Waya Island

Hello All,
At 0800 yesterday we left the Somo somo village anchorage to head to the most southern Island of the Yasawa chain. We had to go nose into 30 knot winds and 6 foot seas to make it around the corner to head down the eastern side of the Island. It took us hours to go 3 miles. It wasn't much fun but we finally got headed the right direction. I would have gone down the western side which is protected from the wind but the whole area is uncharted and I had way points from another cruising boat for the eastern side. You would have to see a chart to know why I am so careful. The Fiji Islands are littered with shallow spots and reefs. The reefs are easy to see because of the waves breaking but the shallow areas are hard to see with out good light and they could be anywhere. You can only spot them at about a half mile distance so you have to be on your toes at all times. We motored the 27 miles to Waya Island. We had good wind for sailing but it is to hard to stop the boat in case we need to miss a shallow or a reef. We made the trip with no problems and got anchored in the southern bay of the Island. We got here about 1430 so we made good time. We just relaxed after arriving but we will go see the chief this morning. There is suppose to be good hiking trails here and good snorkeling. We will head for the main Island maybe tomorrow. I want to get the boat ready to go south and I am told there are good marine shops and support in Lautoka.
We parted ways with Curious yesterday morning. They are headed north where we were and then they will end up back in Lautoka in a week. We will look forward to seeing them there so we can hang out before departing south.
We have had a great time in the Yasawa Group but I am ready to start thinking about New Zealand. The passage could be fun or it could be rough. Being from Alaska I should be able to wrap my head around that but after being in the tropics for all these months makes it's hard to think about.
That's all for now, I will talk to you soon.

PEACE