We left Bora Bora on June 24, 2007 for a 5 day sail to the Cook Islands. It was hard to re-adjust to overnight sailing after spending so much time on anchor at all the beautiful Polynesian Islands.

The first few days, the sea was quite rough with swells up to 16 feet The wind was from all directions causing constant sail adjustments. But that was nothing compared to the storm that awaited us, probably the worst weather we have been in. The seas were even rougher with 20 foot walls of water (see pictures below) coming at us, splashing and crashing over the boat. The winds were high at 35 knots, constant. Our mainsail ripped and we had to plow through using only the reefed jib. The going was slow and added an extra night to the passage. We were fortunate to have a full moon that gave us some night vision. The Almighty Ocean was telling us that we must work to enjoy the treasures we seek…

Our gem was the Island of Rarotonga. We arrived at night on June 29, and were so happy to be on land after that crossing. The island is lush and tropical. We have been here for a week cleaning the salt off the boat, resting, hiking, and re-provisioning for our next passage which will be 600 miles to the island of Niue (another 5 day passage). We spent the 4th of July and our 24th Wedding Anniversary with some of our cruising pals…

The needle on Rarotonga. We climbed up to the base
of it and down the other side of the mountain.



View from on top











Waterfall at the bottom



Fourth of July on Rarotonga beach. We barbequed
with many dear sailing friends. It was great.
























These are pictures of Manatee, she made the crossing
with us. Do you wish you were here?