Rurutu

We had a few days on Rurutu. Luckily, it was the start of Heiva, a yearly celebration and festival. These are lifting stones. Some weigh up to 200 kg. They are part of the Heiva competition.

We were able to come to Rurutu because the normal tradewinds lightened for a few days, making the small harbor entrance passable. After a short stint tied to the dock with a kedge, the surge forced us to drop anchor and tie a stern line to shore. It worked beautifully. We were the only boat there and and the Gendarme told us the 2nd boat to have visited this year.

It's always fun to light up when you're fueling up!
We got to go out in this panga and observe the round the island canoe race, part of Heiva festivities.

Start of the race.

Catching a bit of surf on the final leg. Humpback whales are here to calve.

S/V Tamata leaving Tubuai, looking awesome.

Yes, there is a pick-up under there. We got conscripted into the Heiva parade and had to march behind the Tourism Commision signs. Look! Tourists!

It's just not a float unless there is a pig and a rooster on board.