On Q Dock,Opua, NZ We crossed from the open ocean into the Bay of Islands at 1538 yesterday,Wednesday 4 December,passing Tikitiki Island on our starboard beam. Velic was secured to the Q Dock in Opua at 1809. The passage took 8 days, 6 hours, and 50 minutes; about a day better than expected. Distance sailed was 1139 nm. Mostly sailing on a close reach or beam reach, with 3 days, 15 hours, and 45 minutes of motoring. We did not run out of fuel, but did transfer 40 liters from two jerry jugs into the main tank yesterday morning. After we get settled I will dip the fuel tank to measure actual usage. I am curious how accurate my fuel calculations were.

We've had coffee and breakfast and are now waiting for NZ customs officials to clear us into the country. Then we will move to a berth in the marina and head for hot showers. In the cabin it's 22c and 81% RH. It's 24.7c in the estuary.

Motor sailing on autopilot towards Tikitiki Island, entrance to BoI: 44.5 nm to go.

Grey morning and long, slow roll provides welcome relief from yesterday evening. Around 1600 the wind went very light, the sky was already filled with squalls and rain all around, but the sea was a confused mess of high waves at 2+ meters, with a few at 3+ meters. With no wind, it was a mess. Velic was rolling 40 degrees side to side. Prognostication also confused the skipper: How long will the frontal band last? Will the squalls bring severe winds or just rain? Will the wind fill in after the frontal band? Do we switch to auto-pilot mode? Can the autopilot steer in these heavy and confused seas? And, of course, the trusty windvane could not steer without wind, so Velic was beam-on to the sea. Finally the prognosticator, and procastinator (me), remembered that the GFS grib forecast ~10 knot wind all night. Too light to sail in, especially in this messy sea. After attempts at a few different tactics, two and a half hours later found us motoring with the auto-pilot steering; main double-reefed and strapped in tight, jib down on deck and pole stowed.

Paul Krugman writes a lot about economic forecasting, and whether or not economists fess-up to being wrong sometimes. Well, sometimes it's beyond GREAT to be very, very wrong. Yesterday morning I was fussing about the forecast +3m swell. As it turned out, we did experience +3m waves, but all from the NW; that is following seas driven by the local winds. Fantastic! Velic can handle following seas quite well, even +3m on short periods. And, even better, the GFS grib forecast was correct that by this morning there would be, essentially, no waves.

Now I am fussing about fuel consumption, hours to run, and what's left in the tank. Since the tachometer & engine hour-meter died in Fiji, fuel consumption is based on (hopefully accurate) log entries of engine on-off times. Oh well, what else is there to do? I'll go out on a limb: It looks like we'll arrive in Opua late afternoon or early evening today.

Broad reaching on starboard tack.

We're sailing under a double reefed main and yankee (80% working jib) poled to leeward. This is my favorite downwind sail configuration if there's any wind at all. It's fast, stable, and quiet. No slatting of main or collapsing and popping of the jib. It's also quite resilient, handling various wave and wind combinations well. It's rolly with the short period 1m seas, but we're running with them and there is enough wind so that we're not rolling over center. Rolling back and forth on one side is fine. Rolling back and forth over center (straight up) is not so fine. We're now within 184 nm of the entrance to Bay of Islands. ETA is mid-Wednesday, that is middle of the day tomorrow. By later today the gale west of Northland and moving over Northland should begin to ease. A SW swell of up to 3.5m is forecast by GFS to reach us sometime this morning and then abate later today. There is not a whole lot of advantage to slowing down and waiting for those waves would reach our current position anyway. And then the 3+m waves return again beginning Wednesday afternoon through Friday. By tomorrow morning we should be in the lee of North Cape. Wave forecast from GFS grib. An interesting phenomenon that we will test in real life is whether the 30+ knot gale with its northerly quadrant winds will dampen the 3+ meter waves from the south Tasman and Antarctic. Wind creates waves, it should dampen them. I wonder what Willard Bascom would have to say?

Motorsailing in very light morning breeze.

Clear and sunny morning with long low rolling swell from the E. We've been motoring since Saturday evening. It's a bit boring, but allows for rhumbline driving. GFS grib promises a Northerly quadrant breeze to develop this afternoon. Maybe we can sail again. A warm and sunny cockpit shower for Randy left the whole crew feeling better. It's 25c and 74% RH in the cabin and 22.8c in the ocean. All is well on board.

Motoring with main up. Not enough wind to be motor-sailing.

Motoring since 1900 yesterday as wind died away. This morning finds the wind beginning to hint at NE, with confused seas from recent squall. So motion aboard is rolly and chaotic. Not terrible, but not the nice even rock of yesterday reaching on light SE winds. Various squalls about this morning. Just spent last hour dodging one with a jog to the east. Ocean is 26.2c. In the cabin it's 23c and 70% RH this morning. 444nm to Tikitiki Island at entrance to Bay of Islands. Next goal is to avoid sailing directly over Tui Seamount. All is well on board.

Close reaching under single reef main and yankee jib.

Wind has veered from ESE to SSE and eased, bringing us from a beam reach to a close reach. The sea state has become much better, swells and wind waves are smaller and more organized. There was some 'booshing' and pounding yesterday with spray flying across the boat, but not too bad. We've certainly seen much worse. This morning is beautiful, nearly fully clear sky and a reasonably comfortable motion considering it's upwind sailing. We've been able to stay very nearly right on course. Considering that a plotted course is merely a general idea on a long passage, that's pretty good. It's 25.8c in the ocean, 22c and 72% RH in the cabin. 565nm rhumb line to go to Tikitiki Island at the entrance to Bay of Islands. It's so nice, I might have a second cup of coffee.

YIT hint: click on Map/Update, go to full screen view, and zoom out to see our track and position in the SW Pacific rather than just as patch of blue.

Close reaching on port tack.


Wind has eased and sea state is much more comfortable. Luckily dodged a big squall early this morning the NE. Ed observes that it's always rough over the ridge that runs in a southerly arc from Fiji to the Vanuatu chain along the north edge of the South Hebrides Trench. This has been our experience on this trip. Swells are much more orderly, longer in period and thus more comfortable now that we are south of the ridge and over the South Fiji Basin. Whether it's the benthic ridge, or just getting near the center of the high, or the latitude, I don't know. It's 27.7c in the ocean, 24c in the cabin with 74% RH. Only a very small flying fish was found on deck yesterday. Podcasts are now the go-to entertainment for all on board in seas too rough to read and on night watch. But, my goodness, those young people from America all talk so fast. All is well on board.

Beam reach port tack, sailing well under double reefed main and yankee Wind has backed and seas not so steep, so it is more comfortable aboard. Better than 150nm yesterday. Quite good for little Velic, and a consolation for the motion and noise. Ceva-i-ra reef is now abeam, 69 nm to the west. Next worry is North Cape, NZ. A lot of noise on deck at 0100 had me worried about a deck fitting or rigging failure, but it turned out to be a very large flying fish flopping around, caught by our high toe-rail. I will need to give him the deep-six this morning.

Close reaching on port tack. Off the dock at Port Denarau Marina yesterday at 11:20. Strong headwinds at Momi Point and out through Navula Pass, very localized combination on a hot Viti Levu island pulling in a sea breeze of Bligh Water, back filled by SE trades bending around the coast line. Rough seas last night, but fast sailing. Visually encountered a fishing boat with no AIS. Clearly receiving AIS as he hailed me in the radio by name. We had to divert 5nm west to avoid crossing his lines, which were 9nm long! He gave us speed, but not course. In a slip, admitted that he could not discuss course because it was a Chinese boat. About an hour later, he pops up on AIS. A courtesy, I think, to indicate that we were clear of his lines. And yes, Chinese, traveling at 6 knots eastward. Last night was rough. Velic fell off a few waves with a bang. First time ever. Seas were very short and steep and on the Starboard bow. This morning the seas have eased considerably and we are sailing well in a good direction and at good speed. It's always rough the first day out. The farther we get away from land, the more relaxed and comfortable I am. Few other boats, and no rocks; more even wind and well-behaved seas.

On the dock at Port Denarau, Fiji

We depart Port Denarau, Fiji today bound for Opua, NZ. Weather forecast looks promising for a nice passage.

On the dock at Port Denarau Marina


Watching the weather and preparing the boat for passage to NZ. Maybe this week. In the meantime, we're enjoying the comradery of our fellow yachties on the dock. Spectacular squalls over the weekend with lots of rain, thunder, and lightening. Strong and blustery winds from the NE and N. Wind seems to have backed to the NW or W this morning.

In Port Denarau Marina

We moved to Port Denarau Marina from Musket Cove this morning to begin preparations for the offshore passage to NZ. There is a long list of small to medium chores to finish while we monitor weather and look for the next weather window. Fortunately, we have time, what with our Fiji extensions.

On mooring at Musket Cove (Malolo lailai)


Complex cloud cover this morning with at least three types of cumulus. Quite windy yesterday, and sprinkled a little bit. But no heavy rain. Comfortable here, with a short row ashore for ambient showers and drinks with ice -- what a treat!

On mooring at Musket Cove (Malolo lailai)

We motor sailed from Waya to Malolo lailai yesterday in dying east winds. Coming around Malolo a grove of mast became visible, with many sailboats anchored in the fairway beyond the moorings. Feeling a bit skeptical, that all the moorings would be taken, we motored slowly forward and found a free mooring just outside the entrance to Musket Cove. Hurray! Sometimes you just get lucky. With our hard shell rowing dinghy, being close to the dinghy dock is a very nice situation.

It rained overnight, and is cool this morning with sunshine through clouds, for now. Forecast calls for rain.

At anchor in Natuvalo Bay.

Clear and sunny this morning. Conditions very localized by hills of Naviti Island. 30.1c in the pool. 27c and 70% RH in the cabin.

At anchor in Blue Lagoon, Nanuya Island

Rain began, again, at daybreak today. Yesterday's morning rain turned to clear sky by early afternoon. High stratus appeared in early evening. Swimming in Blue Lagoon among floating pumice was a new experience.

At anchor in Blue Lagoon, Nanuya Island

Rain began at daybreak. Some lightning and a short squall. Now solid rain and and occaisonal thunder. Flat grey skies with low ceiling. Yesterday motorsailed up from Natuvola Bay through some more windrows of pumice. There is now some pumice floating in Blue Lagoon. Rain is good for us, and washes the deck, but too bad for those here at the fancy resorts for their one week holiday in paradise. All is well on board.

At anchor in Natuvalo Bay, Naviti Island

We motor-sailed in strong gusty NE headwinds from Waya Island to Naviti Island yesterday. In the open stretch between the islands we passed many windrows of pumice. Most of it small gravel size, but a few orange or grapefruit sized. Our goal is to be in Blue Lagoon when the wind backs to the N and possibly NW as this trough passes over. It's 30.2c in the Pool; 26c and 86% RH in the cabin. Temps cooled down overnight, making for good sleeping, but for the blasty gusts over the hills. All is well on board.

Anchored in Yalobi Bay, Waya Island Hot and sunny yesterday, with NE winds as we motor-sailed from Vuda Point to Waya. Wind backed to the North by dinner time. Strange SE winds at 0300. Now light SW breeze. In the cabin 27c and 76% RH. Yesterday 68% RH at 1500. 30.2c in the pool. All is well on board

Warm and sunny this morning after a cool night.

Moored in Vuda Point Marina

Warm, bright, and sunny here this morning. Big contrast from yesterday when it rained all morning then cleared by mid-day. Yesterday evening was very nice, complimented by the 1/2 price pizza.

26c and 78% RH in the cabin. All is well.

In Vuda Point Marina

It's been raining continuously since 0230. Sunday we had heavy falls in the afternoon, then skies cleared yesterday. Yesterday we went into Lautoka by bus and were able to get Fiji visa extensions. So we don't have to leave soon and can wait for Tasman systems to settle into later spring patterns.

At anchor near Nabouwalu. Leaving early for crossing Bligh Water to Nananu passage. Very early departure from Rukuruku Bay yesterday to arrive here mid-day, before afternoon winds really kicked in. Even then, the last two hours were rough motor-sailing into the SE winds wrapping up the coastline of Vanua Levu.

At anchor in Vunisinu bay, Vanua Levu, Fiji. Fast sail yesterday in strong and gusty winds. Blasty gusts and whitecaps in this small bay all afternoon, but moderated by evening. Wind up again at 0200. Waiting here until wind drops, then begin moving west again. Maybe tomorrow. In the pool, water is 30.4c. In the cabin air is 23c and 64% RH. Cool and comfortable for sleeping, if a bit noisy. All is well on board.

If David could comment on high winds, and cessation thereof,in Fiji; we would appreciate it.

We're back anchored off Palm Lea after a little adventure. We tried to round Udu Point at the top NE end of Vanua Levu. However, upon leaving the protection of the Great Sea Reef, Cakaulevu, through Sau Sau pass we were thwarted by 18-20 knot winds and 1.5-2 meter swell at about 5 seconds all on the nose. Velic was hobby-horsing, VMG dropped to below 4 knots, and the crew was a bit queasy. And this with some 40 nm to go before reaching Udu Point. We turned back. The plan now is to head west towards Lautoka after crossing Bligh Waters, likely on Wednesday.

It's 24c in cabin and 76% RH. Very comfortable cool nights for sleeping. Relative Humidity has also been low these past few days. All is well on board

Anchored off Palm Lea Farms Resort on the north coast of Vanua Levu.

We had a wonderful yesterday. We rode into Labasa with Julie, a retired cruiser and owner of Palm Lea. There we had lunch and went shopping for provisions at the market and a grocery store. Then back to Palm Lea for naps and showers. Today will be more slack, and preparing for the rounding of Udu Point on the northeast corner of Vanua Levu. It looks a bit daunting. Palm Lea is truly and eco-farm resort with an abundant garden, goats, and a few cows.

There is an odd very low swell from the east. Odd because we are well inside the Great Sea Reef, Cakulevu, and many intermediate reefs as well. It rained hard yesterday afternoon in Labasa and here at Palm Lea. The dinghy was full of fresh water, so it and our muddy feet from the tramp through the mangroves, got a good wash. Hot and clear today. In the cabin 26c and 76% RH this morning. 30.6c in the pool (seawater we're floating in).

Anchored behind Cakari Island.

Anchored in lee of Vanua Levu near Naduri Bay Short motor sail yesterday with strange winds. Overall pattern of SE winds was replaced by light N winds along coast in the morning. Late morning a strong ENE wind, 11-16, developed bringing chop and whitecaps. We anchored behind a small island. Then a NW breeze developed in the late afternoon. This probably was a sea breeze as the island interior warmed. By sunset we had a SE wind at 7-10 knots, which died overnight. Four Fijian men in a longboat stopped by in the afternoon to visit. They offered us a mud crab, which we readily accepted. I offered a trolling lure in exchange, which they accepted. And they wanted to see the boat, so Ruth gave a nice tour of our home and I answered their questions about sailing and equipment.

At anchor in Vunisuni Bay 36 nm motorboat ride from Rukuruku Bay yesterday under blue skies and very light N breeze. We caught a small dogfish tuna, which made for a nice dinner. Smoke from fires on Vanua Levu, sugar cane fields I presume, was visible all day. Last night the light N wind died, replaced by a strong SE wind. Velic has been enveloped in smoke since 2300 last night, dropping a dry black ash on deck, although it has thinned this morning. Vunisuni Bay is a beautiful small bay with dramatic hills all around and open to the north, but well protected by multiple reefs. The shore line is mangrove. There are a few cattle in the low hills and a herd of goats in the upper hills. Although there is no village in this bay, there were long boats yesterday afternoon fishing. All is well on board.

Anchored in Rukuruku Bay on northwest corner of Vanua Levu. Nice sail from Bua Bay yesterday. A pair of dolphins greeted our arrival here yesterday, and a Fijian family out fishing stopped by for a visit. Expecting rain and northerly winds as trough comes over. 29c in the bay, 26c and 78%RH in the cabin.

Great sail from Wainunu bay to Bua Bay yesterday, frequently seeing mid-6 knots in little Velic with the Yankee jib and a double-reefed main. With a strong SE wind we were able to sail around Coconut Point, jibing and reaching all the way into Bua Bay. Large jellies are pulsing around Bua Bay, and fish jumping - presumably feeding, in the middle of the night.

Flat and quiet here this morning. We're moving on to Rukuruku Bay today.

Great sail yesterday from the informal anchorage off Cousteau resort in Savusavu Bay to Wainunu Bay. Cool and comfortable this morning. Sailing today to Bua Bay.

On mooring in Nakama Creek, Savusavu Fiji

Raining in showers with periods of not raining since yesterday noon. Not really 'clearing' as low cumulus cover persists between showers. Light SE breeze last evening and overnight. Now very still.

Big evening show as dozens of flying foxes circled over Nakama Creek at sunset hunting for insects. It's good to see them back. Last year the flying foxes were nowhere to be seen, displaced by the construction on Nawi Island.

It's 29.5c in the pool, 26c and 84% RH in the cabin. Yesterday the relative humidity fell to nearly 70 during the morning with the onset of a cool SE breeze.

On mooring in Nakama Creek, Savusavu Fiji


It rained most of the afternoon yesterday after a clear morning. Kind of muggy all day with high humidity and little wind. It's 29.5c in the pool (the water of Nakama Creek), 26c and 82% RH in the cabin this morning.

On mooring in Nakama Creek, Savusavu Fiji


Light cloud cover and light winds suggest a clear day after a rainy weekend with blustery winds. I expect that some of the clouds will burn off as the sun rises. It is 29.5c in the pool, 25c in the cabin and 84%RH.

On mooring in Nakama Creek, Savusavu, Fiji

It has been raining sporadically since yesterday afternoon with 100% cloud cover. Cloud base is low and rain clouds cover many of the mountain tops around the bay. Perfect weather for hot fish curry at Arun's Taste of Hidden Paradise.

In the cabin it's 26c and 79% RH. In the pool the water is 29.6c.

On mooring in Nakama Creek, Savusavu Fiji


The trough that was north of Fiji came across yesterday afternoon bringing low clouds sweeping over the mountains, gusty winds and rain. This morning wakes to dark grey skies, wind, and rain.


Yesterday we motored in from Cousteau's to Savusavu and picked up an ideal Mooring #11: Close to the dinghy dock (and Hot Showers) at Coprashed Marina, but away from the shore hub-bub and bugs. Destruction of Nawi Island for construction of a superyacht marina continues on the north side of the creek, but we're out of the way of the barges and crew boats.

At anchor off Cousteau Resort inside Savusavu Bay

Very calm and comfortably cool this morning. Dawn overcast is thin and may burn off as sun rises.

We motor-sailed yesterday from Viani Bay to Coustea's - the anchorage off Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Resort just inside Savusavu Bay. We had light to moderate south-east winds, as predicted on Windy ECMWF model. Motoring was uncomfortable until the southerly swell from the past three days settled down.

The big excitement and tragedy was catching a mahi-mahi and watching a second mahi-mahi chase it, clearly trying to get the red squid lure. But we lost it due to poor gaff technique. Quite disappointing.

Today we will go into Savusavu for a refresh & re-provisioning visit.

At anchor in Viani Bay, Fiji

Wind has dropped overnight. It's much less bouncy in the bay, but still the wind funnels right into the bay. No rain to speak of. We depart for Savusavu this morning.

We had a very nice lunch yesterday at Dive Academy ashore. Dive Academy is a small boutique dive resort on the beach among the coconut palms. Only four bure's. All supplies must come in by boat, but Naqara village with grocery stores and a fresh market on Taveuni Island is just across the Somosomo Straight. Lunch was served at small communal table and the same menu for all 10: 4 yachties and 6 guests/divers. It was fun to meet other people and hear their stories over lunch.

In the cabin: 26c and 66% RH. In the pool: 29.5c ( the swimming pool of water that we're floating in). Hot coffee and all is well on board.

At anchor in Viani Bay, Fiji


The forecasted trough passed over at 1100 yesterday bringing heavy rain and strong southerly winds. Viani Bay opens to the SE, so we three yachts and the one superyacht anchored here had little protection. Strong and gusty winds continued through the afternoon, with a short respite near sunset. South wind, with a touch of west in it, has resumed early this morning, with light showers. It's bouncy in the boat. In the cabin: 26c & 79% RH.


Yesterday rain filled the dinghy hanging on the port side, which had to be launched and bailed. Later we hoisted and stowed the dinghy on deck in preparation for moving. But this morning's conditions are not inviting us to go anywhere.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Fiji

Northerly breeze all day yesterday, 7-10 and nearing 12-14 mid-afternoon. But very clear sky. More clouds today, especially altocumulus bank to the east. Fabulous moonset this morning during during twilight. Five boats left last night around 2100, presumably for Vanua Balavu under a full moon and nearly no winds on an overnight passage.

We go diving & snorkeling here today.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Fiji


Clear sky with few clouds. A big change over the weekend as the low trough that brought frequent rain showers last week finally moved on. Now we're hoping for a window to sail the 65nm southeast to Vanua Balavu.


Yesterday we went into the main town on Taveuni, Naqara, for provisions, leaving at 6:15 am and back before noon. An enjoyable local road trip off the boat.


In the cabin it's 22c and 81%RH this morning. Very comfortable.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Island, Fiji Four boat here.

More wind than yesterday, again. Stronger SE winds have kicked in. It's 29.8c in the water, 26c and 82% RH in the cabin. It's been raining periodically as thick cumulus with squalls pass overhead.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Island, Fiji. Five boats here

More wind than yesterday, nice light breeze. It's 29.8c in the water, 26c and 83%RH in the cabin. It rained overnight and thick cumulus to west show rain below.

Today we will tackle a few chores on the list and enjoy the resort. We might discuss where to go next.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Island, Fiji. Four boats here.

Quiet morning. It's 29.8c in the water, 26c and 81% RH in the cabin. Heavy cumulus over the mountains of Taveuni promise more rain today. Rolly all night as a swell wraps around the SW tip of Taveuni, but not bad as the period is long.

Yesterday was "Resort Day". Hanging out with Paul and Karen of Gigi. A great lunch under the shade of a vale, protected from the showers but open to the breeze.

On mooring at Paradise Resort, Taveuni Island.


Yesterday was clear with light and variable winds, but for a strange bout of easterlies ~12 knots building to ~15 knots mid-morning. Then that died back to light and variable by noon which lasted all day. Very light NW at sunset. Squalls around yesterday, but clear overnight. Brief shower here at dawn this morning. Sort of consistent with the EC model on Windy, but for the easterlies. Less wind than the GFS model on Windy.


Yesterday we motor-sailed from the anchorage off Cousteau Resort beach inside Savusavu Bay to Paradise Resort near the southwest tip of Taveuni Island in company with Gigi. Leaving at 0600 we were moored at 1430. The big excitement was catching a large mahi-mahi yesterday on a home-crafted lure I bought from a local character. Nose and tail were turned up at the ends of our small cockpit.  Half was shared with Gigi, enough for 4-6 meals for each boat. And, four dolphin joined us for a bit as we approached Paradise Resort.

On the dock at CopraShed in Savusavu, Fiji

After raining overnight it seems to be clearing this morning. It was quite still last evening, but now there is a nice breeze from the SE. Mixed level altocumulus from the east and dark thick cumulus to the west. Inside the cabin it's 23c and 82% RH. Yesterday we washed the boat. Lots Magpies are leaving evidence of their presence. Flying foxes are back, hunting insects over Nawi Island in the evening. Last year they were scarce, due to the construction on Nawi Island having cut down their roosting trees. It's amazing how resilient nature can be, if we humans give it a chance.

On the dock at CopraShed in Savusavu, Fiji


Another fine morning after a cool night. This morning 23.5c and 81% RH in the cabin. Yesterday we put up the harbor awning to shade the cockpit and pickled the watermaker, so it seems we will be here for a few more days. A good time to check off items on the task list. All is well on board.

On the dock at CopraShed in Savusavu, Fiji

Hints of cumulonimbus developing above the cumulus. Went to the fresh market yesterday and got papaya, the especially sweet little Fiji pineapple, bananas, kalamancis, passion fruit, and eggplant.

In Savusavu on a mooring after a 16 day passage, including 5 days at S Minerva Reef. Savusavu is full. We picked up the last open mooring, and the first one near the mouth of Nakama creek.

Boats are here due to the weather, waiting for better conditions to cruise inter-island. And the ARC rally has arrived, as a group. All is well on board.

Sailing west along coast of Vanua Levu. 5 nm from reef pass into Savusavu Bay. Port broad reach under staysail alone.


Yesterday and last night a mix of sailing and heaving-to in order to time entrance through reef pass in daylight. The challenge has been to go slow enough to not arrive at night. Broad reaching with the staysail alone saw 5-6 knots. Late afternoon and through the night brought 3 meter seas. Squalls came at the rate of 2-3 per hour, bringing rain, gusty winds and more waves. The swell never did lengthen and smooth out, due to the frequent squalls I believe. Breakfast will be at anchor near Savusavu. All is well on board.

Sailing northwest in the Koro Sea, bound for Savusavu, Fiji Starboard broad reach under double reefed main and staysail.

Motion not bad but for occasional 3m swell that knocks boat around. Some waves slap the hull and send spray over the cabin top.

Sky is mixed low level cumulus that behave like mini-squalls bringing blasty gusts and rain. Altocumulus above that in clearing patches.

Venerable Aries wind vane is steering very well. All is well on board.

Sailing north bound for Savusavu, Fiji. We left S. Minerva Reef at noon on Tuesday.

Starboard beam reach under a deep reefed main & yankee jib (80% working jib).

Intermittent squalls all night. None very large or strong, but all brought increased wind, some rain, and then dead zone afterwards. Still some smaller cumulonimbus around horizon. Also overnight stretches of clear sky with bright stars and dense milky way. We've now passed Tavuni-i-ra and Ono-i-lan, the first small islands at the southern tip of the Lao islands geography. We're in Fijian waters now. It's 26c and 79%RH in the cabin and the aft stove gymbal squeaks. All is well on board.

After strong SE winds yesterday afternoon and overnight, wind has eased at dawn. We're rolling in large swells and lighter winds. Sailing under yankee jib (80%)and double reefed main. We'll shake out a reef when all crew are up. All is well on board. Brownies are a nice consolation.

Anchored in lagoon at S. Minerva Reef: Beautiful afternoon yesterday with no swell at low tide, no wind and bright blue sky. Rand went snorkeling with Citrus Tart and Gato Go. Ruth baked fresh bread and brownies for the upcoming passage. Overnight brought a front with strong and gusty winds, rain and SE winds. Wind has settle back to easterly quadrant, for now. It's likely we leave today for Savusavu, Fiji. In the cabin it's 24c and 75%RH All is well on board.

Anchored in lagoon at S. Minerva Reef: Yesterday was mostly overcast with a few smallish squalls. No real sun. This morning's sky looks more promising for nice weather with large patches of blue and pink undersides to the altocumulus layer. We prepared the boat for a passage to Fiji in possibly rough weather. It appears that a 'squash zone' of compressed isobars might be coming bringing strong winds, but in a favorable direction for our passage.

All is well on board.

Anchored in lagoon at S. Minerva Reef: Day 3. After a beautiful afternoon and evening a front come in early this morning bringing gusty winds and some rain. The sky is mostly overcast with complex layers of clouds: low and thick stratus and some altocumulus visible through the gaps above. There are a few blue patches. Definitely a change. Four boats remain in the lagoon. The sportfisher left yesterday morning. We'll be spending the day preparing for the next leg north to Fiji. While departure is still a few days away, a shallow trough could bring rainy weather, unpleasant for working on deck.

We watched episode 2 of Voyages of Discovery last night. It's about Lt. Cook's first major voyage. This was the first circumnavigation completed by the captain who began the voyage. Cook was the first captain to effectively prevent scurvy among the crew, even though no one really understand the cause yet.

All is well on board.

Anchored in lagoon at S. Minerva Reef: Day 2. Quite windy with gusts all night. Wind is backing to ENE. Lagoon is rolly at high tide, when some swell comes over the reef, and quite flat the rest of the time. The water is clear: We can see the bottom in 17m of water. Cabin 24.0c and 73%RH.

We watched the first episode of BBC Voyages of Discovery last night, about Magellan. It felt very appropriate, anchored here with no land is visible at upper tides. Eat your fruits and vegies!

Anchored in lagoon at S. Minerva Reef after seven day passage from Marsden Point, NZ. Windy with gusts here, windchop and a few white caps. Cabin 24.0c and 77%RH. Five boats in the lagoon, and one large sea bouy fetched up on the reef.

Motor-sailing in light easterlies for past day. Rand saw a larger meteor burn last night. Comfortable days and beautiful nights, but for lack of wind. Passing to the east of S Minerva Reef, leaving it to our west. We positioned the boat east of the rhumb in anticipation of close-reaching north on strong easterlies. We've had a few hours of that. Hope to anchor in N Minerva Reef today. All is well on board.

Motoring north towards Minerva Reefs. We hope to get there before strong northeaster winds develop. A beautiful full moon rise just after sunset in clear skies all night. Light chop from NE breeze. Half-way through batch of departure brownies. Cabin 22.5c & 72% RH, very comfortable. All is well aboard.

Motoring since 1730 yesterday. Great sailing yesterday. Slow at 3-4 knots, but smooth seas and warm dry weather. Home-made dyneema soft shackle replacing wire bail for pole topping lift clip point worked great. Then wind died near dinner time. All is well aboard.

Past 24 hours very light as wind backs to S. Uncomfortable yesterday rolling around in sloppy seas and light wind. Seas have now diminished and life is easy aboard. Sailing slowly NE while waiting for wind to fill in. Good breakfast in the forecast. Rumor has it that some of our positions this passage are showing in the northern hemisphere. Please disregard Rand's fat-fingered data entries. Be assured, we are about half-way between NZ and N Minerva Reef, in the southern hemisphere.

All is well aboard.

Wind is backing, as predicted, sailing nearly due north. Will need some sail change this morning to sail further east. I want to be south of the Minerva reefs when the wind shifts to the southeast. Last night a series of squalls swept through. Lots of wind and rain, but sky is clearing now, and barometer rising. It appears that the frontal band Gulf Harbor Radio was predicting for us did come, just a few hours early. Velic is sailing well. Still under double reefed main and staysail, an amazingly resilient configuration. All is well on board.

Sailing fast since mid-yesterday, pretty much in direction of rhumb line to Minerva. A few squalls have passed through with rain and classic calm behind. So, a number of sail changes. Now sailing on port broad reach under double-reefed main and staysail. Took down yankee jib at midnight. No more boats visible on AIS. All is well aboard.

Motoring in very light conditions. Rolling side to side from swell but no wind. Clear sky promises a nice day. Cabin 20°C 79% RH. Motoring is boring and noisy, but we are goind in the right directtion. All is well on board.

Velic is now in a berth at Marsden Cove Marina. Weather patterns look good for a departure tomorrow, Thursday 13 June, bound for Fiji via Minerva Reef. Today will be filled with final preparations for offshore sailing.

Anchored in the Nook arm of Parua Bay, near Marsden Point, NZ.

Tomorrow we'll go into Marsden Cove Marina and begin final preparations for clearing out on Thursday, 13 June. The weather window continues to look good for a few days of southerly quadrant winds, helping us sail NE towards Minerva Reefs and Fiji.

We docked at Riverside Drive Marina this afternoon after a slow and pleasant cruise from Opua and down the coast to Whangarei, taking five days for an 80 nm trip. Velic will remain here while Rand & Ruth fly back to the USA for a visit with family and friends. This concludes the 2018 cruising season.

Landfall North Cape lighthouse around 0400 (and that's a comfort; GPS doesn't replace everything). ETA Opua around 2100.

Now sailing in quiet lee of N. Cape without SW swell. Good sailing due south since 0230, with weird F5 blasts between 0400-0530. Motored 15.5 hours, sailed 8.5 hours in past 24. So will likely have enough fuel to reach Opua Q dock. Every hour sailing is 2 litres diesel fuel in tank + peace and quiet. Cabin 21.0c & 74%RH. Long sleeve fleece, pants and cabin slippers. Rand dug out his fleece beanie cap. All is well aboard.

Opua, New Zealand: Safe and tired on the Quaratine dock after a 9 day 9 hour passage. Now 20:45, and accomplished goal of docking at dusk. Will clear in tomorrow morning. Landfall made at 04:30 North Cape lighthouse. Strong SW wind built by mid-day, as predicted, so we had fast close reaching until Bay of Islands. Motor sailed with only double reefed main into BoI, wind on the nose. Hand steering the last three hours: too rough for the toy tiller pilot and too tight an angle for the windvane.

Beautiful blue sky morning finds us motoring since midnight in lumpy seas and very light breeze, wind at lower end of forecast range. Rand is beginning to check the fuel "gauge" (consumption calcs) regularly, neurotically? 120 nm to North Cape, another 72 down the coast to Bay of Islands, plus 12 inside BoI to Opua: Not enough fuel to motor the whole way. At least there's good coffee while we wait for wind. All is well aboard.

North set current that has been against us at 1 ~ 1.5 knots for two days seems gone.

Cabin 22c & 80% RH, so much cooler. Long fleeces and warm slippers now. Still sunny days and yesterday was glorious sailing reaching with yankee jib, staysail and reefed main, tempered only by that pesky north current. Now racing to the barn before the south winds. All is well aboard.

Sailing south on starboard beam reach. Wind direction stable, but variable speed, plus squalls. Yankee jib and double reefed main since yesterday afternoon. 434 nm to Opua. Cabin 23c & 78% RH. All is well aboard.

Motor-sailing SW, West wind developing - should be sailing before breakfast. Clear skies and sun welcome after clouds, rain, and confused wind as trough passed over Friday evening to Saturday evening. With 567 nm to go, we're just shy of half way. Now south of the tropic of Capricorn, ~23? 26S, and out of the torrid zone. All is well.

Sailing! Finally, after two days of motoring. Starboard broad reach directly to next waypoint. Busy night with sail changes and squalls. Now under reefed main and yankee jib. Main house batteries may need TLC, or more. They don't seem to be holding a charge. 678 nm to Bay of Islands (Opua). Otherwise, all is well on board.

Motoring southwards, monitoring fuel consumption. SE winds brought welcome cooling yesterday. Amazing 3m swell from SW yesterday from Southern Ocean, long and very deep, but very long period so unnoticeable in boat motion. Now gone by. All is well aboard.

all is well aboard. 940 nm to Bay of Islands

As of 0500: Probably one the best departures for a passage ever. Left Port Denarau at 1135 Tuesday with afternoon sailing in moderate NW winds on a broad reach nearly on the rhumbline to NZ, with minimal swell and wave from behind. A very large squall brought fickle and confused winds and rain in the middle of the night. All is well aboard.

In Port Denarau Marina. Planning to check out tommorrow, 27 Nov, heading for Opua, NZ.

In Denarau waiting for a weather window to appear for the passage south to NZ.

In Vuda Point Marina preparing to depart for NZ. Waiting for acceptable weather window

Anchored in Albert Cove, NE tip of Rabi Island. Arrived yesterday. Hope to stay a few days. Beautiful spot and well protected from SE tradewinds.

Docked at Coprashed Marina in Savusavu, Fiji. Arrived 10:00 am yesterday, Monday, after 14 day passage from NZ - including two day stop at S. Minerva. Hot Showers! Coffee cups not sliding across the table! Paw-paws and Guava in season! And a mixed blessing: Internet access. Rand delayed reading the news for 22 hours after arrival.

Sailing in near perfect conditions. Main with one reef, Yankee poled opposite; wing-on-wing all night. 14 nm from entrance to Savusavu Bay. Should be in before noon. All is well aboard.

Sailing well on Yankee jib and double reefed main. Almost sedate after very boisterous sailing overnight. Now between Navutu Reef and Tavunasigi Island. Entering the Koro Sea. Specturlar full moon and bright red Mars last night. All is well aboard, but brownies are getting to the point where they benefit from a dunking in the cup.

Broad reaching starboard tack, deep reefed main left from last night, yankee poled to leeward. Will shake out reef after coffee. Squalls this morning bring rain, then leave light wind behind them. Rolling in Southerly swell incommensurate with winds. Fabulous clear sky last night with bright full moon and big bright red Mars. Zero urban light pollution.

Hove To - beginning at 0130. Sequence of squalls and no wind. Waiting for stable easterlies.

At anchor in South Minerva Reef. Depart today, Thursday, for Savusavu, Fiji. It's a 460 NM passage that should take us about four days. Watched 12 Monkeys last night. About questionable reality in a post apocalypse dystopia. All is well aboard.

At anchor in South Minerva Reef. Arrived yesterday mid-day. Low did pass over yesterday with wind and rain. Watched The Lion in Winter last night. Great acting about a disfunctional family. All is well aboard.

At anchor in South Minerva Reef. Arrived yesterday mid-day. Low will pass over today, bringing wind and rain. All is well aboard.

Motoring for 15 hours in zero to very light breeze. Passed through band of squalls yesterday afternoon with light showers. Otherwise clear and fine weather, but for no wind. Hoping for South Minerva Reef today. All is well aboard.

Close reaching under yankee and double-reefed main after dry squall last night. 117 nm to S Minerva, so slow is good for arrival tomorrow, maybe.

All is well.

Great sailing past day starboard broad reach, fast and comfortable. Wind now easing and backing. Nearly making rhumb line to S Minerva reef. Crew feeling much better aboard.

All is well aboard.

Correction: Position 19 July s/b 29°51E.

Close reaching in bouncy seas. Double reefed main and staysail only overnight due to gusts and squalls. Rough day yesterday close-hauled. Wind is now veering to SE. Should be more comfortable and faster sailing later today.

Close-hauled stbd tack, Yankee jib and double-reefed main. Uncomfortable. Looking forward to wind shift as low passes by.

Motoring since 1800 yesterday evening. Brilliant sky with starlight reflecting off the glassy ocean. Making water. Light and variable winds yesterday daytime, bringing two sail changes in attempts to keep sailing. Hot coffee, a banana and a brownie for breakfast.

Sailing well. Windvane working perfectly. All is well aboard, albeit with lot's of fleece. Milky Way bright white across the sky and Mars a bright red disc at midnight.

In Marsden Cove Marina. Planning to check out and depart tomorrow, again, for Fiji via Minerva Reef.

The past two weeks have been spent at Riverside Drive Marina, tearing down and refurbishing the recalcitrant Aries wind vane, and then tuning up various other sailing gear.

Back in Whangarei, NZ. We checked out on Wednesday and motored to sea in beautiful but calm weather. Breezed picked up late afternoon and we set sail. But the Aries windvane would not cooperate. It worked perfectly on the passage from Fiji to NZ in October 2017. Hand steering to Fiji was not attractive, so we returned for repairs and are now looking towards the next weather window. All safe and sound, but disappointed.

In Marsden Cove Marina tonight. Planning to check out Wednesday for Minerva Reef and Fiji

Cleared in to NZ at Opua, Bay of Islands Marina: Passage 9 Days & 21.5 hours

Port broad reach, Main 1 reef, Yankee jib poled to leeward. Pacing for Monday arrival in Opua. Cabin 22°C & 80% RH. All is well.

Sea state less chaotice, long swell more orderly. Broad reaching under Yankee jib and deep reefed main. More comfortable aboard. All is well.

Wearing fleece, all is well.

Destination: Opua. Sailing under staysail and deep reefed main. Wind has eased since last evening. All is well.

Consistent easterlies for 24 hours. Isolated squalls. Fast reaching for little Velic. All good.

Fine and easy sailing. Caught large mahi mahi yesterday.

Large squalls with massive lightning all night.

Depart Port Denarau, Fiji today bound for Opua, New Zealand.

0800 FST: Anchored in Blue Lagoon, Yasawa Group, Fiji. Clear, sunny skies. Moderate SE winds.

0700 NZDT: At anchor in Tutukaka harbor. Will travel today to Bream Head and Urquharts Bay. There to anchor and wait for low tide Thursday AM for run up river estuary to Whangarei.

Opua Marina: Hot Showers and Fresh Food!

0600 NZDT: Encountered Frontal Band 1700 yesterday. Light rain showers. Wind > 20 brief periods only. Arrive Opua today. All well aboard.

0700 NZDT: contrary current ~1 knot. All well aboard

0700 NZDT: Timing to meet frontal band north of N Cape. Opua ETA Saturday mid-day. Reminds us of approaches to Cape Disappointment and Columbia River bar. All is well.

as of 0700 NZDT: contrary current ~0.8 kts, cool, all in fleece and well on board

as of 0600 NZDT: Sailing fast, for this old boat. ETA Friday. May need to delay coastal approach to meet Friday frontal band offshore and arrive Saturday. All well on board.

as of 0600 NZDT: Sailing well on planned course, a bit ahead of plan, all well on board.

good signal

0500 NZDT: large SW swell now past, much easier sailing. All well on board.

as of 0500 NZDT: Departed N Minerva Reef 0945 Friday. Rough until front passed by. All well on board

At anchor in N. Minerva Reef: Discussed when a slow boat should depart Minerva!

1700 UTC will be entering N Minerva Reef this morning. All is well on board

hove to waiting for the wind to back. 140nm to N Minerva

Decided to bypass Minerva, heading for Opua. ETA Friday, Nov 18. Distance 960 nm

Tacked, sailing east. Position 103 nm north of Minerva, but wind forecast SSE strengthening all day. Positioning to heave to later today and wait for wind to back to SE. All is well on board.

Late at net time. Position 21 56S and 178 21W , speed 6.2 and course 108T. SSE 12, with swell SE 1m. They will be thankfull they are not further south with the 4m swell!

trying to decide whether to stop at Minerva.

Cool, grey and light wind all night. Major squall yesterday evening. Wind increasing this morning. All is well on board.

Broad reach port tack under reefed main and yankee. Good sailing, all is well on board. As of 0600 07/11/2016

Depart Vava'u group Sunday, 06 Nov 2016, bound for N. Minerva Reef, then on to Opua NZ.