Hibiscus III, Bay of Islands, Fiji 9 November 2010

Time for another blog – back in Suva with supercrew Ben and Sisi onboard for intensive training about what’s involved in messing about with boats. Sisi on the wheelWe’ve left Wayne in Solodamu in capable hands although he reports little progress on his mast repairs as he’s spending too much time eating and hanging out on land (he had a lucky escape on his way to Solodamu and nearly lost his foremast but no injuries and all fixable).

Had a great sunny week in Solodamu last week, boys disappearing as soon as we dropped anchor and turning up the next day in someone else’s clean clothes after being fed, entertained and washed. Jack has been attempting to catch all of Solodamu’s freshwater prawns with press-ganged support and “assisting” the ladies with fishing duties. Me and the littlest boys have been finding out all about “mini” beasts so the rugby 7’s in Vunisea turned into a successful bug hunt as well as plenty of icecream, Dan’s watermelons and pineapples, bbq and entertainment. Dan and his watermelons

Suli, Sisi and JohnWe’ve been clocking up the miles between Suva and Solodamu, and have had a few more of Solodamu sailing – and finally Suli after years of good excuses not to sail with us!! Mo

It’s been great to meet more and more people who are supportive of Solodamu’s project and who are getting actively involved – good on John, Sisi and Ben taking on the crew training and qualification challenge! Kia Kaha. Crew training

Still waiting to hear from Ratbag and Kiritea and hope that they’re safely on their way to join us.

Arghs rain - time to shut the hatches! Ali