Picasa Web Albums - Michael & Susan

Minerva Reef

About 250mi. from Tonga, not all boats stop at Minerva on the way to New Zealand. We were happy our timing was right (daylight, weather permitting), because it's a nice way to break up the passage and wait for the right weather window. It was so surreal; like being in a lake in the middle of the ocean!

Oct 14, 2011

Photos: 17

Kingdom of Tonga

Tonga has 3 distinct 'groups'. The Vava'u Group is a boaters paradise with high cliffs plunging straight into the surf. It's a big charter center, and a cruiser friendly place. The Ha'apai Group has the lower coral islands, and again, vibrant reefs and less populated then the Vava'u area. To the South is theTongatapu Group (Sacred South). The main city, Nuku'alofa is the kingdom's seat of government and home of the royal family.

Sep 20, 2011

Photos: 44

Niuatoputapu, Tonga

Called New Potatoes until you get the pronunciation down.

Sep 15, 2011

Photos: 24

Samoa

It used to be called Western Samoa

Sep 5, 2011

Photos: 29

American Samoa

Aug 19, 2011

Photos: 20

Suwarrow

Aug 7, 2011

Photos: 27

Bora Bora

Bora Bora has been labeled the 'Pearl of the Pacific'. There is only one pass (Te Ava Nui) into the lagoon, which is three times larger than its land mass. The spectacular bays and gorgeous beaches are a treat for the eye. The range of light and color in the lagoon is so varied...the water is frequently crystal clear. Of course, navigating is sometimes a challenge when a depth of 3' looks like 6', which looks like 10'!!

Jul 29, 2011

Photos: 24

Taha'a, the Vanilla Island

We found Tahaa to be very friendly, quieter and even lusher than the other Society Islands. Vanilla cultivation and pearl farming dominate the island's economy. The vanilla and flower scent was a treat on our day walk across the 'saddle' from Hurepiti Bay to Haamene Bay. Population 4,500- in eight villages along the shore. As we walked past, we were invited to check out the Tiare Breeze- a unique home and guest room on the south coast of Haamene Bay.

Jul 20, 2011

Photos: 35

Mt. Tapioi views, Raiatea

It was a fairly easy hike the 294m up to Mt. Tapioi. The views were great again....

Jul 16, 2011

Photos: 8

Raiatea

Raiatea, known as Hawaiki, the Sacred Island is Polynesia's second economic center, and hosts many sailboat and charter companies. We enjoyed watching a dance competition- part of the month long Heiva celebrations.

Jul 11, 2011

Photos: 43

Huahine

Huahine has been called the Garden of Eden of the Society Islands. 'Unpretentious and authentically Polynesian', it is laid back not as built up as it's sister islands. We rented a car while anchored off the main town of Fare. It was quite windy and rainy while we were there, so we didn't explore other coves by boat.

Jul 6, 2011

Photos: 14

Moorea

Jul 5, 2011

Photos: 23

Pacific Puddle Jump Party

Jun 26, 2011

Photos: 28

Tahiti Road Trip

We tried to traverse the island across the middle--knowing a 4 wheel drive vehicle was recommended. The 3 passengers got out when the potholes/ ridges got too steep, and walked through the rough spots. We got to the top and were told the road was closed at the lake and we'd have to return the way we came! Since it was raining, we decided to turn back and tackle the slow road before it got any worse. The car got a needed wash at the YC on our return.

Jun 19, 2011

Photos: 27

TAHITI

Jun 17, 2011

Photos: 33

Rangiroa, Tuamotus

Jun 6, 2011

Photos: 33

Blue Lagoon, Rangiroa

We motored the 15 miles to a nice picinc - getaway area that needs to be done in settled weather. We had cloudy skies on the day we explored, so the lagoon color was subdued; but we could see the many bommies (coral heads) clearly. We had to walk our dinghy to get inside the lagoon, which is inside the atoll. We enjoyed a potluck dinner with Slip Away and Loon III.

Jun 1, 2011

Photos: 15

Manihi Atoll, Tuamotus

May 18, 2011

Photos: 40

Picnic - MANIHI Atoll

May 12, 2011

Photos: 35

Passage Making 2011

Apr 23, 2011

Photos: 37

More Honolulu

Apr 20, 2011

Photos: 12

More Maui- A special retreat

It was so good to catch up with our old Port Townsend friends John and Melinda and see their beautiful Hawaiian getaway. They've put in a lot of work to make their home a special place in the Maui jungle!

Apr 19, 2011

Photos: 21

Matt Kiteboarding - Hawaii

Waikai & Kailua, Oahu

Apr 18, 2011

Photos: 12

Projects, Honolulu

A collection of photos of our various projects done during our stay here in Honolulu. This is not all-inclusive!

Apr 13, 2011

Photos: 35

Around Oahu

Feb 18, 2011

Photos: 50

Florida Visit - Dec. 2010

It was great seeing family and friends. Sue's Mom and sister Mary came from MI. It was cold, but not as cold as up North! Amber, Ashley and Taylor were a great help in the galley fixing many a delicious meal.

Jan 4, 2011

Photos: 33

Hawaii Yacht Club

Dec 3, 2010

Photos: 22

Oahu

Nov 24, 2010

Photos: 9

Maui

Oct 19, 2010

Photos: 30

Hawaii, the Big Island

Oct 14, 2010

Photos: 32

Random pictures - Taiohae

Sep 6, 2010

Photos: 13

Nuku Hiva--Hakaui--Dinner and the hike up the western ridge

The traditional Marquesan meal of breadftuit, goat . and fish was not eaten in the traditional way with your hands (except for Mai).. The hike was a birthday wish come true for Sue....thanks Maria....we wouldn't have done it without you!

Aug 28, 2010

Photos: 22

To Hakatea (Daniel's Bay) and Vaipo Waterfall hike

Aug 26, 2010

Photos: 21

Matt's Arrival

We flew from Tampa to L.A., to Tahiti, where we got a room at the Airport Hotel....a hike up the hill with our luggage! Our 6:30am flight to Nuku Hiva went smooth. What a nice welcoming committee!! Thanks Laurent and Laetitia for meeting us and packing such a wonderful picnic lunch! What a surprise to have Dave and Sherry along too!

Aug 19, 2010

Photos: 22

Nuku Hiva, Marquesas

The nightly traditional dancing competitions between the different villages was one of the highlights for us. The music, singing and dancing was quite entertaining. These are just a few of the pictures that came out with the poor lighting available.

Aug 3, 2010

Photos: 12

Walkabouts

From Taiohae, we walked the trail to the ridge at the souteast side of the bay with Stephanie, her 2yr. old daughter, from Casa Terre, and Jan & Rich from Slip Away. It's been unusually dry, so the hiking was easy, and rivers/streams non existent or very low. Another day, Sue walked to Colette Bay, just over the ridge to the west with the crews from Blauwe Pinquin and Comfort Zone. Seeing and meeting Moana was like meeting a true authentic Chip n Dale! His tatoo's were administered by his older brothers, and they start giving them at a young age.

Jul 29, 2010

Photos: 19

Baie de Taioa; Anse Hakatea , (Daniel's Bay)

We can walk around to where six families live in the Hakaui hamlet, and from there walk the trail to the waterfall. Or, at high tide you can navigate the river to save a half hours walk...

Jul 20, 2010

Photos: 30

Taiohae Bay, Nuka Hiva, French Polynesia

We did not have fun beating into the waves to get here, especially knowing we couldn't use the engine because of our water coolant problems. The dolphin greeting as we neared the bay was wonderful. Luckily M was able to finally fix our problem a mile out....just in time for the fluky winds coming into the bay. Landfalls are sure welcome after any passage!

Jul 5, 2010

Photos: 32

Jon's visit and Toau

Jon flew in and out of Fakarava Atoll. We motorsailed the 35 miles to the 'false pass' of Anse Amyot on the NW corner of Toau Atoll, and spent a week there. Our friends Soggy Paws and Nakia were there, and we met Whiskers and Whoosh also before returning to Fakarava for more snorkeling and diving. Credit for some of our included pictures goes to Jon and Dave (Soggy Paws, underwater pictures). Weather has been benign and calm and a pleasure!

Jun 18, 2010

Photos: 36

Fakarava, Tuomotus

We entered the atoll at the south pass(Tumakohua). We explored the ruins of the old village of Tetamanu. There's a dive shop that is operating there, and just a few local people.

May 31, 2010

Photos: 25

MAKEMO- Tuamotus

May 16, 2010

Photos: 35

Black Pearl Farm

Bill from Visions of Johanna arranged a visit to Benoits' pearl farm operation...we walked the few miles to be picked up by boat.

Apr 17, 2010

Photos: 22

Taravai, Gambiers

Apr 15, 2010

Photos: 10

Mount Duff hike

The view from the top was incredible....and the exercise much needed!

Apr 13, 2010

Photos: 24

Gambier Islands

Apr 7, 2010

Photos: 32

Pitcairn

Our one day visit was too short; we would have loved to spend more time. But we're thankful we got even that! Everyone we met was friendly and helpful. There happened to be 6 sailboats there; 5 of us left on the same day. a We all left with plenty of veggies and

Apr 3, 2010

Photos: 68

Easter Is

Rapa Nui is roughly triangular in shape, with 3 prominent extinct volcanos in each corner; 14miles long, 7mi. wide with a circumference of 34 miles.

Mar 15, 2010

Photos: 76

On Passage

These are random shots of our scenery while 'out there' ; a few different weather and wave conditions. And I'm still in awe of the many variations of sunrise and sunsets!

Mar 12, 2010

Photos: 44

Los Tuneles

Feb 26, 2010

Photos: 21

Isabella, Galapagos

It was so good to finally see our friends Dave and Sherry on Soggy Paws again.....we hope to sail together for the next few months. We met Bill, Johanna & Graham of 'Visions of Johanna'; they were in their last preparations for their departure to Easter Island... we can get updates on their progress on the am SSB net, and we hope to meet up again somewhere 'down the line'....

Feb 25, 2010

Photos: 27

Santa Cruz, Galapagos

Santa Cruz was colonized at the end of the 1920's by a group of Norwegians; their dream of a fish processing plant did not succeed, so some of them resettled in the highlands to concentrate on agriculture. Puerto Ayora is the largest tourist destination in the islands, Academy Bay is famous for the landing of Charles Darwin's "Beagle." To get here by airplane, tourists arrive via nearby Baltra, a small island used by the USA in World War II to land troops to protect the Panama Canal.

Feb 20, 2010

Photos: 18

San Cristobal, Galapagos

These islands have had a number of names over time; one you might remember is Chatham. We took the water taxi on a rainy day to visit Centro de Interpretation. It explains the natural and human history of the islands, which was not a pretty story. I had not realize how mankind has once again raped and changed things so.

Feb 17, 2010

Photos: 25

En route to the Galapagos Islands

Our 9 day trip from Balboa Panama to San Cristobal, Galapagos found all kinds of weather....but no strong storms. We had a few repairs to do underway, but all in all it was a wonderful passage. Getting used to very little sleep again was probably our biggest adjustment....so we're very thankful for the great experience.

Feb 10, 2010

Photos: 23

Casco Viejo

We had a most enjoyabe visit to Casco Viejo with Debi and Victor (s/v Serenity); not knowing it was the last day of the 5 day jazz fest. The old French Quarter is there...a tribute to the first builders of the canal. The ruins and old unkept buildings reminded us of the many 'old towns' we've seen throughout Latin America.

Jan 17, 2010

Photos: 32

More Randomness

Dec 29, 2009

Photos: 24

RANDOM PICS

A few random shots...with a few sewing projects I've done. A fellow cruiser has been helping us with our battery and sustainable charging issues for our large battery bank. We used his chain hoist to lift the 3 185lb. batteries out and back into the boat....piece of cake!

Nov 23, 2009

Photos: 43

ANCHORAGE at Las Brisas and BALBOA YACHT CLUB

We were anchored next to sv Luka. Tomek is known for his solo non stop circumnavigation east to west "the wrong way around", with his dog. We were wondering why he was such a barker. On shore he was just fine! Info at: http://zeglarz.net/English/index1.html

Sep 29, 2009

Photos: 24

Back to Las Perlas

The big difference in the tides is a change for us. Seeing the beaches and rocks exposed, then totally disappear is amazing. The amounts of debri and garbage in the water in certain areas is disheartening. We need a close lookout then.

Sep 7, 2009

Photos: 52

N Perlas Island

We tried to fly the spinnaker, but the wind didn't cooperate for very long. We motored the 32miles to the northern Perlas Islands; anchoring the first night at Isla Pachea, moving on to Isla Contadora, where we rented golf carts to see the island. (This is where the Shah of Iran went into exile, and is the most populated in the island group.) Another few days at Isla Chapera (where they filmed the TV series Survivor) and then back to the mainland. We caught our first fish on the way back, a jack, and saw more whales; whale sharks this time. David took some great pictures with the telephoto lens. There are more than 200 islands in the Perlas', so we plan on exploring more when we take care of shore side duties (laundry, provisioning, internet.)

Aug 12, 2009

Photos: 48

CanalTransit Aug. 8

It was a motor trip across Lake Gatun; through Culebra Cut; on to the first set of locks going down (Pedro Miguel); then the last two locks at Miraflores. We were happy for an 'uneventful' day, as we've heard many stories about what 'could' happen. We had a wonderful crew: Thanks Art, Dar, Fleur and David!!

Aug 8, 2009

Photos: 32

Canal Transit Aug. 7

Our rainy start turned out to be a great evening; the skies cleared, and the night was cool for our sleep in Gatun Lake.

Aug 7, 2009

Photos: 11

More Netherlands

We took the train to the beach at Scheveningen, and then on to Den Haag. There were so many 'kodak moments' all throughout The Netherlands....I enjoyed our travels.

Jul 5, 2009

Photos: 58

Alkmaar & Amsterdam

We took the train to the Saturday Cheese Market in Alkmaar, then stopped for a walk around Amsterdam.

Jul 3, 2009

Photos: 28

First two days with Ty...Utrecht

We hadn't seen Ty for almost a year....we were so happy to see him and finally meet his girlfriend Amber. They were the best tour guides ever; we biked, trained, bused and walked...the week went too fast! The countryside is beautiful; the canals unique and picturesque. We had great weather; it only rained the last day we were there....

Jul 1, 2009

Photos: 19

Venice

To have a whole city built on the water....we really enjoyed exploring the canals and town. We kept getting 'lost' and not finding our way like we can usually navigate, which was frustrating in the heat. The town is showing its age, the buildings not kept up to original standards, but the ambiance and flavor was enjoyable.

Jun 28, 2009

Photos: 52

Cinque Terre

“The Cinque Terre is a National Park and territory protected by UNESCO. This zone is characterised by the presence of typical steep slopes cultivated with vines thanks to terraces, unique witness of the transformation of the territory carried out by mans hard work.The suggestive kind of coast falling sheer to the sea, with cliffs which are often vertical, alternated with small creeks and enchanting beaches among rocks, with depths rich in fish, make this territory a real Natural "work of art". whc.unesco.org/nwhc/pages/doc/mainf3.htm: the UNESCO web site” We stayed in the town Monterosso, and walked or took the train to the other 'villages'. It was my favorite place in Italy.

Jun 26, 2009

Photos: 44

Florence

We stayed at Casa Rovai, a charming and quiet b&b in the heart of Florence with six spacious rooms in a large, quiet apartment located on the first floor of an historical palace (no elevator) located in the heart of Florence. We walked everywhere....and put some miles on!

Jun 21, 2009

Photos: 26

Rome

Jun 19, 2009

Photos: 24

London

Our first stop..we were very fortunate to stay with 'friends of friends' who were a big help explaining the public transport system.....because we 'tubed' it and played tourist big time. We appreciate Jo and Meg's hospitality! We took in the buildings, history, mass of people/tourists....and slept well after going all day!

Jun 15, 2009

Photos: 29

Shelter Bay Marina

The following info is from SBM website: Shelter Bay Marina is located on the site of Fort Sherman, a former US military base. In 1999 the United States Army turned over base to the Panamanian government. An opportunity for development and expansion of maritime facilities became available, and Shelter Bay Marina was made a reality. Fort Sherman was constructed in 1910 to provide robust defensive batteries for protecting the Gatun Locks of the Panama Canal. In 1917, a small, well protected bay, was dredged to accommodate mine layers and the ferry that operated between the fort and the then bustling city of Colon. Later, after the Second World War, the mission was changed to provide jungle training for the US military services. As a result Fort Sherman and the nearby Chagres River remain untouched and provide some of the best canopy jungle and wildlife tourism in Panama.

Mar 12, 2009

Photos: 18

Carl Linne

We were line handlers (Caribbean to Pacific) through the Panama Canal aboard the Carl Linne. This 2003, 106' mega yacht is a custom Dutch built cutter/sloop. Lots of teak and stainless to keep polished and scrubbed! Greg, the Captain, handled her incredibly well, and the crew, Steve and Gabi, were wonderful. We've also included pictures of some of the other yachts nearby.

Feb 5, 2009

Photos: 33

Canal Transit

We had a good time being 'line handlers' aboard sv Jubilant from the Caribbean to the Pacific. The first set of locks ( 3 at Gatun) are transited at night. After a few hours of sleep in Lake Gatun, a different advisor boards to get us through the last 3. (Pedro Miguel and Miraflores). A good feeling when you see the Pacific.

Jan 17, 2009

Photos: 48

Jungle Walks

Jan 7, 2009

Photos: 24

2008 Holiday Pictures

It was great to see family and friends

Dec 26, 2008

Photos: 21

El Joshua

Bernard Moitessier (1925 - 1994) "I am a citizen of the most beautiful nation on earth. A nation whose laws are harsh yet simple, a nation that never cheats, which is immense and without borders, where life is lived in the present. In this limitless nation, this nation of wind, light, and peace, there is no other ruler besides the sea." "My real log is written in the sea and sky; the sails talking with the rain and the stars amid the sounds of the sea, the silences full of secret things between my boat and me, like the times I spent as a child listening to the forest talk." (from "The Long Way")

Nov 17, 2008

Photos: 20

Niadup

Nov 7, 2008

Photos: 8

Snug Harbor

Nov 4, 2008

Photos: 16

San Ignacio

Nov 1, 2008

Photos: 21

Rio Nasbai

We went for a dinghy ride with Damon from Bruadair up the river. The water level was up as it had been raining recently. You could see the shore erosion. I wonder if they'll have to move the graves as the river encroaches. They build small lean to's or huts, and leave a few cooking utensils. Some have a sign to note the birth/death dates. We didn't walk around, as the Kuna believe this is sacred ground.

Oct 30, 2008

Photos: 16

Ailigandi

Oct 29, 2008

Photos: 21

Mamitupu

Oct 25, 2008

Photos: 19

Isla Pinos

We sailed from Cartgena, Columbia, to Isla Pinos. A clean, tidy traditional village.

Oct 22, 2008

Photos: 20

Crow's Nest

There's water view from almost 360 degrees from the house, as it's on an island. The house is still under construction, and being 8000sq. feet, it's quite a process, as he brings all supplies up the hill with his Jeep. He has internet and TV!

Oct 7, 2008

Photos: 19

The town of Baru

We took our dinghy's on a scenic ride to the town of Baru with Valentina (Sonny & Kay), David (Bruadair) & Greg (Wet Bar). A good size town, typical poor, but friendly people.

Oct 4, 2008

Photos: 25

Convento de Popa

We played tourist with the crew from "Leu Cat" (California), and "Kathleen Love" (London, England). The 'Convent of the Stern' was named after the hill's apparent similarity to a ship's back end. The other name for La Popa is La Candelaria Convent, founded by the Augustine Fathers in 1606. This is the highest point in Cartagena, hence we took many pictures of the views.

Sep 30, 2008

Photos: 17

SAN FELIPE FORT

Construction began in 1536, and took over a hundred years to complete. It was named after King Phillip IV of Spain. The history and engineering of the fort are amazing. We had a guided tour with Duran Duran.

Sep 30, 2008

Photos: 19

Around town (Cartagena)

More pictures of the area

Sep 19, 2008

Photos: 31

Club Nautico

A few pictures of our home turf for the last month.

Sep 9, 2008

Photos: 15

Cartagena, Columbia

Cartagena was founded in 1533. We walked the walled city, old town...and just snapped pictures. We hope to eventually take a tour- there's so much to see. The town is very clean. The narrow streets with historic, old buildings are a pleasure to walk.

Sep 6, 2008

Photos: 27

Green Island, San Blas

Also known as Kanlildup. Another anchorage with good shelter. The government charts are not reliable; you need good visual navigation to get into most places. We were given a CD that has the latest guide book charts on it...it has been spot on so far. It makes it so much easier for us--but we always have a lookout too.

Aug 26, 2008

Photos: 12

Cangombia

We enjoyed another anchorage here with Sherry's daughter Nicki & friend Phil before they had to fly back to FL...they went to Povenir to catch the commuter plane. It was great to spend time with them!

Aug 25, 2008

Photos: 12

Nargana - Ty leaving

This is where we said goodbye to Ty, but not before we took the river trip up the Rio Diablo the day before. He had an early flight---there's only one a day. The no see um's (chitra's) were horrible by the airstrip- we were not prepared!

Aug 25, 2008

Photos: 17

Rio Diablo, San Blas

We took our dinghys upstream...the birds and lizards were great. It was so clean--no trash along the shore thank goodness. It rained heavy on our way out

Aug 24, 2008

Photos: 16

Coco Bandero Cays, San Blas

Aug 22, 2008

Photos: 14

E. Holandes- the Swimming Pool

We spent 4 nights here with Ty, then came back for a few more before we left for Cartagena.

Aug 18, 2008

Photos: 18

Lemon Cays, San Blas

We spent one night in W. Lemons, then we met SP in the E. Lemons and spent 3nights. There's a lot to explore underwater here.

Aug 15, 2008

Photos: 17

Porvenir, Kuna Yala, San Blas

Coming from the west, Porvenir is the place to check into Kuna Yala, and pay an $8.00 visa fee good for 3 months. The Kuna's number around 55,000 or about 10% of what thery were before the invasion of the Spanish conquistadors. The mainstay of the economy are coconuts, which are bought by colorful Colombian trading boats. The Kuna also export lobsters, king crabs, and octopus...they are excellent skin-divers. The women sew and sell molas, Panama's most famous handicraft.

Aug 13, 2008

Photos: 7

Chichime, San Blas

This was our first anchorage in the land of the Kuna's . Some areas of the San Blas follow the traditional customs, while others are more 'americanized'

Aug 11, 2008

Photos: 12

Miraflores Locks, Panama Canal

A set of 2 locks, they are the tallest of the canal's locks. Close to Panama City where we met Tyson, and went back to Infini in Colon.

Aug 7, 2008

Photos: 14

Linton, Panama

We enjoyed the protected anchorage here. There's a lot to do and see. We stayed two weeks, and could have stayed longer! We stopped here again with Ty on the way to the San Blas.

Jul 29, 2008

Photos: 23

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