From Fiji to Vanuatu

Sea Topaz
Duncan Briggs
Mon 4 Oct 2010 00:28
18.39.715 S  174.17.858 E
 
Finally well and truly on our way. That took some doing. From Musket Cove we went to Denarou Marina on Viti Levu, where we spent one night. We re-fuelled, filled up with water and bought some food. We also had a last meal out. Unfortunately Steve could not make it so we said thank you and goodbye over the phone. Then on to Lautoka where we checked out with officials and stocked up on fresh food at the vegetable market. We went back to Musket Cove for the night. The next morning we got the boat ready for passage and set off before lunch. The wind had increased significantly and on the nose, not good, but we decided to plot on (We should have left the country immediately after checking out!). With the big waves coming under the boat we heard a new, grinding noise in the steering. So, we decided to turn back and check it out. We were back at anchor in good time for Duncan to check both under and in the back of the boat, but could find nothing wrong. After another nice quiet night at anchor we set off again. And here we are, the noise is still there, but the weather and sea are calmer and we know nothing important is about to drop off.
First stop in Vanuatu is Resolution Bay, Tanna.
 
   
 
Float plane taking off over one of the many reefs                    How many lines do you need to sail a boat??