LATITUDE: 12-53.53N
LONGITUDE: 158-36.28W
Miles traveled in 24 hours: 143 (picking up speed)
Miles to Fanning Island: 540 (almost half way!)
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD...
It was beautiful - sun shined, the ocean sparkled, waves settled down, winds continued 18 to 25 - we made up some time and it was smooth sailing. I like that. If we are lucky, we just might have that kind of day today too.
So we rested, read, and I worked on my mani/pedi - which is way over due.
Already started to think about the ITCZ (Inter Tropical Convergence Zone). It is lurking at about 6 degrees. I am not looking for a Free Pass, but hoping that we catch it on a good day and it gives us a gentle ride.
Also, already starting to think about that first ice cold beer (or two) once we drop our anchor in Fanning!
I keep forgetting to tell you about the Cloud Trains - that's what I call them. Every afternoon, these long lines of clouds form and continue to grow bigger and longer and darker throughout the day following the sun as it passes. As the sun sets, they converge around it and create these amazing formations. I can't describe it well, but I got lots of pictures I will share.
As we pass under these Cloud Trains, we expect increased wind on the front side, a little calming in the middle, and increased wind on the back side. Usually, lots of rain too, but so far we haven't had but a few sprinkles.
It is hard to imagine the force that the sun and the moon have over the clouds and waves - very interesting watching them charge after the setting sun and rally around the moon. Hope you get to see it one of these days!
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Thursday, June 13, 2013
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Day 3 - Oahu to Fanning Island
LATITUDE: 15-05.24N
LONGITUDE: 158-35.04W
Miles traveled in 24 hours: 122 (slow...)
Miles to Fanning Island: 683
WE CAUGHT FISH(ES)!
Well, one jumped in to the cockpit and Doug sat on him and squished him (a horrible/stinky death).
One Doug caught on the handline. A 15lb Skipjack. We decided to hold out for an Ahi, so we gave him back to Neptune. But, it was some excitement - we love catching fish.
Most of yesterday and last night, we were sailing through big black squalls and big waves. The squalls are windy, but no rain, so that helps. So, we chose to leave up our staysail so that we could be comfortable. It worked; we both slept well and are functioning better.
Today, the sun is shining and we haven't seen a squall yet - big waves, but no squall. So, we put out our jib (reduced) and are making much better time, plus it smoothed out our ride.
Ed & Karen - did you see the moon and the planets that form the triangle? It was so crystal clear and beautiful - thought of you two. I will try and get a picture tonight!
My current social network: Flying fish, birds (boobies, terns, and seagulls), and Doug. Miss my Peeps!
Hope everyone are doing well!
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LONGITUDE: 158-35.04W
Miles traveled in 24 hours: 122 (slow...)
Miles to Fanning Island: 683
WE CAUGHT FISH(ES)!
Well, one jumped in to the cockpit and Doug sat on him and squished him (a horrible/stinky death).
One Doug caught on the handline. A 15lb Skipjack. We decided to hold out for an Ahi, so we gave him back to Neptune. But, it was some excitement - we love catching fish.
Most of yesterday and last night, we were sailing through big black squalls and big waves. The squalls are windy, but no rain, so that helps. So, we chose to leave up our staysail so that we could be comfortable. It worked; we both slept well and are functioning better.
Today, the sun is shining and we haven't seen a squall yet - big waves, but no squall. So, we put out our jib (reduced) and are making much better time, plus it smoothed out our ride.
Ed & Karen - did you see the moon and the planets that form the triangle? It was so crystal clear and beautiful - thought of you two. I will try and get a picture tonight!
My current social network: Flying fish, birds (boobies, terns, and seagulls), and Doug. Miss my Peeps!
Hope everyone are doing well!
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Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Day 2 - Oahu to Fanning Island
LATITUDE: 17-11.15N
LONGITUDE: 158-33.43W
Miles traveled in 24 hours: 116 (slow...)
Miles to Fanning Island: 805
Big Island Day -
I never realized how much the Big Island would affect our trip!
Yesterday, we had hazy voggy skies all day due to the volcanic ash. Which, meant a beautiful hot pink sunset, of course.
The Big Island blocked our wind for awhile. That was kind of nice - it gave us a chance to catch up on some sleep (wished we would have showered too!).
And, the confused/agitated seas and unsettled weather as we left the island behind us - just to make keep us from sleeping.
It is a Big Island, but we are over it!
Now we are just in squally weather. Last night, we reduced our jib a little since the winds were kicking up. Unfortunately, the jib sheet snatch block opened up and our sheet was out of control. We decided to save that for today and put up our staysail instead. So, we didn't make much time last night. Oh well. the jib is back in operation and we are cruising along through squalls and big splashes that go "whack" just before they soak the cockpit.
But, Doug and I are doing well and laughing our way through it - at least afterwards.
Don't you wish you were here. Hah!
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LONGITUDE: 158-33.43W
Miles traveled in 24 hours: 116 (slow...)
Miles to Fanning Island: 805
Big Island Day -
I never realized how much the Big Island would affect our trip!
Yesterday, we had hazy voggy skies all day due to the volcanic ash. Which, meant a beautiful hot pink sunset, of course.
The Big Island blocked our wind for awhile. That was kind of nice - it gave us a chance to catch up on some sleep (wished we would have showered too!).
And, the confused/agitated seas and unsettled weather as we left the island behind us - just to make keep us from sleeping.
It is a Big Island, but we are over it!
Now we are just in squally weather. Last night, we reduced our jib a little since the winds were kicking up. Unfortunately, the jib sheet snatch block opened up and our sheet was out of control. We decided to save that for today and put up our staysail instead. So, we didn't make much time last night. Oh well. the jib is back in operation and we are cruising along through squalls and big splashes that go "whack" just before they soak the cockpit.
But, Doug and I are doing well and laughing our way through it - at least afterwards.
Don't you wish you were here. Hah!
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Monday, June 10, 2013
Day 1 - Oahu to Fanning Island
LATITUDE: 19-10.91N
LONGITUDE: 158-12.02W
Miles traveled in 23 hours: 136
Miles to Fanning Island: 921
Woke up yesterday morning in Pokai Bay surrounded by spinner dolphins and tourists. It was an exciting way to start the day.
We have been at sea about 23 hours. The winds started at 3 knots and quickly gusted to 26 knots, which matched the forecasts. So, we double reefed our main and shortened the jib. Much more comfortable.
The waves have been a little more exciting than expected. The water flooding through the Hawaiian Island channels sure stirs things up. So, we are being bounced around a bit, but making good time. Captain Doug thinks it will be like this at least one more day.
Saw a sliver of the new moon last night followed by a gazillion stars - one shooting. Forgot how pretty the skies are out here.
Moondance is fine, but a total mess already. Crew are fine, but a little tired and wishing they would have ordered more pizza. Does the Coast Guard deliver? Just kidding!
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LONGITUDE: 158-12.02W
Miles traveled in 23 hours: 136
Miles to Fanning Island: 921
Woke up yesterday morning in Pokai Bay surrounded by spinner dolphins and tourists. It was an exciting way to start the day.
We have been at sea about 23 hours. The winds started at 3 knots and quickly gusted to 26 knots, which matched the forecasts. So, we double reefed our main and shortened the jib. Much more comfortable.
The waves have been a little more exciting than expected. The water flooding through the Hawaiian Island channels sure stirs things up. So, we are being bounced around a bit, but making good time. Captain Doug thinks it will be like this at least one more day.
Saw a sliver of the new moon last night followed by a gazillion stars - one shooting. Forgot how pretty the skies are out here.
Moondance is fine, but a total mess already. Crew are fine, but a little tired and wishing they would have ordered more pizza. Does the Coast Guard deliver? Just kidding!
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Saturday, June 8, 2013
Finally left the Marina - yeah!
We are anchored out at Pokai Bay. It is only 8 miles north of the Marina, but feels so much better. Anchored in a beautiful bay surrounded by the immense Waianae Mountain range. Pretty impressive and we only have to share it with one other boat.
We had forgotten how much we enjoy being "on the hook". It is a little rolly, but we are used to that and the sunset was spectacular. Dinner and a movie and then we turn in early.
Tomorrow, we start our sail to Fanning Island - approximately 8 days due south. As of now, it looks like we have found a good weather window. Hope it holds for the whole trip.
Cross your fingers!
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We had forgotten how much we enjoy being "on the hook". It is a little rolly, but we are used to that and the sunset was spectacular. Dinner and a movie and then we turn in early.
Tomorrow, we start our sail to Fanning Island - approximately 8 days due south. As of now, it looks like we have found a good weather window. Hope it holds for the whole trip.
Cross your fingers!
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Friday, June 7, 2013
We are on the move again - finally!
After 18 months, we are finally ready to start sailing again. We leave the marina today and go anchor out. Saturday, we will sail away to Fanning Island, Kiribati. About 8 days due south. We are hoping for a good sail!
Ko Olina has been a beautiful place to live and we have met some amazing people, but it is time to start our next adventure.
Our R&R Yacht Club buddies are like family and we know that we will see them again somewhere. Looking forward to it!
Moondance (and Captain Doug) got an "A" rating from the rigger, John Koon - Tradewind Marine Services. He was very thorough and efficient and we highly recommend him.
John pronounced Moondance ready to sail. Yeah! Plus, he shared some great tips, which Doug has already implemented.
We motored out this week and calibrated some equipment (spun circles) and topped off the fuel tanks. It felt good to be back on the water.
All lists have been completed and all Moondance's lockers are over stuffed. Food and spare parts are stuck in some unusual spots - good thing we keep a list.
Our bunk will be shared with some of the "extra" stuff that just couldn't find a home. Good thing we got a big bunk. Plus while we are sailing, only 1 person sleeps at a time - the other is on watch.
We will be updating our blog daily while we are at sea - sorry no pictures.
Since we are going to remote islands, we don't anticipate having internet for a couple of months. But, as soon as we do, we will upload pictures.
And away we go! Hope everyone has a wonderful summer. Come and visit us in Fiji!
Thinking of things we won't have for a while - in no special order: fountain soda drinks, washing machine, big showers, draft beer, car, Costco, internet, and walks along the beautiful lagoons...
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| Beautiful Ko Olina - Place of Joy |
Our R&R Yacht Club buddies are like family and we know that we will see them again somewhere. Looking forward to it!
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| R&R Yacht Club - going to miss you! |
John pronounced Moondance ready to sail. Yeah! Plus, he shared some great tips, which Doug has already implemented.
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| Captain Doug is ready |
We motored out this week and calibrated some equipment (spun circles) and topped off the fuel tanks. It felt good to be back on the water.
All lists have been completed and all Moondance's lockers are over stuffed. Food and spare parts are stuck in some unusual spots - good thing we keep a list.
Our bunk will be shared with some of the "extra" stuff that just couldn't find a home. Good thing we got a big bunk. Plus while we are sailing, only 1 person sleeps at a time - the other is on watch.
 |
| Looking for the pot of gold |
We will be updating our blog daily while we are at sea - sorry no pictures.
Since we are going to remote islands, we don't anticipate having internet for a couple of months. But, as soon as we do, we will upload pictures.
And away we go! Hope everyone has a wonderful summer. Come and visit us in Fiji!
Thinking of things we won't have for a while - in no special order: fountain soda drinks, washing machine, big showers, draft beer, car, Costco, internet, and walks along the beautiful lagoons...
 |
| Nai'a Lagoon at Sunset |
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Yes it is Friday; Yes we are still in Hawaii!
We were supposed to leave the marina today, anchor out and wait for a weather window, and then start our slow journey south.
But... the rigger we have been waiting for is going to be here tomorrow (finally). We decided it was worth delaying our departure date. We would be ready to leave on Sunday.
Well, there is a big 6' swell coming up from the south. We decided to wait a couple more days - no reason to beat ourselves up.
Then, I got sick - sinus infection. I need to be 100% for our crossing so heading to the Doc for some drugs.
We are now looking at Thursday... Cross your fingers!
When we finally head south, our first stop will be Fanning Island (Tabuaeran) - about 10 days sailing for us.
We have heard that the supply ships don't have much in stock once they reach Fanning.
So, our dock buddies have donated a bunch of goodies for us to deliver: food, toys, movies, clothes, shoes, pretties, and even a pair of crutches.
Cruisers are wonderful about sharing whatever they have!
Next, we plan on visiting Suwarrow, in the Cook Islands. A cruisers favorite.
But, we might get sidetracked and stop at Penrhyn Island first. Some fellow cruisers just sailed through there and said it was one of their favorites. We shall see how the wind blows.
Next Samoa's and Tonga. Our final destination is Fiji - sometime in August or September. Bula!
Things have been a bit of a blur - too many boat projects. But, we are getting close:
Plus, we are trying to balance the weight load so that we can sail out of here. Not an easy job.
There is also a lot of "goodbye's" happening - lots of our friends leaving the marina.
Steve and Debbie on Delphinia just left today. They are sailing to California and then onto Mexico - their first big journey. We wish them fair winds and following seas!
Lots going on and we are pooped and stressed, but still managing to have some fun and enjoy our last days here.
Good thing Doug and I work well together or we would have killed each other - just kidding.
We will keep you posted!
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| Doug on the flying trapeze |
Well, there is a big 6' swell coming up from the south. We decided to wait a couple more days - no reason to beat ourselves up.
Then, I got sick - sinus infection. I need to be 100% for our crossing so heading to the Doc for some drugs.
We are now looking at Thursday... Cross your fingers!
When we finally head south, our first stop will be Fanning Island (Tabuaeran) - about 10 days sailing for us.
 |
| Cleaning the rigging |
So, our dock buddies have donated a bunch of goodies for us to deliver: food, toys, movies, clothes, shoes, pretties, and even a pair of crutches.
Cruisers are wonderful about sharing whatever they have!
Next, we plan on visiting Suwarrow, in the Cook Islands. A cruisers favorite.
But, we might get sidetracked and stop at Penrhyn Island first. Some fellow cruisers just sailed through there and said it was one of their favorites. We shall see how the wind blows.
Next Samoa's and Tonga. Our final destination is Fiji - sometime in August or September. Bula!
 |
| Filling up the liquor jugs |
Things have been a bit of a blur - too many boat projects. But, we are getting close:
- Rigging cleaned and tuned by Doug
- Dock boxes cleaned out and stuff stowed
- Boat cleaned - at least on the outside
- Provisioning almost done
- Got our Zarpe (exit out of the US)
- And more...
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| Beautiful Ko Olina |
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| Delphinia starting their journey |
There is also a lot of "goodbye's" happening - lots of our friends leaving the marina.
Steve and Debbie on Delphinia just left today. They are sailing to California and then onto Mexico - their first big journey. We wish them fair winds and following seas!
Lots going on and we are pooped and stressed, but still managing to have some fun and enjoy our last days here.
Good thing Doug and I work well together or we would have killed each other - just kidding.
We will keep you posted!
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