Wednesday, 11 July 2012

Crocodiles remained obligingly hidden during the day in Numbuko Bay, Vanikolo, but locals discouraged swimming at night citing somewhat less inhibition after dark. Notwithstanding, some care was observed on a trip with Freezing Rain up the nearby shallow river to obtain fresh water. Girls seemed reluctant for boys to leave protection of dink to tow upstream theorizing that a few inches of rubber would provide impediment to any hungry, large-toothed reptiles about. Uh huh, uh huh.

Just after our departure to daysail there, reports of drunken, red toothed, betel nut chewing natives, apparently celebrating Solomon Islands independence anniversary day before, accosting three overnighting boats encouraged bypass of Utupua to continue on for Byron Bay, Santa Cruz, closest stop that might allow entry after dark. Having proved recalcitrant all day, radar revived for 2200 approach under moonless, overcast and rainy sky to rocky, rolly anchorage thus avoiding pleasure of heaving to offshore awaiting dawn in 3 meter swell.

Sailed on to Lata next day, but because Solomon Air's biweekly flight Tuesday was canceled due inability to see past the twin otter's nose in torrential rain, customs and immigration will not materialize from Honiara to officially welcome current census of 16 boats (there were but 20 passing through all last year) until next schedule Saturday. Amusing as is sitting aboard day after day with dwindling fresh rations while gazing languidly ashore, the delay prevents experiencing the delights, if any, of beautiful downtown Lata. Apparently a local health official will at least grant us pratique today so that pillage, plunder and disruption of their ancient, traditional way of life may commence.

Jack