We have been exploring Isle of Pines - walked into Vao approx 6 km (up hill), pleasant views once higher and a small village consisting of a school,post office,corner store,bank & Airport. Baguettes are the popular food source, so again this was breakfast, later an ice-cream and can of coke - junk food YUM! Always taste better when you haven't had it for a while.

Alot less English spoken, except for local French girl selling her jewellery who was helpful in calling a taxi for us, to get back down to Baie de Kanumera...(ok i know that sounds lazy - I had blisters on my feet - wrong shoes worn) The taxi driver said nothing and had his stereo playing Melanisian/regae all the way, fine with me as those bulls in the paddocks along the way were bothering me a little, particullary when I was wearing bright red shorts.

We spent sundowners on board a New Zealand SV "Melody" (Hol & Ros) who have a similar itinerary to us. Saturday we moved due to weather change back around to Kuto. Sunday we spent exploring a small Island off Kuto,lle Bayonnaise- had a good snorkel, no luck spearing any fish and later explored the island, sea snakes baking in the sun.

About 3pm we anchored the tinny and fished - I kept getting this massive bite, but it was too quick for me, it kept dragging my line under the reef & breaking off the hook. I caught a few small fish and later I had my monster fish back, John took over and it looked promising but whatever it was won - snapped my Reef Fishing Rod clean in half - John said he is going to take the spear gun down & get him...I am not sure i want whatever is that strong. Roast Chicken for Dinner tonight. (Food a bit cheaper here than Noumea - Small Frozen Chicken $3 AUD)

We are sharing Baie de Kuto with about 6 other Yachts and basically have the Island all to ourselves until the next Cruise Ship arrives tonight - a few tourists staying in huts on Island also.

(Gordon & Kay, your French comment, I have yet to decipher...I need you guys around. I managed to understand a French Lady yesterday and could reply...it was only Bonjour, comment ca va & my response Ja vais bien, merci! I was a bit chuffed!)