In order to avoid a night time arrival, we hove to about 20 miles out and slept 3 hours. When we awoke we saw the island. Smaller than I thought it would be. We had a 3rd reef main up from the heaving to so we left that, rolled out the jib and were rounding the corner in 2 hours. I should have tried to fix the engine more but wanted an excuse to come here for repairs. So, when we motored in, big gusts coming over the hills would push us to starboard (the port engine was the one running so that didn't help us much) When we got in close, the same thing was happening and I was feeling uncomfortable and was about to bail and come up with Plan B. There were 3 boats anchored and a spot that looked good without having to risk hitting one of the other boats so we headed in, had a lull in the gusts just long enough for us to get the anchor down in 94 feet of water. That is a record for us and I thought impossible. Remember, we learned to sail in the Caribbean where 6 feet in nice sand was common.
The gusts set the anchor and I went to work right away to fix the engine in case things went to hell, we wouldn't be crippled.
Once over the stress of anchoring and the nasty gusty (30+) winds coming over the hill, the beauty of this place was starting to be realized. High rock cliffs, huge crevasses, palm trees, green lush vegetation, and super clear water. Then again, after 25 days at sea, the sewage filled bay of Acapulco would have looked inviting. This place really is beautiful though.
We are still waiting for the dugout canoes to come greet us but somehow, I think those days are gone.
In a few days we will go to Hiva Oa, clear in 'legally', gas, water, and go explore the Marquesas. Just planning, but will probably leave for the Tuamotos in 2 weeks.
Cheers, Dave and Booker
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