Hi
from Clare, No 7 Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Friday 5th
June 2015
FROM
THE TRIP
I
have included a photo of the swell behind the boat on our trip from
Galapagos to the Marquesas. It is very difficult to actually capture
the hight of a wave on the camera but the fishing line at the back of
the boat gives you some idea. The other photo is to show you how
dirty Eye Candy was by the time we reached the Marquesas. To me its
quite amazing how slime, algae and goose neck barnacles stick to the
boat when we are doing seven knots and the water is rushing past.
Don't look!
A very dirty bottom
A
TROPICAL PARADISE
So
we have been in Huka Hiva for little over a week. This is the largest
of the Marquesas Islands and we are anchored in the beautiful bay off
the main township of Taiohae. As you can see by the photos the
island is very mountainous and is covered with lush tropical
vegetation. The weather in warm and humid and it has rained most days
giving Eye Candy a welcomed wash after so many days at sea.
Taiohae Bay
WE'RE
HAVING A SWELL TIME
The
only problem is that all the boats are rolling as the bay is opened
to the south east and the prevailing swell. We put a stern anchor out
to hold our bow into the swell which is more comfortable for moving
around the boat and sleeping; there's nothing worse than rolling from
one side of the bed to the other:) The good news is that there are
smaller and very well protected bays within five miles and so we can
escape.
The Taiohae Township
A
LITTLE RESPITE
Yesterday
we left the main harbour and came a short distance to Comptroller Bay
where the water is quite calm. Andrew went up the mast this morning
to check lighting etc and is now stretched out in the cockpit having
a well earned snooze. The weather is sunny and quite warm. The water
temperature is 28 degrees but quite murky due to run off. I haven't
been in for a swim as we quite often see a fin pop up near the boat.
We are not sure if the fin belongs to a shark or a large stingray but
its a bit off putting. We will probably stay here until Tuesday when
we have to return to Taiohae to pick up a new battery which we have
ordered from Tahiti.
THE
CRUISERS HOME
I
have included a photo of where the cruisers spend their spare time
tapping away on the computer. The bananas hanging there are
complimentary for the customers, singly that is, not in bunches. The
basis kitchen is where the girls produce the most amazing culinary
treats.
Where we all hang out - free wifi
THE
BEST IS YET TO COME
Since
arriving in the Marquesas we have completed the necessary paperwork
to get a long stay visa for French Polynesia. This paperwork has now
been sent off to Tahiti and we expect to receive the visa in four
weeks or so. While we wait we will sail to the Tuamotu archipelago
where there is crystal clear water, wonderful coral and snorkelling.
As you can imagine we are really looking forward to this experience.
SO
WHAT'S NEXT
Well
as soon as we pick up the battery and some fresh fruit and vege we
will be off to the Tuamotus - Whoo Hoo!
Love
Candy xx
