After a fast sail of 300NM across from Tonga to the island of Vanua Balavu in the Lau Group, the fleet arrived to the beautiful bay off Lomaloma where they set anchor and awaited the officers from Health, Customs and Immigration to clear each boat into the country.
As part of the World ARC programme government representatives from Suva are flown to Vanua Balavu to conduct the official entry procedures. The next rendezvous is in Musket Cove located on the Western side of Fiji in a couple of weeks’ time. By organising special entry on the Eastern side of the country enables the fleet to spend their cruising time in Fiji exploring the Lau Group and main island from East to West.
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The island of Vanua Balavu is a large atoll and entrance through the reef has to approach by daylight. Entering to the south east through the Tongan Passage brings you to a vista of green hills and golden sandy beaches backed by palm trees.
The local villagers are all extremely welcoming with all the gardens and public areas kept incredibly neat and clean. The village is made up of simple but brightly coloured one story houses and there is a shop, church and beautiful walks high up above the hills overlooking the anchorage.
There are numerous islands to visit in Fiji so many of the boats are starting to move on and take advantage of idyllic locations such as The Bay of Islands.
We look forward to hearing about all their adventures in Musket Cove where the programme begins with the Welcome Drinks Reception on Wednesday 10 July