Aussie bound

Pearl of Persia
Andrew Lock
Tue 23 Jul 2013 01:14
Our decision to take refuge in the bay at Malakula Island was a good one.
We woke the next morning to find that it was still drizzling and the skies
were heavy with grey clouds. The wind was still raging even though we were
well protected in the bay. We decided to have a lazy day just reading and
getting on with some chores around the boat. In the afternoon we launched
the dingy and went ashore to visit the village. We took our gifts of Kava
and also some food which I thought they may like. We asked to see the chief
and after visiting with him were given permission to wonder around the
village. He sent a guide with us who took us all the way round proudly
showing us the very well kept traditional village. Everyone was very
friendly and helpful. Photos show the canoes from the local village and
children paddling home from school.
The next morning the winds had eased a little but the rain was still
threatening. We had decided to leave for Australia anyway so the anchor
came up and off we set. It turned out to be one of the best days of sailing
we have had. The wind was a perfect strength and direction, and we flew
across the water at 8-9 knots and managed to cover over 200 nautical miles
in the first 24 hours, a real milestone for sailors.
We are now at the end of our 3rd day and the winds have ease so we have
slowed down. Another 4 days to go.

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