Archipel Des Tuamotu

The "Tuamotus" are a group of 78 islands, all but two being coral atolls. They lie in a NW-SE direction across 15 degrees of longitude (almost 1000 miles). Together with the Marquises and the Society Islands (Tahiti) they form French Polynesia. To enter an atoll, you must sail or motor through a pass, which is a break in the enciricling reef. This entrance must be timed with the tides and wave action outside the pass. High winds and seas can make a pass unuseable. Once inside the lagoon, one must have high sunlight to navigate and avoid the numerous coral heads and shoals. Unfortunately, on my arrival, the winds were 30 knots, seas 8-10' and overcast. If you can't get into the atoll you can't anchor outside as the depths are to great. My only safe choice was to continue. It was disappointing but there will  be other atolls...

Change in Plans....

Well, the adventure of Mike Mallory continues... He called tonight and reported that he had a slight change in plans. Due to uncooperative weather and other circumstances, he was unable to get into Tuamotus island.

 Sooo, Next Stop...... Tahiti! 

Based on his location today, he plans to arrive in Tahiti tomorrow afternoon.
Tough life ...huh?   

Once settled, I am sure he will post  a much more interesting story.  For now...
You are stuck with my mini updates letting you know his whereabouts.  
Can't wait to join him in Tahiti!  Fun times ahead. 
xoxo,
c

Traveled 3000nm from Galapagos to Marquesas Islands....




Heading to the Galapagos Islands...
 flipper drafted along side Flyer



 

Kicking Rock is located in the middle of the Galapagos Islands
and is a popular diving spot.  The giant rock raises 500' straight from
ocean.  Also known as Sleeping Lion
(Leon Dormido in Spanish)


  

Arrived in the Galapagos... and found a new friend 

  



Galapagos is famous for the giant tortoise.  They vary in size

from 29" in (shell length) & 60lbs to 4' and 700 lbs.



Fishing along my way to the Marquesas.... got Lucky again!



Dinner fit for a King.... Mahi Mahi & Asparagus.

 To Celebrate crossing my half way point...

 I ate melon from the Galapagos   





View from the hatch below.... 



 

Out to Sea...  headed to the Marquesas with no land in sight



 

Another beautiful sunset



The trip from Galapagos to the Marquesas was incredible.  I had great weather with only one day of showers. I have to give credit to my navigator/weather man.... thanks Stoney.

This information is for my friend Al Hyde....   3000nm trip-461.25hrs= 6.504kts.  Engine used only to charge batteries and refrigeration... 28hrs- 5.5 gal. 

I plan to set sail tomorrow, headed to an island called Tuamotus.....  about 500nm.