Berthed Mediterranean style at beautiful Muskat Cove bow at anchor and stern to the dock. We cleared Fiji customs etc. at Port Denarau 2pm with intentions of running an adverse weather window detailed in a report from 'Clouds' (Roger Badham), however after 2 hours cruising it was necessary to go close to Muskat cove to clear the reefs. My well trained nose for food detected the tantalising aroma of pig on spit so throwing caution to the wind we all voted that this would be a great layover for the deteriorating weather conditions and safely negotiated the reefs into Muskat Cove reserving a table for the evening meal.
Its a hard life, had we not stopped our evening meal was to be Barbecued steak with all the trimmings followed by apple strudel and ice cream plus a nice cheese platter with appropriate drinks, all in air conditioned comfort while the auto pilot continued its work. This is a great piece of equipment, never complains, doesn't require feeding and we named it Fred, couldn't use a female name or it probably would have gone off course and started winging.
Speedbird is a beautiful creation, nicely balanced and attracts much favourable comment and enviable looks I'm confident her design and pedigree will continue to stand us well.
Muskat cove consists of golden sands, turquoise water, palm trees and is surrounded by undulating hills with a deep narrow palm fringed channel to the floating marina. As I look over this scene I feel sad as our friends who take the trouble to follow our progress can't be with us to enjoy the adventure, perhaps i need a larger vessel.
Hopefully we will get a favourable weather window over the next few days so that we can leave with the 8 boats moored an berthed here all waiting for good conditions to go to New Zealand for the cyclone season. We remain flexible in our route and can either return via New Caledonia to clear into Queensland or direct into Coffs Harbour, whichever it may be, I should get out of here before i get too tropical and relaxed as i am slowing down to the point where the locals laid back lazy lifestyle is getting less annoying and that's not good for me.
Scott has just returned from a reef surfing morning and stated that it was the best few barrels he has ever had so Muskat Cove caters for all requirements.
Roger just put a frangipanni flower in water on the table so I am locking my cabin door tonight.
Love to all,
Jack.
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