2007-07-06

This morning, after studying and laying out another alternative until midnight last night, we opted to go outside the Great Ocean Reef at Sau Sau Pass, and head for Nandamu Pass. A light southeast breeze was forecast, so we knew it would mean motorsailing into it if we were to make it, but decided this was as good a chance as we'd get if we wanted to avoid the complex, nerve wracking passage along inside the reef. If we were running too slow, and out of time, we could stop two thirds of the way there at Tilangitha Pass. There was an uncomfortable swell running when we cleared the reef, but the wind was of a strength and direction that was better than no wind, and we made pretty good time, at the expense of 6 gallons of fuel and a day listening to the motor at half throttle. Jim met us at the entrance to Nandamu with Don another sailor who had come in yesterday. Don came aboard and piloted us thru the reef pass, which has not a marker anywhere on it, and thru Mbekana Harbor to the anchorage at Also Island. Hook down in 20 feet of clear water, set in a mud bottom. No significant swell, and trade winds ventilating the boat. Feels pretty good. Karen says this can't be Fiji....the anchorage is too safe and comfortable. We'll sleep well tonight.

Ted