We are still using the HF radio to post blog updates (and do everything else). This prohibits posting pictures which is a shame because this place is indescribable. We will post a picture for each day as soon as we get to a WiFi or shore based internet outlet.

Fatu Hiva is pretty isolated as places go. There is no airport (and certainly no place to put one). A water shuttle runs to Hiva Oa and there is a road between the two towns with a few four wheelers plying it (2 hours one way). I have not met anyone who has made the hike to the other town. A couple of guys we talked to walked for five hours and felt like they were just past half way so they turned back. Fatu Hiva does have a phone or three though and, of course, you can get fresh French Baguettes. These are truly amazing and you could not get better in Paris.

We cleaned the entire boat up today and Nobu did the entire water line (thanks Nobu!!). It wasn't too bad but things do get in a state after a two week rambunctious passage.

Late in the afternoon we went diving on the south side of the bay. It was pretty nice with good vis and a wide variety of fish. The sheer cliffs run straight down to the bottom at about 80 feet. Huge boulders near the point provide shelter for massive schools of grunts and the like.

We wrapped up the day with a nice dinner and watched Mutiny on the Bounty (the 1935 best picture version). It was perfect.

Nobu says: "Today was my first time to try to catch Lobster spear fishing!"

Hideko says: "I can't describe how beautiful Fatu Hiva is above and below the water."