Very nearly there!
Fleck
Thu 8 May 2008 21:34
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Grand wind just now making it likely that this will
be my last full day at sea. About 120 miles to the anchorage on the west coast
of Fatu Hiva, and if you believe the hype one of the most spectacular anywhere.
The downside, for the eternal pessimist, is that the very high mountains close
to the shore can bring nasty katabatic downdrafts of wind. We shall see. As you
may imagine it feels like the last week of school term here on board. Looking
forward particularly to stretching my legs, always assuming that our faithful
Avon inflatable dinghy can cope with the surf on the beach, and that I can dodge
the enemy fire (sandflies) until I reach the beachhead. Legs are going to
be quite wobbly for a day or so, but there is supposed to be a spectacular
17km walk, and I'm not allowed to stay here very long. Shame there will be
no laundry facilities, shops, restaurants or fresh water, but I'm well supplied
really, and its my own opinion, and the only one that matters until I meet the
Customs and Immigration poeple in Hiva Oa that I don't smell too bad. Only
dissapointment of the last few days has been a complete absence of fresh fish
from the spiesekarte. One last try this afternoon. Wear and tear about the boat
doesn't seem too bad, but I can see a lot of weed along the waterline if I bend
myself right out to look down and then in, if you see what I mean (but it
is still not a good time to fall in).
My thanks as ever to the shore party, especially my
closest family, who have made many sacrifices to make this wonderful trip
possible. Quick arrival blog, if time tomorrow, then weekly updates, approx.,
with more frequent messages on the longer inter-island legs.
Good to learn that Laurie, one of Vicky's
boyfriends (just joking), is joining us in Tonga. Laurie, either you
or the beer will have to travel behind the boat in the inflatable. I am sorry to
have to tell you that I can not trust the dinghy with the beer. Looking forward
to seeing you!!
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