Blog Entry 21 - 23st October 2008

WE ARE IN FIJI! 

This is the Speedbird lying alongside the ferry ship which services the islands of Samoa.
This is a nice moment during the crossing from Pago to Fiji.
The Westin hotel's lighting of the flame ceremony while we enjoyed a drink on arrival in Fiji.
The crew sipping on Fiji Premium.
The beautiful Musket Cove.

A word from JACK:

Hi folks,

We arrived at Port Denarau early Tuesday Fiji time after losing Sunday crossing the date line.  It was necessary to stand off the coast until we had sufficient light to work our way through the reefs as half the navigation lights shown on the charts and GPS systems were either not lit or missing.

It was great to see Erin on our arrival waving us into our berth, which required Mediterranean style anchor over the bow reversing into the floating marina.  She had arrived two days earlier with some engine filters so as usual had everyone G’d up and the Port Denarius marina staff fully organised.

At Erin’s insistence we hired a fast boat yesterday and cruised various islands which were absolutely amazing so we will clear out of this marina today, Thursday, for a stop over at the beautiful tropical, yes David with excellent restaurants, musket cove.

Of course after clearing Port Denerau it is frowned upon to stop however I believe we may have an urgent medical reason, like chardonnay withdrawal, which will make it necessary to pay a visit.

Muskat cove is a world-renowned must visit destination for all yachties and incidentally is highly recommended by Jerry from our marina. 

We have mixed signals from our weather router ‘Clouds Badham’ so we may swing past New Caledonia to clear into Australia somewhere on the Queensland coast or weather permitting direct to Coffs harbour.  If we pick the wrong route we could get mauled my southerly winds so this aspect will be given much serious consideration.

Another beautiful day in paradise but don’t get upset, someone has to do it, to get the boat home.

Love to all,

Jack.