“Sunday Island” Sailing Bora Bora FP to Tonga

(Short message from “Sunny Island” crew)

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> After wating for a weather window, then a false start due to weather and customs which were shut down over a long weekend and the French elections, we departed Bora Bora on the 8th July with a very light forecast. >
> Once Sunday island was totally secure and packed away we motored out of the pass with a light SE wind and hoisted all the sails; Missen, Mainsail, Staysail and Code O. By 2200 the wind had disappeared and we motored until the wind returned at 6am and had a lovely sail through the day of the 9th July with the wind gradually increaing. Despite no wind being forecast by 1500 we had the mizzen down and two reefs in the main and we were trucking along at 8 knots. The wind increaseed through the night to 29kts, and remained strong throughout the day, bringing with it some big seas and swells from the south. We were making great time, but the crew were a bit worse for wear! >
> Yesterday began to calm down, and today we have had a magic day of sailing, again with all the sails set, but at times only making 4 knots due to the light winds. Today we passed Cook Islands to the south and tomorrow (12th) we should pass close to Palmerston Island.

> All well.
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Published by Richard Hewson

Richard Hewson is a Tasmania-based ships captain, marine surveyor, and experienced sailor with a lifelong connection to the sea. With experience in project management and vessel commissioning, he has operated and raced a wide range of vessels—from dinghies and Maxi yachts to tankers, icebreakers and research vessels. Richard has competed in major offshore events including the Sydney to Hobart, Fastnet, Middle Sea, and Transatlantic races including the Mini Transat. In 2012, he skippered the winning yacht in the Clipper Round the World Race. He has sailed to every continent and explored all corners of the world from Antarctica to south pacific atols and recently completed a three-year family voyage from the Netherlands to Tasmania. Richard holds a Master Class 1 (unrestricted), RYA Yachtmaster Ocean, Engineering (1200kw) and commercial diving certifications, and is an AMSA-accredited marine surveyor. He is also affiliated with the Australasian Institutes of Marine Surveyors and is passionate about all things that float.

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