Northern Fiji with Zophia
The next day we took local transportation again, but this
time in the opposite direction to the “Natural Water Slide”. When we arrived,
there was a large Fijian family there. They were having a great time and
happily showed us how it works best (you block the water with a few people and
then let a small torrent go when you’re ready to slide).
After grabbing some provisions in Lomolomo, we sailed north-east
to Budd Reef a few hours away. As usual, we had to sail upwind a bit but it was
a nice sail to the anchorage at Yavu island. The next morning we all snorkelled
in the amazing reef between Yavu and Yanuca islands.
After lunch we motored a bit more NE to Cobia Island, an extinct volcano. We enjoyed bonfires on the beach and a scenic hike almost to the top of the island. The caldera is flooded with sea water, and provides a beautiful scene.
After a few relaxing days, we headed to Viani Bay on the SE
tip of Vanua Levu. The bay was quiet and relaxing. Cheryl and Karen, on SV
Interlude V, told us about Dolphin Bay Dive Resort and we quickly made plans to
spend the day there. We were picked up at 7 AM and taken a few bays over to the
resort. We had coffee, tea and cinnamon rolls. The while Malcolm dove the
Rainbow Reef with Roland,
Malcolm returned to the resort between dives for coffee, tea
and homemade cookies. Zophia and I went out with him for his second dive, but
while he dove, we snorkelled all around the Cabbage Patch.
We returned to the resort for an excellent lunch, time in
the hammock, massages followed by happy hour and a candlelit dinner on the
beach.
Zophia’s return flight was from Savusavu on Sunday, so we
reluctantly left Viani Bay on Friday. The weather was grey and rainy and,
although the wind was cooperating by coming from behind, the seas were sloppy
and very uncomfortable. After about 7 hours, we picked up a mooring in a grey,
drizzling Savusavu and made plans for a chocolate milkshake and Chinese food
for dinner. We were late to the celebration of Fiji’s Olympic gold medal win in
rugby! The locals were jubilant and the following Monday was proclaimed a
national holiday!