New Caledonia

What an introduction to cruising! Over 8 weeks we explored most of the sounthern and central east lagoon, as well as Lifou in the Loyalty Islands. Noumea was our base – very French, rather expensive, but fun and somewhat laid back compared to the city lifestyle we had left behind.. In the process we learnt much more about sailing the boat (and sailing her 2 handed), about the provisioning required for long term cruising and the daily procedures necessary to make life easy and safe. We also gradually let go of the pre-departure tension and learnt to relax, enjoy island time and realise that if something breaks there is always a fix – as long as you are not pressed for time.

Highlights?
Lagoon sailing under full sail on flat water; doing 8 knots upwind in only 10 knots of breeze. Even the dinghy skipped along without drag.
Being escorted by groups of dolphins as we worked our way through the navigation challenges of lagoon sailing and reef dodging.
Our first experience of working our way through reefs and into uncharted waters to visit Vao on the Isle des Pins.
The turtles at Baie Kuto
The fish and produce market on the waterfront at Noumea
Meeting many yachties from all over who had assembled in Noumea on the first leg of their 2006 cruising experience.
The whale breaching nearby as we headed across the ocean between southern lagoon entrances.
Anchoring overnight on the edge of the lagoon in a narrow channel between reefs and having the deserted island to ourselves.
The oysters at the top of Baie de Pronie – giant and succulent – pick them up in the shallows. (By the way, that photo is of the oysters!!!!)
The safe and calm bay anchorages overnight with often a resident dugong.