We have now been in the Tuomotus for almost a week, and each day just keeps getting better. These remote atolls have crystal clear blue water, with the best snorkeling we've ever had!
On our first day, after making phone calls and picking up some more supplies, we did boat chores following the crossing while Doug and Shelby went snorkeling and were excited to be joined by five black tip reefed sharks. Shelby was bubbling over with enthusiasm when she was telling us of their adventure.
On Monday after finding the last four baguettes that the island had left, we set sail for a famous snorkeling location that we learned about from the dive shop. It was so incredible here, that we swam for longer than we had planned to so couldn't reach our original destination, but since cruising is all about flexibility we simply sailed about 20 miles to the next atoll called Tuao. This was quite exciting, as each atoll requires access by going through a narrow pass. During slack tide, it is usually a non-event, but we caught it as it was ebbing and we didn't have much choice as it was almost dark. We entered during huge standing waves and we felt like we were in a washing machine in the midst of it all. Our motoring speed was 7.5 knots but with the current fighting us we were only moving forward at just under 3 knots. Shelby hunkered down below as we were inched our way through the pass, with waves breaking over the stern. Quite the excitement, but no danger (honest, honest!!!)
We spent a night in this idyllic anchorage and the following morning after swimming we moved on to enter the only other pass on Tuao (a walk in the park). We met up with some fellow cruisers onboard their 66-foot Oyster "Elvis the Gecko". (yes, Halldo, Shorry, Murray, John and David, I know you can are salivating) The family consists of the mom/dad and three kids, including one girl named Ruby who is Shelby's age. They also have two full time crew members. They are from England and it was nice to meet them. Doug went out kayaking and Peter and I went exploring with the dinghy so we went over to their boat and brought Ruby back for a private visit with Shelby. They got on well and enjoyed some time without adults. We look forward to meeting up with them along the way for the girls to get together again.
Peter & I met up with David (the father) and Gloria (6) and Bruce (8) at the dock, while the only family that lived there was sorting through their fish catch. They were throwing back into the sea the smaller fish that they wouldn't be able to sell, so we were treated to a shark frenzy as five sharks fought over the bounty. As an added bonus, we saw two huge stingrays, gliding back and forth as we watched them from just a foot off the water on the dock. Tres cool, as my Kylie would say!
The day before yesterday we motorsailed to another atoll called Apataki. We entered the southern pass, which was wide and deep and during slack tide. The lagoon within the atoll is like a different world. We anchored off a motu (little island off the reef) and promptly went for another snorkel - this time we got a shot of a shark that came to check us out. In the evening we taught Shelby how to play euchre and she loved it, so the four of us have played each night.
Yesterday, Peter and I got up at 5:00a.m., and although it was still dark, the full moon was shining like a beacon on this piece of paradise. We hopped in the kayaks and paddled in and out of smaller lagoons, where we had a front row seat to watch the sun rise. Even grumpy old Peter was moved by it.
This morning, on Glenda's birthday, we will be making our way along the atoll, stopping to snorkel and then heading out the pass just before sunset to begin our final 2-night crossing to Tahiti. If possible, I'll update the blog tomorrow during the transit and also Sunday once we arrive.
We are looking forward to seeing Kylie on Monday.
P.S. We were sorry to hear about the violent storm at Doug's parents farm. Can't believe you were without power for 36 hours and had hail - plus losing your gazebo and having a barbeque fly off the deck!!! Glad it has subsided now.
Until next time...have yourselves a fabulous weekend and Happy Birthday again Glenda.
1 comment:
Every time I read your blog, I shake my head in amazement. How will you ever begin to truly explain this experience to the rest of us. So glad you are safe.
Give that little cutie Kylie a hug.
Cheers,
Rita
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