Flotilla Homeward Bound

Flotilla Homeward Bound

We sailed overnight from the Russell Islands to the New Georgia Islands. During the night the wind suddenly changed direction 180 degrees and while we were adjusting the sails a squall hit us with heavy rain and 30 knot winds. By the time we had dropped the sails we were all drenched. The joys of tropical sailing!

Our destination wasw Viru Harbour on New Georgia Island. The entrance is beteween hills covered in rainforest. Overlooking the entrance is a relic from the 2nd World War, a Japanese cannon. It is really one of the most beautiful places imaginable. The homes are surrounded by flowers including lots of orchids.

We anchored off the main wharf and as elsewhere in the Solomons the locals gave us a warm welcome. Children swimming and canoeing out to see us and people waving from their houses. ARCADIA WE HAVE FOUND YOU.

Half a day's sail north and we were anchored in a pristine mangrove swamp. I had deja vu on entering. It reminded me of a Monet painting; readers may know what I mean when I put the photos on the internet. Despite the possibilities of crocodiles we had a quick swim to cool off.

The following day we were in Gizo enjoying dinner in a restaurant run by an expat American. The following evening was to be our last in the Solomons and Stavros and Ruth went back to the American restaurant. I was having a quiet wine on board listening to Bocelli when 2 young men came alongside and offered to fetch us some fresh water. On their return they borrowed my video Blade Runner. Two of their friends called in and we watched a Kung Fu movie on board. Stavros and Ruth arrived on board and a few minutes later the 2 boys returned with the video. Our last night was enjoyable.

It is 800 miles to Cairns. We anticipate arriving on the 20th July. On our first night at sea we ran into a storm which lasted for hours. There was constant lightning, thunder claps and drenching rain. We left it behind this morning and have had a good day's sail.

Lance

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