Year Two
Date: 4/8/2009 16:30
Weather: Warm
Location: Fawn Harbour (16 43.55' S, 179 43.725' E)
Author: Peter.

We set sail back to the east early this morning but thanks to some light and variable winds we have not gotten as far as we would have liked. This however is not a bad thing as we are anchored up in a pretty little spot called Fawn Harbour. The anchorage is perfectly still as we are protected by a major reef to the south blocking out all swell. We are anchored in clear water surrounded by natural wonders. To our north, dark green healthy mangroves meet the water. Straight behind them the heavily wooded mountains rise steeply, reminding me a bit of Coffs. There are a few nice houses scattered low down close to the water otherwise it is clear of human interference. To the west is the coast we have just come along but all we can see are a few small islands. Out to the east we can see the outline of the large island of Taveuni rising up out of the sea shrouded in mist with its peak hidden in the clouds.

Taveuni is the third largest island in Fiji and it was to here almost three years ago to the day that Kylie and I had a wonderful (not) experience in a plane. The island is in stark contrast to its surroundings. The giant monolith stands out as Ayres Rock stands out from the desert. Although much smaller in plan view than Vanua Levu due to its shape and bulk it has a commanding presence. Tomorrow we again make our way further east to Viani Bay the start of the channel between Vanua Levu and Taveuni Island.

It is important in places such as this to get to anchorages during day light hours. Trying to navigate through coral reefs in the dark is rather stupid in our eyes and should only be attempted under extreme circumstances. It is for this reason that we pulled up early into one of our backup anchorages. Although its entrance looks difficult in through the reef, it is not and we would highly recommend this spot to other cruisers.

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