May 23, 2015 Exploring Islands

We had to motor sailed from Taveuni to make it by 4 pm to the NE pass of the Exploring Islands. The chart plotter was about half a mile off, so it was a little more nerve racking making sure we were in the correct location. Plus the government markers look like they might fall down at any moment, and many have and have not been replaced. This one appears to have been repaired by the locals.

Fortunately there are great range markers, so getting lined up correctly wasn't too bad, but it was still a challenging pass since there are coral heads close on either side of the path in.  We were met by our friend Hans off Nautilus to guide us into the Ships Sound anchorage in the Bay of Islands. There is no way we could have made it in without his assistance, since you must weave your way around coral heads and small limestone islands to reach this stunning anchorage. This is the most beautiful anchorage we have been in on this trip, and probably will be in. The rock formations are impressive. Small islands jut straight up out of the pristine blue water and at low tide you can see how the water has eroded the edges of these islands making them look like large rocks gently set on a small pedestal.

The waters are teaming with fish and scattered corals, including this brilliant red sea fan.

 Around the corner from the anchorage is a beautiful beach where we relaxed and chopped coconuts. Gigi used some of the coconut to make a yummy banana cream pie.

 After a few days we travelled around the corner to Bavatu Harbour. This bay hosts an expansive coconut plantation and the Royal Exploring Isles Yacht Squadron. The caretaker of the plantation was very welcoming and his son, Benny, even guided on a hike up to a high point that overlooks Bavatu Harbour and the Bay of Islands. The last part of the hike required us to scale the jagged rocks straight up to a precarious, but beautiful, lookout.

The plantation is covered with mandarin, lime and orange trees and they said we could take as many as we wanted.

I love the name of the store. (It was not open while we were here).

The plantation and the Yacht Squadron are owned by an Australian, but the caretaker allowed us to use the Yacht Squadron building and shower, so we have enjoyed a few happy hours overlooking the bay.

We plan to spend more time in the Exploring Islands as there is a lot to see in this beautiful and untouched part of the world.

Cheers,

Julie