The sailing to Vanuatu from Fiji was superb! We hit a speed record of 19.4 knots yesterday afternoon, and by night fall, we had dropped the big screecher to try to slow down Sea Child for a daylight arrival. We had anticipated a 60 hour crossing, which we had, but we also expected to arrive after sunrise. Efate Island came into view early this morning, pre-dawn, as we continued to sail along at 10 knots plus boat speed. The steady SE winds pushed us along, and by 7:00 am we rolled up the jib, stowed the screecher, and prepared for our anchor drop at the Q dock at Port Vila. The arrival process includes a dinghy ride to Customs, located across this picturesque bay to the large ship pier. After Customs, another dinghy ride into Port Vila proper was necessary to visit Immigration.

Sea Child continues to amaze us with her power through the water. As we sat on the lower swim steps yesterday during the crossing and ran our toes through the rushing waves, we realize how very lucky we are to experience what some people can only dream about. The peaceful yet exhilarating crossing allowed us all to clear our minds of mundane issues and focus on the incredible experience of an open ocean crossing. We are preparing for our discovery of Vanuatu with its many islands, but will always cherish the memory of the open ocean, and the power of Sea Child, 19.4 knots and all.