The pass into Manihi was running 6 knots! Timing of slack is of strategic importance.

Fernando and Alma showed us how black pearls are grown.

Xavier (the retired French CINCPACFLT) showed us the Sailmail repeater that we used for sending our e-mails.

Sue called home on Skype whenever we were ashore.

'Julia Max' relaxes in this tropical atoll anchorage.

Palm trees lined the atoll of Manihi.

Fernando showed us how the coconut tree was used for food, baskets, hats, and lodging.

We spent over a week with Fernando, the local chief.

Coconut crabs are land crabs that were prevalent through the South Pacific.

Black-tipped reef sharks were the everpresent puppy dogs.

This hermit crab was 3 inches across.

In Rangaroa we spent two nights ashore at Hotel Kia Ora.

George goes native with Alma's help.

Cheryl and Ivan from sv Thumbs Up enjoyed dinner at the Kia Ora.

Sue enjoys biking on Rangaroa.