Nearly Home

At anchor in Hooks Bay at the north east end of Waiheke Island. What a change to be finally at anchor after the last couple of weeks of constant action.
There was not much time for writing the blog and Shay has kindly filled in the last couple of days after we phoned him.
We dropped anchor at 3.30 am this morning after an exciting but progressively more wearing trip down from Opua.
We arrived at the outer edge of the Bay of Islands at dawn on Wednesday, it was great to see the NZ again. We were tied up at the Quarantine wharf in Opua by midday and soon had cleared customs. Ted and I checked the local weather forecasts and it seemed best to go south straight away or we may be a few days awaiting better conditions.
We had a good NW wind that afternoon and into the night although the wind became lighter. However a front came through at dawn yesterday with wind of 30 knots and we were soon running before it in an exciting sail down to near Kawau Island. We intended stopping overnight there but as we approached a fierce SW wind change came in gusting to 35 knots.
It was clear we would struggle against this headwind to reach the anchorage so we set a course for the east end of Waiheke Island. The wind was very strong gusting to 40 knots and the seas built up. We carried on under reefed sails and hand steered in half hour shifts. We were already tired having had little sleep in the last 24 hours
Despite the forecast of the wind becoming less at dusk, it was not until 2.00 am that the wind dropped a little enabling us to reach Hooks Bay.
Today has been a peaceful day of sleeping and relaxing. We should be back in Howick within the next 48 hours.

It has been a excellent voyage and I would like to thank Ted for joining Katipo in Fiji and being both great company and crew. Many thanks also to Shay in Auckland who monitored the weather and kept in touch via Katipo's satellite phone with advice.
Within the next few days I will write more about the voyage overall and also a few changes I will consider in terms of modifications to Katipo to make sailing easier.
Best wishes to all
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Nearing Waiheke

Katipo sailed through the night last night and was nearing Kawau today where they were planning to stop for the night for a rest. Unfortunately a 30kn SW built and they have had to divert to the south end of Waiheke where they plan to spend tonight.

The wind has dropped with the sun, and they should now be seeing only 15kn or so.

Hopefully a good rest for them tonight and back home in the morning.

Shay

Arrived in Opua

Katipo arrived safely in Opua late morning and cleared customs. They have taken advantage of the good weather and are about to round Cape Brett on route to Auckland over night.

Expect a more detailed post tomorrow.

Shay

Gibbous Moon

Coordinates: 34 16 S 174 02 E
Bearing: approx 203 T
Boat Speed: 3 Kn
Wind Direction:SSW to SW
Wind Strength:5 to 7
Sea state: calm , slight swell

Crew health: Great

Fish caught: None
The wind has gone round to the West a short time ago and we can at last make a good course to close the coast
Last night on my watch from midnight to 3 am it was very cold, so I had many layers on . However there was a gibbous moon and a silvery path across the water. You could see your way around the decks in the moonlight without a torch. We ghosted along at about 4 knots to windward. So different from the experience as we left Fiji, sailing into 20 to 25 knots in steep seas and inky black nights.
Ted and I are still smiling today about the weather forecast yesterday which Shay sent through. It was like magic. The forecast said expect the northerlies to change to SW at 1.00 pm . At 1.10pm it happened suddenly within the space of 4 minutes!!
Progress currently is slow but steady and we have all sail set - the main, staysail and genoa !
I made another loaf today but as it was too cold to get the dough to rise. So I sat the baking container with dough inside on a hot water bottle which I keep on board lest anyone is feeling hypothermic. It worked a treat and within half an hour was ready to bake !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

brief update

Coordinates: 33 12 S 173 04 E
Bearing:135 currently
Boat Speed:4.5
Wind Direction: SW fluctuates some
Wind Strength: 20 gusting 28
Sea state: confused

Crew health: fine
all is well , great run with the northerlies until 1.10 pm when suddenly changed to SW as forecast . Now less comfortable sailing as going to windward in a sea with cross swells and chop . However we are getting closer to North Cape of NZ
Few more sea birds about which is a cheering to see, especially as it is all no sun , grey clouds and intermittent rain as the front crosses us .

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

A fair wind at last

Coordinates:31 32S 172 28E
Bearing: 159 T
Boat Speed: 4.5 to 5.5 knots
Wind Direction: northerly
Wind Strength: fluctuates 8 to 15
Sea state: swell from SW

Crew health: Fine
Fish caught: NONE !!

At last a fair wind on another hot sunny day . We have the big red reacher sail up and we are gliding along with the self steering wind vane as usual doing all the work while we sit in the cockpit and marvel at old Bill Belcher's ( the wind vane designer's ) cunning work putting the plan together. Peter please tell PQ that the new universal joint he supplied is doing a great job since I installed it in Denerau.
More bread making today , an even bigger and better loaf.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Another hot day

Coordinates:29 45S 171 58.9E
Bearing: 180 T
Boat Speed: 4 to 5kn
Wind Direction: fluctuates but in the last hour has swung giving us a good course, prior to that our course was 240
Wind Strength: 7 to 13 kn
Sea state: calm but big swell still

Crew health: Fine

We were becalmed again from late afternoon yesterday until 2 am in the depths of the night when there was just enough wind to have us moving again. Always tricky by yourself in the dark trying get orientated, to go from becalmed and pointing in any direction, to sails up and on course again Today a steady breeze which hopefully will eventually go more northerly.
Made a great loaf in the oven today ( after having a lesson whilst in Fiji from Denise some weeks ago )
Rice Risotto for lunch incorporating a tin of interesting Dahl Soup we found in an Indian supermarket in Nadi . Fortunately we have three more tins too.
The forecasts forwarded by Shay have proved very accurate to date so hopefully a good wind tomorrow and no becalming tonight !!

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Becalmed

Coordinates: 29 12 S 172 38 E

Not a breath of wind . Sunny , blue sky and we had a great Thai curry with the last of the kumara included for lunch , but no wind !
However this is as expected and forecast as the centre of a high passes over us. Plenty of good books on board to read and a few odd jobs about the boat to sort out.
No wind last night either but there was a light sailing breeze from the south this morning so we a made a few miles.
All is well on board.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

weather

Coordinates: 28 39.13 S 173 20.54 E
Bearing: 240 T
Boat Speed: 4
Wind Direction: wind changing
Wind Strength: 13
Sea state: some swell

Crew health: great

At the moment we are not sailing the best course . The wind is fickle , in fact a little while back we were sailing along fine when within 2 minutes the wind direction shifted 90 degrees ! All is well on board however and better wind is forecast within 48 hours. We hear on the radio that the weather has been a bit grim down there in NZ , and boats which have been racing along from the north at higher speeds than Katipo must be finding it uncomfortable nearer the coast.
So we cooked an excellent vegetable curry for lunch and are ticking along quite pleasantly. As for fishing - this area of the Pacific has been totally fished out !!!!

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Excellent sailing

Coordinates: 27 19.7 S 173 21.5 E
Bearing: 17 5 T
Boat Speed: 5.5
Wind Direction: NNW swinging more to NW just now
Wind Strength: 8 to 14 knots
Sea state: slight swell

Crew health: fine

An great day , almost perfect catamaran sailing conditions . Good following wind , head sails poled out one each side . no main sail up , and the Katipo nearly steers herself. It is like a smooth magic carpet ride. Decks are dry , no spray flying as happens when one sails to windward.
Keel boats would be rolling from side to side now I am sure, in a most uncomfortable way !
Last night we hammered along through the darkness after the wind rose at about 10 PM.
Cooking and all the other tasks are so much easier under these conditions, and I nearly forgot to mention the usual blue sky and sunny shorts and tee shirts weather!
Wind just swinging to NW so have re organised sails but still good progress

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

A painted ship

Coordinates:25 47.38 S 173 03.6 E
Bearing:175 T
Boat Speed: 2 to 3 Kn
Wind Direction:NNE
Wind Strength: 1 to 7 knots
Sea state: swell from SE
Crew health:fine

Last night it was a little like the Ancient Mariners Ship - " as idle as a painted ship upon a painted ocean"
No albatross about but totally becalmed all night . A few puffs of wind early morning but not much all day. We have the large red light weather furling Reacher sail up and that is giving two or three knots plus the current is adding 1.4 knots !
The excitement today was to be buzzed by an Airforce Orion plane . It circled Katipo after swooping to what appeared to be about 100 metres at the most above the water. We had a friendly chat over the VHF radio . They were just checking boat name , last port . and port of destination including ETA . I could not help much on the last point and I told them the winds were light and it was hard to know.

I thought we had caught a fish this morning when checking the line at first light. It was a fair sized Wahoo but was just a ghastly corpse
mainly head and back bone. Hungry teeth tearing at the flesh had been at work in the black depths during the night, maybe squid?? You would not want to fall over board round here!
Very hot again but all is well and we are making steady if slow progress. So much better than the 45 knots of wind at times on the way up here in July.
We have checked the boat speed and distance run each day by several ways against the reading of boat log device in the side of the hull under water. This little wheel which spins around around as the water goes past must have been invaded by weed or barnacles !
However it is not important it just means that initially we had gone faster than we had thought.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Creeping along

Coordinates:24 55S, 173 10.7E
Bearing:207 T
Boat Speed: 2 Kn
Wind 6 Kn ESE

Another glorious day , blue sky , occasional fluffy white cloud , deep blue coloured sea and a lazy swell rolling in from the SE
A good day for relaxing , tidying up on board and doing a few minor jobs.
Fortunately there is a current of about 1 knot going our way here so that is helping us along.
Last night all the stars were out a huge glimmering dome overhead which one rarely sees in NZ
We can now receive Radio NZ national program from about one hour after sunset until about one hour before dawn. During the day solar cosmic radiation interferes with reception.
So should you wake up at say 2.30 am you can guess that out here I will be sitting in the cockpit keeping a lookout whilst listening to the radio!!
I am afraid I overlooked the time today hence this message is a little later than usual
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

sailoing south

Coordinates: 23 16 S 174 03 E
Bearing:210
Boat Speed :5
Wind Direction: SSE to SE
Wind Strength:15 to 22
Sea state moderate but some steep chop at times!!


Crew health: fine

All well . Last night and this morning a SSE change was forcing us further west but better this afternoon after the wind backed some
Trying fishing but no luck
Ted cooked a fine rice dish for lunch and it has been a bright sunny day . However it is getting slowly cooler . Thermal under wear on the night watch . Bit of a shock after all that time in Tonga and Fiji !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

brief update

Coordinates: 21 46.6 S 175 10 24 E at 16.10 NZ time
Bearing: 210 T approx
Boat Speed: 4.5 to 5.5 kn occas 6.5
Wind Direction: ESE
Wind Strength: 15 to 17
Sea state:fairly calm

Crew health: fine

Cloudy start to day and fairly slow night speed. Gusting 30 at times this morning and often had to reef sails but now sun out all afternoon and wind has steadied so making good pleasant progress. Shay in Pt Chev Auckland is watching several marine weather web sites and our course is being tailored via his satellite phone advice as to the best course to take advantage of the winds around the current high pressure system.
Plenty of fresh vegetables on board so Ted cooked a big meal at midday.
Two large flying fish on deck this morning
All going well
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

settling into life at sea

Coordinates: 20 26.83 S 176 07.7 E
Bearing: 210 T
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength:20 knots mainly
Sea state: better than yesterday , settling

Crew health: fine

Today the sun is out , the head winds are less strong and the steep short waves have calmed so everything is going well. Sailing to windward is never very comfortable but we are making steady progress and more favourable winds are forecast in the next few days. Leaving Fiji there is usually a SE wind to contend with initially.
Sweet Fijian tomatoes for lunch today with cucumbers , beetroot the last of the fresh bread eaten in the cockpit . The sailing life is pretty good

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Update

Coordinates:19 14.37 S 176 48 E
Bearing: 200 T
Boat Speed: 4 to 5
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength:20 to 28 kn
Sea state: fairly rough
Crew health: fine
:
head winds down coast yesterday so later than wished at pass but went through in daylight
fairly rough night sailing into SE trades on port tack , Sails reefed at moment but all is well

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

departing Fiji

A short early message today as we will be busy later today exiting the Navula Pass into the open ocean.
All is well , we are all stocked up with supplies . The forecast suggests a slowish light weather passage but you never know.
We will send daily messages and position reports from now onwards every afternoon

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

message from Denerau Fiji

Dave went back to Upper Hutt two days ago after a good week sailing round some local anchorages on the coast here and over on Malolo Island. Ted flew in from Auckland to crew on the voyage bound for NZ. The cruising boats are starting to thin out as some have gone south already and most will in the course of the next month. The only alternative is to stay here on board in a suitably protected spot or just leave your boat here during the cyclone season in such a place like Vuda Point Marina. However in the last cyclone there was still damage to many boats left there. Some folk head north to Pacific Islands nearer the equator to be north of the danger zone.
A few interesting points last week. Firstly I had been swimming under the boat scraping weed and barnacles off and had just climbed back on board when a sea snake swam by along the side of the hull - all black and yellow banded and looking very threatening . The bite of some species is very poisonous.
While under water I had to scrape off quite a large number of Goose Neck Barnacles which I have never seen on the hulls before. They can grow quite large and hang on a fleshy stalk.
The other unusual visitors were a bunch of what some people call 'Jesus Bugs' because they can walk on water. Ten delicate little insects prancing about next to the dinghy on a calm early morning. The other name is Pond Skater and I remember seeing them on ponds in England years ago whilst quietly fishing. Apparently 10% of the species live in marine environments skating about on their long legs which have huge numbers of tiny hairs which helps repel the water. The surface tension of the water is the main factor holding them up.
Ted and I are busy studying the weather reports at the moment, trying to work out when will be the ideal time to head south on Katipo.
Next message will be sent later in the week with an update and to let you know how the weather is going.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

news from Fiji

Since the last update about a week ago there have been comings and goings !
We spent a few days in Denerau restocking with food , diesel , water and petrol ( for the outboard engine) and doing some sorting out and re-stowing on board . Sadly Denise flew out back to NZ last Wednesday, we have had an excellent adventure together over the last two months but the cyclone season approaches at the end November and I know that she will be looking forward to catching up with our family and especially seeing our grand daughters again. Dave a friend from Upper Hutt flew in yesterday for a week. Next weekend Ted from NZ arrives to crew on the return voyage bound to Opua from Lautoka our check out port.
Denise and I met John a fellow Wharram catamaran enthusiast recently, its amazing what a web of contacts exists.
One repair job which I have completed on Katipo was to replace the worn universal joint on the port hull windvane trim tab on the back of the port rudder. Ted and I had noticed an early problem on arrival in Tonga and despite the fact that it still is holding together, I did not want to trust it on the ocean voyage back to NZ. Peter a friend in Howick sourced one and son Tim brought it with him when he flew in .last month
The work involved marking very accurately the positions for the bolt holes in the fitting then finding someone with a drill press to drill through the stainless steel fitting. The work was done by the Indians working at the local boat yard . they did a great job although had I spoken Hindi communication would have been easier.
I nearly had a major disaster on returning to Katipo as I unloaded from the dinghy a re-filled gas bottle, a bucket with the bolts and fitting just drilled and my back pack with all the ships papers inside. It was one of those unfortunate sequences - the gas bottle fell over , tipped up the bucket nearly spilling the contents into the sea , and as a made a grab for the bucket I dropped my back pack overboard. I just managed to save the pack before it sank and fortunately all was well.
Dave and I sailed out to Malolo Lailai island today into a brisk SW wind and as I intend to just potter about locally this week I will send out another update early next week when Ted and I have had a chance to review the weather patterns for our voyage southwards.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Denerau

We have had a busy day starting fairly early. We are anchored outside the Denerau inner harbour near the entrance channel just off the mangrove lined shore. The water is about 5 metres deep and the holding seems ok. It takes us about 15 minutes to motor into the harbour with our small dinghy with its 2 HP outboard. It is an easy dinghy to row too which we do at times or if the engine will not go! The dinghy also has an elegant shape. Oars are a rarity within the cruising community as 95 % of boats have inflatables as tenders and fairly large outboards. Inflatables are not easily rowed!
Anyway we caught the express coach in Nadi to Lautoka for the equivalent of about $2.70 NZ for a 40 minute comfortable ride. The only concern was the driver using one hand at times while chatting on his cell phone.
The immigration department in Lautoka soon had the paperwork sorted to take Denise off the crew list and to supply a letter for crewman Ted to authorise his arrival on a one way airline ticket later this month.
After a good lunch we spent about an hour in the large fruit, vegetable and fish market with the usual huge variety and bright colours. Added to all this is the smell of curry powders and spices on the Indian stalls.
Then back to Denerau to sit at a bar on the wharf as the boats come and go and the sun goes down. Not a bad day.
Since we will be pottering about locally until Denise goes on Wednesday and I have a few minor jobs to do about the boat later in the week I willl send out another blog in about a weeks time.
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Denerau

This evening we are anchored off Denerau having sailed over this morning from Musket Cove. Since the last blog a few days ago Denise and I have mostly been at Solevu Bay , Liku liku or Musket Cove where we were lucky to secure a vacant mooring. Time has gone quickly and Denise flies home next Wednesday. Last Tuesday we had arranged to sail over to Denerau to meet Lynn and Grant from Whitford for dinner but the weather was pretty grim that morning so we came over on the ferry for lunch instead which was very pleasant.
The next day it rained and was quite cool so we stayed on board and did a supplies stock take with a view to having a big shopping expedition to Nadi to stock up for the return voyage. The wet weather gave me a chance to test the new rain water collection system I had organised on the centre pod roof. I am pleased to report we quickly had 20 litres in the collecting container.
It is surprising who you meet up here . A couple anchored nearby hailed us , they had recognised Katipo as they walk past our house at Shelly park on the public walkway quite often, and today a fellow boat club member who this season has been sailing his catamaran to Tonga and Fiji visiting many of the same places we have visited.
Tomorrow we are of to Lautoka to sort out the paperwork for crew changes , ready for when Ted flies in later this month to crew on the NZ bound voyage.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Photos that you can now view...

Slight set up oversight with the photos. You should be able to see them now if you go here.

Liku Liku

We are still at Liku Liku . Another hot day. I spent part of the morning swimming under Katipo scraping off the early weed growth and the occasional barnacle from below the waterline . Not much wind and now and again a yacht motors past to one of the other small islands locally, or a helicopter or small float plane goes by taking holiday makers to some of the more exxotic locations and resorts.
We stocked up on plenty of fruit in Nadi and are feasting on mangoes, pineapples and bananas, although the bananas tend to ripen quickly then go off!
I will send the next blog after the weekend as we are just pottering about the local anchorages at the moment.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Photos

Hi All

Tim and Joce managed to smuggle a few photos off Katipo and back into Auckland. These are up on the photos page here.

Shay

Brief update

Yesterday we were well sheltered from the increasing SE wind but not in the night when the wind backed to the East causing a rolling unpleasant swell to come in through the reef pass. So we have decided to move on round Malolo to Liku liku bay again. It is pleasant here, the water is clear and it is generally well sheltered.
So it was a short slow sail close along the coast, but very relaxing.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

to Malolo lailai

Coordinates: 17 45.567S 177 12.025 E
We were up early this morning and left Denerau harbour with a fresh beam wind and were at anchor in Solevu Bay on the NE side of Malolo lailai island by 9.45 am
The last few days in Denerau have been good fun, and we had some beers yesterday with the owner of a Wharram Tiki 46 catamaran called Grazia which he had built and sailed from South Africa.
We hope it was not too much of a shock for Tim and Joce arriving home in cold wet NZ.
We restocked Katipo with fruit and vegetables yesterday in Nadi and I even went to the barbers and had an exceptionally short haircut ( but not the beard of course , despite calls for this from the background from Denise )
We can look from the deck of Katipo across an isthmus to Musket cove on the western side where the harbour bristles with masts , all the boats being jammed close together. On the other hand we have this bay to ourselves !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Denerau

Today Tim and Joce left Katipo to fly back to Auckland, it seems suddenly quiet on board. We had a lot of fun and laughs, not to mention fierce competition on the Scrabble board over a few drinks in the evenings sometimes !
So today more catching up with chores and minor maintenance. We will post another blog on Tuesday when we start sailing again.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Denerau

We have had an excellent day . We left Musket Cove fairly early as soon as we could clearly see the coral reefs ( we heard that 15 boats this year have hit coral reefs around the Musket Cove area !) and with a light wind start we were able to set the furling reacher which is a large red light weather foresail which gave a comfortable 7 knots at times and we were soon over to Denerau and onto our booked mooring. Tim was pleased as he had not seen the reacher in use and he took the helm. Most of the time he has been on board during this trip we have had no wind or head winds !
Tim and Joce fly back to Auckland tomorrow, it has been great to have them on board for the last couple of weeks.
Denise and I will be busy stocking up with water , diesel and food for the next couple of weeks. Denise has been busy arranging our voting papers via the internet for the NZ election !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Musket Cove

Coordinates: 17 46.245 S 177 11.39E

5.10 pm just arrived back at Katipo. Sorry we did not send out a message yesterday, we had motor sailed ( ominous noise has gone now ! ) down the west coast of Malolo Island to Musket Cove and were ashore all afternoon and evening. This is one of the main centres for cruising sailors in Fiji and is a pleasant spot with anchoring space or moorings available. It is adjacent to some main resorts around the this side of Malolo. We all had a great meal together ashore last night at Lomani Resort. Today Tim and Joce had some diving instruction and this afternoon went diving at one of the off lying reefs. They had a great time.
We are moored two boats away from another larger NZ Wharram catamaran called Coromandel, which is now based in Fiji most of the time. Don the owner is an old friend so it was good to catch up and hear some of his sailing yarns!

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Back to Liku Liku bay Malolo Island and the ominous knocking noise

A pleasant sail to windward back to Malolo Island . At one point the wind left us becalmed and we started the engine.
The noise and vibration from the drive shaft, which had been a concern for a while, seemed worse and we crept along really slowly winding our way around the reefs.
After we had anchored , swam and had lunch Tim and I made a thorough investigation under the centre deck where the drive shaft is suspended while we sail. The shaft is fixed at one end to a car universal joint so that it can be lowered down when we wish to motor. By lying on our backs in the dinghy we can slide underneath to check things. The only snag is when speed boats zoom by and the wash can raise the dinghy suddenly doing one a mischief.
To my relief I found two marginally loose bolts which we tightened and hopefully will solve the problem. Its tough cruising, always something to fix!

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Vanuya Island

Coordinates: 17 35.407 S 177 03.68E

all is well . We left Navadra this morning starting to work our was south as Tim and Joce fly to NZ at the end of the week.
As seems often the case there was a steadily building SE to SSE wind todays - just what we did not want as we were sailing to windward . As we approached Vanuya it was gusting 30 knots but we found a fairly sheltered bay on the NW side where we are now anchored. We caught a fair sized Trevally fish on out trolling line about two hours ago.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Brief update

All well. We liked Navadra so much we decided to stay another day, and have been busy swimming, snorkeling and exploring the island. There are wild goats here. Also repaired a small crack in the bottom of our fibreglass dinghy , the epoxy sets real quickly in the heat here !
Last night it rained heavily , in fact the first time since we have been in Fiji, and with the rain came winds peaking at 30 knots and swinging round meaning we were then on a lee shore. It always seems to happen on black nights and that is when you hope your anchor holds well !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

brief update

all is well
still at Navadra swimming and snorkeling. Fresh SE wind today

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

brief update

Coordinates: 17 27.449 S 177 02.762 E
a good sail to windward in 15 to 20 knots to Navadra Island where we are now anchored . We have just come back from the shore on this uninhabited tropical island with beautiful sandy beaches. There is good snorkeling to be had over the coral - a great spot.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Vunuya Island Village

Coordinates:17 35.84S 177 04.11E

All is well . We left Malolo Island at 9 am under motor expecting the wind to come in as forecast but unfortunately it did not !
We motored under a hot sun for ages ( which I do not enjoy ) until we reached Vunuya Island and anchored off the village in 10 metres.
Locals were busy fishing , smoke rose from the cooking fires, children played on the beach and it all looked pretty tranquil.
Tim and I rowed in to visit the chief and ask his permission to anchor in their bay. We were met by one of the elders named Suli who was most hospitable , and explained that the chief had died and as yet a new one had not been appointed.
He took us on tour of the village and was particularly proud of the large number of houses now having solar panels for lights, TV and at the school now a number of computers. He invited us for milky fijian tea at his house.
We gave him the Yaqona we had brought for the chief. These are dried roots which are ground to make the kava drink. We also had brought in a football for the children. It was a most interesting visit particularly as he spoke perfect English ( like many Fijians ) as he had worked in some of the resorts and had learned English at school when young. English is still taught in all schools here.
Don
Ps I made a mistakes over the last two days when writing the coordinates in the blog. Sorry if it caused confusion.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Brief update

Having a relaxing day still at Liku Liku Bay . I have tended to a few chores like greasing the sheet winches - there is always something that needs checking, it is hard work this cruising life! Light rain for a while but generally ok. Ginger banana fritters for lunch , the usual problem all the bananas become ripe at once ! All the crew are currently off having a roam about on shore - must keep cabin fever at bay !
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

departed Denerau

Coordinates: 17 19.662 S 178 40.94 E

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught: none but only fished a short time

At lunch time today after an easy sail with very light winds ( down to 2 knots at times) we managed to nearly sail all the way to Liku Liku bay on the North west corner of Malolo Island. We challenged ourselves not to motor and nearly made it ! We collected son Tim and his fiancee Joce from Nadi Airport 2 days ago and we had a good time catching up on all their news. Yesterday we all rushed around stocking up mainly on fruit and vegetables in Nadi market.
Denerau proved a good stop over and all the usual chores like topping up with diesel, water and washing were done.
We even watched the All Black game last weekend at Cardo's Cafe.
Denerau is a busy little port and yachts are coming and going along with many ferry and tourist excursion boats. Some massive super yachts were in port too.
What a contrast to be at anchor at Malolo Island. We are off the beach of the exclusive Liku Liku Lagoon resort .. reported to be amongst the twenty best escapes from the busy world. We are here not because of the resort but it was just a convenient place to shelter from the prevailng wind - however,of course, we have the same fantastic views and crystal clear water for free.
We may stay in this area for a couple of days before moving on. It is good to have the extra crew , and Tim is enjoying being busy adjusting sails and getting the best from katipo.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

arrive Lautoka

Coordinates: 17 35.56S 177 34.09 E
Crew health: excellent

We sailed off the anchor from Vatia Wharf at 8 am with a light 5 knot breeze, but like yesterday the wind rose as the day heated up and it was soon blowing 25 knots from the ENE.
We have had another great day with blue skies and bright sun as we cruised along the reef margins and past low mangrove belts at the shore's edge, with a backdrop of dry hill sides often with burned off areas. Herons occasionally flew over head. This part of Fiji seems relatively uninhabited although we saw a few small boats with Fijians fishing along the reef margins.
We sailed into the bay off Lautoka and anchored in the lee of Bekana Island just after lunch time. It is hot and humid and the temperature in the cabin as I write is 29 degrees C.
Tomorrow we will sail the short distance of about ten miles to Denerau Harbour. This is a busy place with moorings and a small marina, with ferries coming and going out to the resort Islands. There are good facilities and supplies here although a short bus ride into the small town of Nadi is interesting and there are many bargains to be had also a great fruit and vegetable market.
Our son Tim and his fiance Joce fly into Nadi from NZ in three days time to come sailing with us for a couple of weeks .
I will write the next blog after the weekend when we start sailing with them hopefully to the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Lazy day Arrive at Vatia Wharf

Coordinates:17 24.37S 177 45.18 E

A lazy, easy day today . Left Malake island at 9.30 am and with a wind aft of the beam of up to 27 knots and with minimal sail up ambled along admiring the fairly dry scenery on the nearby shore to port while keeping a close eye on the reefs both to starboard and port. While we glided downwind we felt sorry for the three other boats we passed going in the opposite direction, all labouring to windward under noisy engine power only. In fact it seems many cruisers seem to motor more than sail !
We sailed past Vatia Wharf and dropped anchor under sail in 10 metres in the lee of the nearby land at 2.30pm
Incidently the Mahi mahi for dinner last night was delicious . It must be one of the best fish to eat. Snapper is not even close !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Reached Viti Levu

Coordinates: 17 19.462 178 87.788 E
Crew health: Great

Fish caught: one Mahimahi

We have just anchored off Malake Island on the north side of Viti Levu
We had a pleasant sail from Cocoanut Point today , steady SE wind and quite a fast sail after an early start. The last part of our sail was in through the reef on the north of Viti Levu. Some of the markers on the reefs were missing , they are often damaged by cyclones or just rust and decay .
I used my new "guaranted" lure, purchased in Savu savu, today and caught a mahi mahi , not too large to keep to eat . If it had been a large one I would have set it free.
Tomorrow we will travel further along this 'inland 'passage between the shore and and the off lying reef towards Lautoka.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

There is a first time for everything !

Coordinates:16 59.64 S 178 40.94 E
Crew health: great

At anchor at Cocoanut Point near Nabouwalu village
We were up and away from Savusavu at 6.30 this morning to sail all day in light winds . We dropped anchor at 4.45 pm
Nasonisoni Passage was the only coral pass today , quite long but reasonably wide, so not bad.

We had been in Savusavu Fiji for 6 days and had a great time, met some interesting new people amongst the cruising folk, and a couple we had last seen in Samoa three years ago. We bought a fishing lure from Curly Carswell a local character who lives on his boat here - he guaranteed success!
We stocked up on fresh fruit and vegetables which are very good and also very cheap and had some tasty Indian meals out. We found two excellent bakeries and rediscovered coconut scrolls.
We met a friend from the Bay of Islands NZ who was moored further up the harbour. We had no idea he was in Fiji so that was a pleasant surprise. Wayne used to own a 38 foot Wharram catamaran but currently has an elegant 37 foot keeler.
The winds have been unusually strong of late for this time of year and many boats had been waiting since before we arrived here to move on. It seems like there will be lighter winds now for a while.
Last evening Denise had a bit of a surprise when she went into the marine toilet section of the boat . There, lazily swimming around in the water in the toilet bowl, was a moderate sized fish. It must have come up the sea water inlet pipe when the toilet had last been flushed. We gave the fish a gentle flush out into the sea again having wished it luck. As I said above there is a first time for everything - I have never seen that happen before !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Anchored in Savusavu, Fiji

Coordinates: 16 46.65 S 179 19.731 E
Bearing: Anchored
Boat Speed: Anchored
Wind Direction: South East
Wind Strength: 20-33 knots
Sea state: Quite rough

Crew health: Excellent

Fish caught: Sea too rough to fish!

Other points of interest:

We had a great sail through the Lau group last evening into the Koro Sea, the latter part in darkness, with a following, brisk 25 knot wind but flattish seas. It was an exceptional night, clear and starry. The wind was unusually consistent, 20 - 25 knots from the south east, we did not even need to adjust the self steering once. The poled out staysail alone was enough for us to maintain a speed over 6 knots for hour after hour.

This morning the wind increased and was often over 30 knots, there were steep breaking seas bearing us towards a lee shore, the problem being we had only one chance to find the pass into Savusavu Bay, otherwise we would have been scuppered. I pad to the rescue, we swooped through the pass directly on target under only a triple reefed mainsail. We are now comfortably anchored in the delightful harbour of Savusavu where we were immediately assisted to our mooring by the same Fijian guy who had befriended us 3 years ago. He even remembered which mooring we had been on last visit and re allocated us to the same one and then organised all the customs, immigration formalities for us! we have hosted officials from health, biosecurity, customs and immigration and they have all been amazingly jolly and welcoming.

We are now relaxing, feasting on a bowl of taro chips purchased in Tonga and a well earned beer! We look forward to a good nights sleep after a challenging and boisterous 78 hour passage! We will update further news just before we leave Savusavu in about 5 or 6 days.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

fijian seas

Coordinates:17 30.6 s 178 52.4
Bearing:261 T
Boat Speed: 7.5 kn
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength: varies 18 to 30 at times
Sea state: moderate

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught: too busy navigating to fish

Other points of interest:
another great sunny day once the morning cloud had cleared , fairly strong wind but steady , have a reef in mainsail so as not to worry with gusts
We have just passed between Katafage Island and Malevuvu reef ( which was lurking somewhere although we could not see it ) and into the Nanuabalavu passage , onwards to the south of Mago island next . It is exciting to be in new territory although great care must be taken with navigating as many mariners have ended up on reefs coming through the Lau group of islands . particularly in the days of navigating with sextants and relying on good sun sights.
The new navionics chart app on our Ipad is a pleasure to use especially compared with our old Navman chart plotter, which although still working is not so easy and clear to use. Amazing how quickly tmes have changed , twenty years ago when we set off for Tonga we had a large and expensive hand held GPS and just paper charts.
We are not sure when we will be nearing Savusavu , it depends how the winds hold in the next 24 hours or so .

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

anchor problems

Coordinates:17 53.9 s 176 53.6 w
Bearing:284 T
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength:18 to 25
Sea state: fairly short steep seas

Crew health:fine

When we arrived in Vava u it was the weekend and customs are not keen to turn out so we anchored for two day in Port Maurelle. All was fine until we came to leave only to find our anchor chain caught very soundly round some thing on the bottom . It was deep and beyond a depth that I could dive to. This is the first time it has happened in 26 years sailing Katipo so I i have been lucky in the past. It took an hour motoring this way and that and in circles trying to break it free and struggling with the manual anchor winch ( must buy an electric one for the next trip!)
We had an enjoyable time in Neiafu and decided that instead of rushing around a few of the great anchorages on the outer islands , some of which we saw last time in 1994, we would relax and stay on our mooring and explore more thoroughly on land nearby. We made a trip to the botanical gardens which was most interesting, socialised with some of the other yachties and had a few meals ashore, as well as fill in all the paper work for arrival in Fiji which has to be emailed ahead .
Today is another clear day , blue sea and sky wih a steady wind . last night the wind built to over 30 knots which we did not expect but since it was a following wind we reefed down some and kept going ok.
So next we have to thread through the Lau group of islands on our way to Savusavu

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

bound for Fiji from Tonga

Coordinates:18 29.62s 174 35.72 w
Bearing:285 t
Boat Speed: 6 to 7.5 kn
Wind Direction:se
Wind Strength: 17 to 27
Sea state:short steep sea

Crew health:fine

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:
we left Neiafu after a good time there - i will write more later
making good progress , over 8 knots over the ground at times
uncomfortable beam to quarter sea but wind forecast to swing a little more to the east later which will be better

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Vava'a

Here we are again in Vavau 20 years after our first sailing adventure on Katipo along with Shay, Lee and Tim in August 1994. It really is a fantastic place to sail, many scattered islands and anchorages, lush vegetation and deep waters with whales in abundance.
Fortunately we had a good steady wind last night and tried to pace our speed so that we would arrive in daylight at dawn , but on the other hand not wanting to waste a good wind lest it fizzled out over night again !
As it turned out we arrived about an hour before dawn and watched the sun rise behind the islands. We were delighted to see about ten humpback whales as we motored sailed in from the open sea, some surfacing just yards from the boat and then sounding again with a flourish in the air from their tails above the water. At other times they would blow and send a jet of spray into the morning air.
We have anchored in Port Maurelle along we about six other boats some of which are Charter boats.
We have not had much sleep in the last 48 hours but will sleep well tonight . We will celebrate our arrival with some Tongan Beer called Tafi which we bought in Nuku Alofa, although on reading the label it is brewed by Independent Breweries in Papakura !
We will be here a few days and will not send a blog each day , however we will send one longer one before we sail bound for Savusavu in Fiji.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

past Kao

Coordinates: 19 36.329 S 174 42.1 W
Bearing: 36 T
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength: 5 to 10 knots
Sea state: mild

Crew health: great
Other points of interest:
last night was a long one! we made fair progress during the day yesterday but in the evening the wind fluctuated then fizzled out . Becalmed on a smooth silky sea under the moonlight , the sails slatted so we took them down. about 4 am there were stirrings and eventually the wind built but a light wind day. We set the giant red reacher sail and hand steered all afternoon past the gloomy volcanic island of Kao its peak and crater 1046 metres high shrouded in mist and cloud. hopefully the wind will not die this evening , but light winds do make a restful change after the last few days before arriving in Tonga!

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Bound for Vava'u

Coordinates: 20 33.6 175 07.018
Bearing: 17 T
Wind Direction: Easterly
Wind Strength: 8 to 14 kn
Sea state: fairly placid

Crew health: marvellous

Fish caught: nil

Other points of interest:
Yesterday we checked out of Nuka Alofa , all the officials are very pleasant , but one must be patient and adjust to Island time. We raised the two anchors and cast off the shore lines and motor sailed out to Atata Island about 10 miles away . It was good to be away from the bustle, fumes and noise which are present in most ports. We enjoyed our stay in Nuku Alofa , it is a mix of the old and the new. The market in town probably has not changed for years but has heaps of tomatoes, carrots , cucumber , taro , papaya, bananas and much more. We have found that Kumara last well on board so we bought a huge bag for $6 nz which should last ages . Everything needs to be checked and cleaned or washed as we don't want ants , and other bugs setting up camp on board!
In town there is the occasional trendy cafe and phone companies busy selling mobile phones etc.
Today we sailed out through the reef and set our course for Vavau. A perfect day especially for Denise to find her sea legs. Sunshine, clear sky, deep blue sea and a light breeze . We set the self steering and have hardly had to adjust the sails all day.
The rebuilt strut for the drive shaft seems to be doing a great job, it is a relief to have it sorted.
More news tomorrow , I think it will be unlikely we will arrive in time before dark tomorrow as the winds are very light currently, but it cedrtainly makes for relaxing sailing.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Nuku Alofa

Today has been great. After another long sleep which seems strange after I have been on watch sailing between midnight and 3 am for 12 days, we set off to do some chores. Port Authority explained port fees for Katipo size boat were $24 a month which was very fair. Then Atm machine, followed by a visit to immigration to fill out more forms. Morning coffee and muffins followed and the a visit to the internet cafe where Ted could print out his ticket home on Saturday.
Then by a stroke of good luck met a Tongan selling bone carvings who was most helpful. He took us to a metal work store in his truck and I was able to buy some angle iron to further reinforce the shaft down hold rod which suffered a severe bending in the Bay ofIslands. I just need to drill a few holes , dig out some longer bolts from my Bosun's locker, and apply a lashing or two.
Our new Tongan friend has taken our pile a smelly , soggy , salty washing, accumulated over the last two weeks for his daughter to wash for a fair fee. He is also going to act as taxi driver to the airport on Saturday when Ted leaves and Denise arrives. We felt it much better to give him the fee than pay some one else.
Tonight Ted and I will treat ourselves to a meal ashore in one of the small local restaurants
I will not send a blog for a few days until we are about to set sail again bound for Vavau.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Nuku Alofa

Coordinates: 21 08.2 S 175 11.00 W
Bearing:
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction:
Wind Strength: 10 kn
Sea state: totally calm

Crew health: excellent , in great spirits

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:
last night was spent at anchor for the first time in 12 days off the tropical outlying island of Atata. The previous 24 hours had been quite rigorous with little sleep in 24 hours. fairly high winds , in not ideal direction and closing land. The engine shaft was a concern since one of the bearings had sustained more damage than we at first thought off the Bay of Islands and the engine was going to be essential in what proved to be head winds of 26knots + when coming through the reefs.
We managed to make a temporary one from a piece of 12mm thick conveyor belt rubber I had on board and by lowering the stern safety net it was possible, while hove to in 30 knots, to lay in the netting in my wet suit and to fit it into place and hold it together with some twisted stainless wire. It held together well and is still in place . We have contacted Auckland base , thanks Shay and Peter for helping to organise a new bearing for later.
It was more difficult in the cloudy windy weather to make out all the reefs , so I climbed half way up the mast about three times to make sure we were in the correct place.
Last night after a big meal we slept for 12 hours and this morning after going up the mast to sort out a tangled line and change a suspect shackle which I noticed while up there, we set off to motor sail the last 10 miles into the harbour.
The Port Captain directed us via VHF radio to berth at the fuel dock. The customs , health , immigration etc all came to visit , relaxed,jovial , friendly men and ladies, and we feasted them on snacks while all the forms were filled in and payments made. We have now motored over to the other side of the small harbour and anchored stern to. Some helpful Kiwis on the next boat took our lines ashore.
Tomorrow we have to visit the port Captain , get some fresh supplies, organise washing and many other chores. It has been quite an adventure over the last two weeks and hopefully now some leisurely island cruising.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

safe and sound

Coordinates: 21 02.7 175 15.8 W
Bearing: at anchor near Atata Island
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction:
Wind Strength:
Sea state:

Crew health: good but weary

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:
The wind was reasonable for sailing nearer Tonga last night and by the middle of the night we saw some lights ashore . This morning at dawn we carried on to go through one of the passes in the coral on the western side . Wind was a little stronger than we would have liked but all went well.
We have anchored to sort things out . tidy up and most important check the engine and drive shaft ready to go into the main harbour for customs clearance etc tomorrow. It has been a great voyage , but it is good top be anchored here. I was going to leap in and have a swim and a soak in the sea but then thought it would be such a nuisance to comeall this way and then be eaten by a shark!! - So had a sluicing down on deck !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

making headway

Coordinates:21 47.9S 175 16.6 W
Bearing: 10 T
Boat Speed:3.5
Wind Direction east
Wind Strength: 25 to 38+ constant
Sea state: quite large seas have built up

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:
after being hove to we are pressing on north to be nearer the pass into Tongatapu and Nuka alofa when the wind moderates. Only have tiny storm jib up as no point getting there to soon or in darkness . When we go in depends totally on the wind which is forecast to moderate in the next 24 to 48 hours . Katipo riding the big beam seas well and sail seems well balanced, but are doing some hand steering at present

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

boisterous windy weather

Coordinates:22 02.6 175 02.3
Bearing: heaved to
Boat Speed: minimal
Wind Direction: east
Wind Strength: mainly 25 to 35 Kn gusting 40 occasionally
Sea state: steep seas , breaking crests some probably 5 metres

Crew health: excellent a good relaxing day

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:
We had a choice last night press on in high winds , big beam seas , breaking at times and shaking everything off shelves or hove to again and bob like a resting sea gull on the surface with the bow slicing into the approaching seas held there by the triple reefed main. We chose to do this rather than rush to Tonga and stress the boat and gear and tire our selves too. In fact we are enjoying the relaxing so much that we decided to stay here today too.
The squash zone between the large high and the south east trades is forecast to moderate over the next couple of days as the high moves east which should lower wind speeds and sea state giving us an easier sail the last 60 miles. It is to a large extent what sailing philosophy
one chooses, race on at all cost or cruise along!!
Ted cooked a great rice rissoto for lunch and we caught up on a few boat jobs and minor repairs .

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

windy weather

Coordinates:22 30.2 174 51.0
Bearing: approx 7 T
Boat Speed: 4.8 kn
Wind Direction: from 110 T
Wind Strength: currently 36 knot squall , but today and yesterday as forecast 25 to 30 but up to 40 in squalls
Sea state: big steep seas some breaking

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught:

Other points of interest: we had hoped for less wind as we approach land , we have no intention of going in through the coral reefs into Nuku alofa in high winds especially as Katipo is not a motor cruising catamaran with a big engine.
what it means is that we are going fairly slowly under storm jib only until the winds moderate
yesterday we wanted to achieve some easting and northing which we did into the easterly winds
last night we hove to under triple reefed main and Katipo behaved beautifully , bow just off the wind and fore reaching slowly while bobbing like a duck with just a triple reefed main up . In fact we made 7 miles to the east and some north too to our surprise
we will be receiving the next weather forecast shortly

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Laptop down

Katipo within 36 hours of Tongatapu. Located at 23 27.4S 175 08.73W. Laptop batteries were flat so no update today.

All is well on the boat based on a text message update via sat phone. The winds are quite strong from the SSE (on the beam). The prediction says 20 rising to 25kn tonight, but tending SE which will mean a broad reach into Tonga for the evening of the 1st of morning of the 2nd.

Shay

great day

Coordinates:24 56.5 176 01 .3
Bearing:15 T
Boat Speed: 5
Wind Direction: ESE fluctuates from NE to ESE
Wind Strength: 12 but everything from 8 to 33 knots today when squalls come through
Sea state: moderate

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught: not fishing today

Other points of interest:
late afternoon is beautiful sailing with wind forard of beam but most of day and last night frequent sail changes due to squalls etc and short vicious seas with spray flying , so it is good to have a more restful time now

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

getting warmer

Coordinates: 26 24.9 S 176 51.1 W
Bearing: 24 T
Boat Speed: 6.4 kn
Wind Direction: varies a little was SE the E then ENE 9 to 23
Crew health: fine

Fish caught: one small tuna

Other points of interest:
another bright sunny day , going well but we will try and sail a little further to the East before heading directly to Tonga lest stronger easterly winds set in later , We received Bob McDavits weathergram by email via satellite phone , it sounds like the weather back in NZ is not too good

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Update

Coordinates:28 81.6 S 178 00.3 W
Bearing: 50 T
Boat Speed: 5.6 kn
Wind Direction: SE
Wind Strength: 8 to 15 Kn
Sea state: mild

Crew health: great

Fish caught: still trying

Other points of interest:
a good steady day , just passing north of Raoul island 71 miles to the South of our position. Wind analysis from Predict Wind web site via Shay in Auckland has been very helpful
Sunny bright weather . Tested engine today which had not been run since we left Opua , started first time .
We certainly feel fortunate to have favourable winds so far.
As usual some fantastic star filled skies at night .

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

nearly shorts and tee shirt weather !

Coordinates: at 16.00 hours 29 10.9 S 179 58 E
Bearing: approx 65 T
Boat Speed: 6.5 Kn
Wind Direction: light mainly southerly
Wind Strength: 3 knots to 15
Sea state: fairly smooth

Crew health: excellent

Fish caught: to busy sailing to fish today

Other points of interest:

After a night of fairly light winds this morning looked too calm, we feared the large high weather high system had caught up with us . However things improved and we have had winds up to 15 knots at times often much less,
We set the large light weather furling reacher which has been great , we did not even have to hand steer as the sail responded well to the wind vane self steering system. Blue sky , sun and light winds meant it was a good day to tidy up the boat
We stil see albatross this far north, and found a fair sized flying squid lying on deck this morning !

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

a little warmer , tropics getting closer

Coordinates: 30 10.9 S 178 26.3 E
Bearing: 60 T
Boat Speed: 5.5 kn
Wind Direction: ssw
Wind Strength: fluctuates a lot 18 to 40 max
Sea state:at the moment 2 m but there have been some giant seas with breaking crests at times , which Katipo takes on the Starboard quarter fine

Crew health: marvellous.

Fish caught: not yet

Other points of interest: found our first flying fish on deck today , must have been escaping a predator and crash landed onto Katipo, only 3 cm long however.
have the storm jib up which gives a steady speed set on outer forestay. This means no excitement like the record speed under one small staysail
the other day which resulted in the bent pole end !! It was pretty amazing for such a heavily loaded boat with a small rig.
Cooking a large hot meal midday between watches which works well

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Not warm yet!!

Coordinates:31 21.9 S 176 36.6 E
Bearing: 50 T
Boat Speed:6.2
Wind Direction: SW
Wind Strength: 17
Sea state: 2 m

Crew health: great

Fish caught:nil

Other points of interest:

another sunny day and another dark moonless night last night . A few squalls came through which is why, particularly at night, we only have a modest amount of sail up. Often the towering black masses of cloud bearing down from up wind dont deliver much , maybe 25 to 30 knots for a short while .
There was another just after dawn and Ted had gone below at the change of watch to sleep , a relatively benign cloud mass loomed into view but this one packed quite a punch and the wind reached 30 knots and kept on rising . At the time we were running before the wind and had not organised any extra sail on which was good . The wind must have been somewhere between 45 and 50 knots it kept on coming. It is one of those situations when you appreciate two long lean hulls which makes the boat very directionally stable, compared with say a monohull with a deep fin keel and no skeg. As I moved quickly forward to lower the sail, spray flying everywhere, there was an ominous bang as the fitting on the outer end of the pole broke Ted was on deck now and we pulled down and secured the flogging sail. No serious damage as a block has been lashed on and it is now working fine. A keeler unless well handled could so easily broach and be laid on its side in those conditons.
The wind is still holding well in the SW so progess is pleasing
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

A good wind

Coordinates: 32 52.4 S 174 48 E at 16.00 hours
Bearing:25 T
Boat Speed:6.5 Kn
Wind Direction: SW
Wind Strength: fluctuates 18 to 30 mainly about 23
Sea state: increasing 2 to 3 metres

Crew health: great

Fish caught: nil

Other points of interest:

we have the wind behind us and are making good progress. Saw several albatross today , skimming and gliding over the waves , seldom needing to flap their wings , Sunny weather , no rain . Saw a few boats nearer the coast last night but none out here. We usually spotted them on our new AIS instrument before seeing lights. This instrument is fantastic enabling us to identify ships by a transmitted wireless signal , know their course and speed and if on their current course there will be any risk of collision. They can also identify us in the same way.
We set off from Cape Brett going NE then due to weather advice turned north at 6 pm yesterday to try and catch better winds, then the last 3 hours 25 degrees T awaiting next report

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Update

Coordinates:35 00 .800 s 174 20 . 124 E
Bearing: 48 T
Boat Speed: 5.5 kn
Wind Direction: SW
Wind Strength:12 fluctates but fairly light
Sea state: 0.5 metre
Crew health : first class

Fish caught: no time to fish

Other points of interest:

After a horrible arrival at cape brett 2 days ago , today has been perfect
Up at dawn to scamper up the mast to the top to retrieve the lost halyard , the snap shackle was ok , it must have been a fluke that it was knocked open when flogging as the wind kept changing in the squall the other night.
motor now all fine , so left early to motor up to Opua to clear customs at 11.30 am . buy some more diesel , fill a water container and departed by 12.30 pm.
What a glorious day , sun out , blue sky and we were soon running before the wind with poled out head sails.
The Bill Belcher designed wind vane was connected and took over the steering , correcting the course by small degrees as it wafts from side to side. Good old Bill , he used to live on Waiheke island , he has passed on now. The $ 100 I spent on materials to build it was a marvellous investment as it has steered Katipo for over 10,000 miles now !
We spent the afternoon tidying up the decks and stowing things not required for a while and have just eaten a hearty meal.
more news about the joys of sailing the ocean tomorrow
Don

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Bit of a problem !!

Coordinates: anchored on Bay of Islands this evening
Bearing:
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction:
Wind Strength:
Sea state:

Crew health:


Yesterday we had a great sail up the coast with strong winds , mainly aft of the beam. However later that night was not so good . Because of our good speed we arrived at 11.30 pm at Cape Brett , these craggy rocks mark the entrance to the Bay of Islands. The forecast was of lighter winds overnight , in fact we had to turn on our engine to motor sail round the point intending to anchor overnight further up the bay. About half an hour later the wind began to build and the seas with a wind against tide situation. became steep. It was an inky black night and we were relying on the chart plotter. A squall came came through with winds at times gusting 40 to 50 knots. Suddenly the halyard ( for non sailors a line that is used to pull the sail up the mast ) to the foresail gave way and the sail half sliding down the forestay flogged horribly in the high wind. While I was sorting out that situation and Ted helmed the boat there was a nasty crunch and the engine stopped. Peering into the water with torch light over the stern of the cockpit we were dismayed to see that the end of a sail sheet rope had washed overboard
and now formed a huge tangled mess round the propellor and drive shaft, but worse, the stainless steel rod which normally holds the drive shaft down in position was bent out of recognition, and probably the drive shaft would be bent too.

We turned and sailed off down wind back out to sea, we hove to with just a third reef in the main and it was now 2.30 am and extremely cold. We took turns to keep a watch in case the wind changed and took us onto rocks, or we be taken by currents. Also of course to watch for other boats or ships.
We had a discussion of what course of action to take, sail south again to home to sort it out, abandon the voyage, or to sail up the harbour in the morning and try to fix the problem in Opua in the Bay of Islands. We decided on sailing up to Opua.

We were off at dawn in 18 knots of breeze but this failed about an hour later and except for periodic puffs of wind we were becalmed in the middle of the outer bay. The water was too deep to anchor although we did calculate that we actually had 130 metres of warp and chain and another 110 metres of Parachute sea anchor warp giving 240 metres. Ted did not volunteer to wind it all back in however if we tried this while awaiting wind and being safe at night so close to shore.
However the calm enabled us to launch our dinghy from Katipo's deck and inspect the mess just under water at the stern between the hulls.
We dismantled the pieces after removing the tangled rope, and by clamping pieces of the metal to the largest anchor stored on deck we levered and straightened it out. We found that the the drive shaft fortunately was not damaged or bent. At last late afternoon we gleefully motored up the bay to anchor for the night in a delightful spot in the sheltered Onera bay, just over the hill from Russell.
Tomorrow I have to climb to the top of the mast to replace the halyard, and this evening after a meal, check out the weather forecasts again
for the next few days,
Customs clearance can be carried out in Opua.

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Update

Coordinates:
Bearing:
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction:
Wind Strength:
Sea state:

Crew health:

Fish caught:

Other points of interest: brief message ,

fairly windy
just passed Bream Head with 50 knot squall down to 25 knots now SW
all going well, good steady speed 6 to 8.5 knots , over 9 at times .
still hoping to clear customs tomorrow

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

Update

Coordinates:
Bearing:
Boat Speed:
Wind Direction:
Wind Strength:
Sea state:

Crew health: all well

Fish caught:

Other points of interest:

quick test message typed at 3.10 pm just north of motatapu doing 6 to 8 knots in about 20 knots of wind
had to motor for quite a while as no wind or not much SW seems to be kicking in
may stop at north of Whangaparoa or Kawau possibly
will re assess afternoon forecast
I may contact you by mobile phone later this evening

----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com

We're off to Tonga!

Katipo is loaded up, water tanks filled, victuals stowed , and the last minute fresh fruit and vegetables are on board.  Safety gear like flares, satellite phone, liferaft, emergency locator beacon, harnesses, life jackets are all ready.  

The decision when to clear customs and depart for the open ocean requires careful consideration. Ted, who was my crew  on Katipo to Rarotonga and also from Fiji back to Auckland three years ago (2011), is coming on this voyage too.

We have been watchingon  our computers the various weather charts and information daily, some of which give a seven day forecast.Bob McDavit New Zealand's weatherman produces an excellent analysis and forecast once a week with recommendations for ocean sailors.

There was a short window of suitable weather last week but on balance Ted and I, after much discussion, decided since we are in no rush, to wait in the hope of a better forecast. It looks like this is the week and we are planning to depart Shelly Park today on the tide.

We will be checking in daily via email and text with Shay, one of my sons who will act as contact person in New Zealand. Our position will be updated each evening on the map here, and our posts will be on this blog.

 

 You can contact us with short messages by emailing Shay through the Zero Energy House website contact page. He will contact us by text to my satellite phone or forwards email to my satellite phone which are then downloaded onto a laptop computer. I find this modern technology fantastic ! We are not able to receive  long messages or attachments to emails as they are  prohibitively expensive to download on board Katipo via Satellite phone.

More information to come just as soon as we are ready to set sail.