Safe arrival in Niue

Dear all,

 

We had a great time in Niue but had to leave due to adverse weather. The anchorage is open to the west and we had the choice of staying and hoping that the weather would not have a westerly component in it or run. We opted to run. If we had stayed and were then forced to leave the wind direction was likely to be unfavourable for the voyage to Tonga.

 

We are now in Neiafu the main port of the Vava'u group in the Kingdom of Tonga. The weather was "fruity" to say the least! Some of the worst seas we have ever experienced. 59 knots of breeze apparent on the wind instrument! Large 7-8m breaking waves. The cockpit was filled regularly by big greenies and the storm staysail was used in anger for the first time ever!

 

Jeff on Sea Falke was in transit with us but Seazen opted to stay, probably the best option for a 43ft Catamaran. They are on there way now so hoping to meet them in a day or so.

Niue was amazingly friendly, the "yacht club" make a very special effort for visiting yachtsmen. We were met on the wharf by the Commodore of the yacht club Keith who showed us how to use the crane to remove the dinghy from the water. The swell is such that you cannot just tie the dinghy alongside.

 

Our stay included a tour around the island visiting the chasms and arches, sea snakes - four times more poisonous than a cobra but they are not able to open their mouths wide enough to bite a human – We didn't take any chances!! Meeting up with some of the World ARC boats and enjoying a great BBQ put on by the yacht club.

 

It was a shame to leave because of the weather, but grateful that the weather remained stable enough to stay for a few days.

 

Love to all,

Ocean Lady