checked out and then we went to fuel dock and filled her up. It was then on to Bora Bora YC, where we picked up a mooring and Met Gregg and Beth for dinner. It was also excellent. We then loaded our water tanks and came back to the Marina, moored and then took dinghy to town for our final shopping trip. After loading that aboard, we gathered all of garbage and recyclables and went into the Marina to deposit them(not all of this cruising stuff is easy!) and did final wifi. Two more mega yachts were now Med Tied at the marina, replacing Mirabella. Our plan was to eat aboard and go to sleep early and then get up at midnight and head to Maupiti. The weather seemed perfect, the conditions looked like they would be good for entering what can be a very difficult pass. While resting, it became a bit windy and squally. When I got up, just before midnight, I stared at my weather info and could see that it was going to blowing about 20 kts from the east tomorrow and then going a bit lighter almost northerly the next day, when we would leave Maupiti. So we had a crew discussion as it would have been a windy dead downwind trip tonight, and then maybe some wind on the nose when we were ready to leave. Not only that, but much easier for us to put anchor/chain away while on a mooring. So NEW PLAN, crew back to sleep, I finish this long overdue blog and then to sleep. Tomorrow morning, we will put dinghy and engine away, anchor/chain away, and leave for home by noon, if not before. I will be regular again. Aloha, David
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Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Back to Bora for last time
Sept 2, 2015, 0930
5 nm 0ff of Tahaa
Aloha everyone, hope all is well and that Hawaii continues to avoid the hurricanes. We are doing well here as we start to wind down our trip. Tuesday, we took our dinghy across the bay to Tama's house, he showed us around, we looked at some pearls and then he gave us another tour, showing my guests both the pearl farm and vanilla plantation. Both processes are labor intensive requires a number of years plus about three years of no product. We then stopped by Mac China for last time and picked up some lunch and headed back to his home. He gave us a bunch of bananas and pomplemouse and we headed back to boat. We sailed up to North side of island and picked up a mooring and BBQ some steak and then played some Oh Hell. Yesterday, we headed to the coral gardens for our drift snorkel. This was going to be particularly interesting because Cathy was not comfortable with a mask and snorkel. After some initial hesitancy, she overcame her fears and really enjoyed it and we did it a second time. We raised anchor and headed across the bay to one of our favorite anchorages, Tapawamu. Even though the moorings were clear when we drove by the day before, no such luck then, so we had to deep anchor again. We had a lazy afternoon, including reading and naps and then headed in to get some pizza. Unluckily, we found them to be closed, so headed back to boat and the boys made some pasta. We were up early this morning prepping for trip to Bora. Hard to say goodbye to Tahaa, Karin and I grew to cherish this place, it's beauty, peace and tranquility. We started off with 20+ knt 0f wind and were looking forward to a quick trip. NOT! We get a fe miles out and the wind dies so we are back to power. Maybe we'll catch a fish to make up for it? All for now, hard to believe we'll be heading back in a week. Aloha, David
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5 nm 0ff of Tahaa
Aloha everyone, hope all is well and that Hawaii continues to avoid the hurricanes. We are doing well here as we start to wind down our trip. Tuesday, we took our dinghy across the bay to Tama's house, he showed us around, we looked at some pearls and then he gave us another tour, showing my guests both the pearl farm and vanilla plantation. Both processes are labor intensive requires a number of years plus about three years of no product. We then stopped by Mac China for last time and picked up some lunch and headed back to his home. He gave us a bunch of bananas and pomplemouse and we headed back to boat. We sailed up to North side of island and picked up a mooring and BBQ some steak and then played some Oh Hell. Yesterday, we headed to the coral gardens for our drift snorkel. This was going to be particularly interesting because Cathy was not comfortable with a mask and snorkel. After some initial hesitancy, she overcame her fears and really enjoyed it and we did it a second time. We raised anchor and headed across the bay to one of our favorite anchorages, Tapawamu. Even though the moorings were clear when we drove by the day before, no such luck then, so we had to deep anchor again. We had a lazy afternoon, including reading and naps and then headed in to get some pizza. Unluckily, we found them to be closed, so headed back to boat and the boys made some pasta. We were up early this morning prepping for trip to Bora. Hard to say goodbye to Tahaa, Karin and I grew to cherish this place, it's beauty, peace and tranquility. We started off with 20+ knt 0f wind and were looking forward to a quick trip. NOT! We get a fe miles out and the wind dies so we are back to power. Maybe we'll catch a fish to make up for it? All for now, hard to believe we'll be heading back in a week. Aloha, David
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