Morning arrival

Simanderal
Michael Hughes and Ger White
Wed 28 Apr 2010 01:22
Well after a super-fast 430 miles sail from Marquesas, averaging nearly 8 knots in steady 15 knot plus winds, last night the wind dies completely and we had to use the engine for the last 50 miles to the Tuamotus--but can't complain--the wind is down for the next few days so those who set off behind us had far less of the favourable winds.
 
We motored slowly overnight, as we didn't want to arrive at the atoll until daylight--or even later bas the passes are only passable at slack water--high or low tide. We arrived at the pass around 0830--standing waves coming out with the ebb, so hung around until low water at 0950 when we were able to enter easily. No problems, past the coral reefs and quickly anchored in the lagoon--beautifully calm, clear blue sea.
 
Been lunching, resting and reading since arrival--going ashore shortly for a look round.
 
All is well--we now have a peaceful few days away from it all.