15 05S 147 56W

 

Moved around to the west of the island yesterday morning to where we dived off Leila last year. Had been watching them drift dive in Tiputa Pass amongst turtles, rays and dolphins but the currants were so strong that several divers got into difficulties and neither Graham or I fancied it, hence the move and in afternoon we went snorkelling in the lagoon spent hours just watching the most varied and colourful aquarium show ever.

 

Fresher took off for the north yesterday too, a sad bon voyage. We spent the last evening with them ashore in one of the resort hotels, had a really nice meal, bit pricey though. There is not a great deal of entertainment, bars or eateries except for the hotels but we have taken a few long walks to see the island; it may look like paradise to us but I doubt it does to many of the village locals.

 

Have spoken to quite a few cruisers anchored around Tiputa which has changed our plans a bit. We still will explore a bit more of FP but before heading west will go back to Papeete as it is just about the only place to properly provision the boat for a long trip without needing a huge cheque book and we are very pleased we have a good water maker.

 

Probably stay here a few days, there are only 2 other boats here at mo and then will head to Kakarava and maybe makemo

 

Sarah

cefi AT mail DOT com