Explore Sailing Voyages in Fiji 🇫🇯

This was the final leg of the 1200 mile passage from Tonga to Whangarei, New Zealand. After stopping at Minerva South Reef to make final preparations we set off heading clockwise out of the pass to see if we could catch some fish to stretch our provisions. The plan worked and we landed two large wahoo which yielded a total of 120 steaks. We then had 2 days of motor-sailing in light winds before encountering heavy seas up to 5m leading to green water over the deck and some soggy cabins. This lasted 3 days and some sailing was possible although we also had to motor at times. As we approached Tawahi Rahi island the waves moderated while the wind stayed above 12kts allowing us to sail the last few hundred miles, even flying the asymmetrical for a time. As we closed on the coast we saw more wildlife including dolphins, pilot whales and a possible sighting of a sei whale. Arrival into Marsden Cove Marina was straightforward and well marked. We tied up to the 'Q' berth overnight to await customs and biosecurity clearance together with 4 other boats, one rafted up.

A bright but overcast day. Following a morning swim with plenty to see on the coral reef at Yanuya, we stowed the dhobeying and got under way with light airs to motor all the way. Passing Monuriki, the island where Tom Hanks filmed Castaway and others where the television series Survivor and Love Island were filmed, we slowed to half speed on passing over a reef but maintained 4m under the keel. On anchoring in the busy Anchorage of Musket Cove, the rain started!

A breezy start with a fresh F5 from the NE, flukes winds as we headed south and passed the high ground on our port side. Wind died away to F1 and we motor sailed for the last hour and a half. Arrival Is in a beautiful anchorage with crystal clear water wind sandy beach and drooping palm trees behind.

Hoisted main a foresail before brief instruction on weighing anchor on the foredeck. Skipper was over excited and dragged the snubber hook over the gypsy, disengaging the anchor chain and this allowing it ALL to run out. Situation was quickly recovered and a pleasant downwind sail ensued with wind blowing F4 -F5 from the North East. Excitement dodging between reefs with only 2.5m beneath the keel at one stage but arrived safe and happy in a windy but calm anchorage.