Huahine to Raiatea

Geoff's surf spot at Fare, Huahine

The little Motu we anchored behind, Raiatea

Our berth at Apooiti Marina, Raiatea.

We got an early start for our passage to Raiatea, it's about 25 nmiles and with no wind it was going to be a long motor across. The nice thing was the seas were low and flat, so at least it was smooth. And the fridge got a good chill down! Another beautiful day for Christine, sunny warm and clear. How lucky was that considering the weather forecasts were for rain?!

We made it to the eastern pass into Raiatea after about 4 hours, there is a little motu (island) that you can anchor behind in the shallowest anchorages available in Raiatea and Tahaa. These are two islands sitting in the same reef protected lagoon. Most of the anchorages are in about 60' and that's alot of chain and rope to lay out each night for anchoring. So we had a go at this tight little spot, there were three boats there already and we had to anchor on the southern end of the motu. In 29' but the bottom was strewn with large coral bommies and our anchor ended up wrapped around one directly under the bow! So after a quick swim, we carefully hauled up the chain and anchor and motored on around the top of Raiatea to the north western corner to the Moorings Charter Yacht base at Apooiti Marina. Here Geoff was able to secure us a nice berth tied alongside the visitors wharf in 9' of very calm water. For only $25 aud a night!!!!! How cheap is that?

So we all went off and enjoyed a nice shower to freshen up for sun downers at the bar on the marina grounds. Now no surprise is it that the drinks cost way more than the Marina anchorage did! A scotch and dry will set you back $12.80, same for Chris's Gin and Tonic, however Geoff's Hinano beer 330ml only cost $7.20... a bargain! Geoff says us girls should learn to drink Beer! We splurged at Chris's suggestion for a second round, hmmmm maybe the sun got to Geoff today?? But we also ended up staying for dinner and the French Chef really did his country proud of gastronomic delights! Chris of course refused to let us pay, so I think she has to mortgage the Farm when she gets home to pay her Credit card bill?? The food was superb, truly a special treat.

Today Geoff and Chris have gone off for a walk to Uturoa the main town about 4 kms away and to suss out the Airport for Chris's departure this afternoon. Four days goes really fast and we have had a fab time, for the short time it was. Tonight here at the wharf and then tomorrow off to visit Tahaa? We think?????