Yesterday we sailed west across Makemo lagoon to an anchorage near an uninhabited motu.
I stood watch at the bow while Lexi steered. The lagoon is well populated by small coral reefs. Depths averaged about 60 feet, but the coral heads rise straight up to just beneath the surface.
We are at:
S 16*31'
W 143*49'
There are also pearl farms suspended in the lagoon. Mikimoto employs Polynesians to culture black pearls in the Tuamotus.
It's been windy the last few days. Other boats sailing from Marquesas are encountering 25 knot winds and large waves. We are still having our daily radio meeting with nearby boats.
Canoe culture is strong here. The locals paddle their outriggers every day. Not dugout from trees, these canoes are of composite construction and fast. The local paddlers are strong, heavily tatooed and run full carbon paddles.
During our downwind run yesterday an OC-1 caught, passed, and dropped us as we sailed at 5 to 6 knots.
Outstanding.
Today we'll go ashore to explore the island. Soon we will exit the Passe Tapuhiria and sail 90 miles to Fakarava.
All is well
Martin
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If you're interested, Manu and Tila Salmon run Motu Aito Paradise near the south pass of Fakarava. Their address is 16*30.23S, 145*27W. They are delightful people in a beautiful place. Have a safe trip!
ReplyDeletePaul,
ReplyDeleteWe were delighted to meet the Salmons' at Motu Aito. After Mart hauled 50kg bags of concrete for Manu (to avoid being ruined by very high tides) he treated us to dinner at his restaurant! So cool that you've been here, amazing place, n'est pas?