6-4
Yesterday we made the relatively mellow transit from Honokohau harbor northward to Kawaihae "harbor." This area is more like a calm patch of water behind some rocks, without actual slips to tie into. However, it's surprisingly calm and rather peaceful, compared to the hustle and bustle of the tourist attractions in Honokohau. No showers or facilities for boaters around, but the few restaurants here are pretty darn good. I was treated to a fantastic steak, shrimp, and cheesecake dinner last night that I won't soon forget!
On the transit up here, we brought a few local friends who wanted to experience sailing for the first time. Unfortunately, one person instead was treated to experiencing seasickness for the first time! Luckily, we were able to drop her off in the Kukio beach / Kua bay area along the way, and she got a ride home. This area was gorgeous with white sand beaches and electric blue water, yet also had lava rocks and coral in about 10 feet of water. It took some finesse to keep Shenanigans steady while getting situated in the dinghy. All in all, everything worked out and we continued to Kawaihae.
The wind was uncharacteristically flukey, so we had to do some motoring after the spinnaker refused to stay full. Yet we were able to arrive before nightfall and anchor snugly.
The other boaters here are very friendly and helpful. Advice on the best place to anchor, where to leave our dinghy when going to shore, and how to deal with the developing thunderstorms were all topics discussed freely. We even met a guy originally from Ventura, which shows it really is a small world.
One of our buddies along for the trip informed us that this area used to hold human sacrifices at the local heiau (house of worship) and the remains were fed to the many, many sharks here. She said it's not uncommon to see tiger or hammerhead around here...and the local charter captain says the blacktips breed their young in the shallows. So it seems I won't be scrubbing the boat bottom until our next stop in Lana'i, unless I bring my speargun down with me!!
We leave tonight around midnight to cross the Alenuihaha. The forecast is for a tame 3-5 foot swell with 17-19 knots from the east, which is exactly what I was hoping for.
We decided that we are going to skip Molokini and go straight to Lana'i. Apparently tour boats are very aggressive to outside boaters, plus the winds pick up mid-day and make for rough snorkeling. Lana'i and Moloka'i will offer plenty of gorgeous snorkel opportunities for us, so no sweat.
Off to Manele bay!
By the way, you know you've lived in Hawai'i for awhile when it's 79 degrees and you're thinking about grabbing a sweater...
As a beginner who has sailed with friends on Wet Wed.s I still find ocean sailing to be intimidating, that is why I am blown away by what you have accomplished. BTW, what a great blog written by Dani! It is first rate and gives those of us less brave a way to vicariously join in your adventure. Carpe Diem
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