R and R at Vakaâeitu Island
27 July 2023
Karen
Just south of where Rover made landfall in Tonga (Neiafu), is a circular
group of islands. Three hours motoring took us past Nuapapu
(northernmost) where later we would have dinner hosted by locals (a
fundraiser for their childrenâs initiatives).
This island creates a natural barrier to north winds, arch-shaped as it
is. To the south is Vakaâeitu where we are anchored, and several other
smaller islands and curious outcrops of rock with vegetated tops too
small to be called islands. Itâs very picturesque nested in the middle
as we are situated, and according to the guide and local information, a
good place for snorkeling.
Today we arose late, enjoyed a leisurely morning and conversation while
sheltered from light showers under the cockpit cover (Bimini). The
afternoon was busy, cleaning mud topside tracked in last night after
dinner, and below decks initiating our daily chores (bowls & soles,
yogurt making) and preparing food.
Downtime today includes baking brownies (Katie), reading and relaxing
(all others), and chatting with a couple from Everett, WA on SV Hina
adjacent to us. Tomorrow we hope for sun and snorkeling. Katie and Mike
(on a two-week holiday) have acclimated to the time change and living
aboard a moving platform (3 nights now).
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