Tuamotos
Karacool
Stephen Bassett
Wed 2 May 2012 02:35
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14:32.1S
146:21.5W
WE have arrived at the Tuamotos, on Ahe atoll. It
was a tedious night with dodgy weather and we had to hang around waiting near
the entrance to the pass. So at 6.30am we followed Oyster Moon (thanks, guys for
leading the way) into the pass and then across the lagoon to the village of
Tenukupara. It was a tense time as we could not see into the clear water to
check for coral outcrops (bombers) as the sky was very overcast. Normally
with the sun shining, all the hazards can be seen easily. But today it was like
looking at solid slate.
We are now anchored close to the village in 15
metres of water. After a couple of hours rest, we all went ashore to wander
around the village. There are impressive banks of solar panels everywhere, and
all buildings have huge water collecting tanks fed from outsize guttering on
every available roof. Most buildings are on stilts but with a minor tidal wave
the whole place would disappear. There was a snack bar and we feasted on -
cheeseburger and chips, and a cola!
again everyone speaks french, and as it is Labour
Day, the shop and post office were shut.
Tomorrow will be clean up day and then go ashore to
check out the supplies in the shop. We don't need much except for bread. But it
is always good to see the shop and chat to the locals. Also hope we will see
Camelot and Marita 3 as they are due into Ahe soon.
Now the pearl hunt begins... till
tomorrow.
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