The weather has been less than it's normal, lovely self for the last week; winds in the mid 20s make even the Vava'u anchorages uncomfortable. We've been hanging on a mooring here in town where it is protected, provisions and restaurants are close, and there is wifi access. Hiking, kart touring and Friday night beer can racing have kept us busy.

The karts (photo) are a cross between a go kart and a dune buggy, and built in China (is everything now?). They are perfect for exploring the back country. Surprise showed her transom to the rest of the fleet again, but the competition is getting faster. The second place boat was a big Jeanneau...maybe 54' that gave us a great race to the weather mark. They don't allow spinnakers, but it was breezy enough without one for Surprise to pull away.

Monday will find us back out to the outlying islands for more snorkeling and sightseeing before we head south for the King's coronation.