Sand Dollar made landfall at 9 AM this morning after a very fast passage from Tonga. The 428 miles were covered in less than three days for an average speed of 6.1 knots. That's fast for a 34 ft. boat with only 26.5 ft. of waterline. It would have been even faster but we slowed the boat to 4 knots the final 12 hours in order to arrive in daylight. The speed of the passage was not a result of highly tuned rigging and exceptional sailing skills, but rather very strong winds and a solid boat. For all this performance we paid the price of being wet, tired and uncomfortable. I would rather have had a slower passage and more sleep.

Savusavu is very welcoming for tired sailors. As we entered the harbor the marina called to report they were sending a man in a small boat to help us tie to a mooring. Then, a succession of officials were ferried out to us for the formalities. Everyone was extremely courteous, friendly and efficient. The marina complex has the usual amenities such as showers, toilets and laundry but also has high speed internet, restaurants, a marine hardware store, travel agencies, a bakery, and gift shops. Apparently, many Kiwi and Ausie boats spend the winter here.

All else is well onboard and we are beginning to dry out. Unfortunately it has been raining here for the past two weeks and shows no sign of letting up.