After flying along before 20 plus knot winds all day and 2 to 3 metre seas we closed on the coast of Viti Levu the Fijian island we were aiming for. We had to negotiate a passage through the fringing reef to enter the calm waters of the lagoon and from over a mile offshore we could see waves crashing on the reef. Without the benefit of our navigation equipment closing on a reef like this would be terrifying for a sailor. As we neared the passage the sun was just dipping below the horizon and fortunately the seas moderated as we started to get some protection from the reef. On que the flashing lead lights ashore that guide you through the passage became visible and this aligned with our charts, phew.

I have to admit to some anxiety before coming through the passage. Not knowing whether the lead lights were working or whether our charts were accurate coupled with the possibility of getting a hiding from the seas on our beam. But all the concerns faded one by one as everything lined up and the seas dropped. After 30 minutes we were inside the lagoon in flat water and sailing the 15 nm to the marina. Time for a cold beer to quench our dry mouths.

It is now Friday morning and we spent the night anchored outside the marina, we are now awaiting the customs, immigration, bio security and health officials to visit us and clear us into Fiji. It will happen but not quickly. In the mean time we are washing down the boat and cleaning up. Joe our new crew will join us here and no doubt is onshore waiting for us with hopefully a couple of cold beers!!

More on Fiji next post

Bern