We finally arrived in Savusavu in Fiji yesterday 28th April
after a hard passage. It is very hot and humid and we are struggling to keep
ourselves cool. Sadly we are not able to swim here as we are moored in a river
which does not breed confidence........but could well breed lots of other
things. We did manage to swim when becalmed the day before...........in 1500
metres of water! After all the beating to windward in very strong winds, the
last 24 hours we had to complete under the engine with a short sail thrown in.
We feel less exhausted than we expected which is good.
As in Tonga, we have been boarded by lots of officials: health, immigration,
agriculture and customs. We filled in lots of forms and they took lots of
photographs posing with us(not official) but we are now certified as clean and
free of diseases or pests and able to continue on our way, once we have received
our cruising permit and cleared out of this port. We have to clear in again at
each major place we visit. Keeps everyone employed!
Tomorrow we will explore the island by car and take lots
of photos. Our impression so far is that the people are wonderful, relaxed,
friendly and warm...literally and metaphorically.
