By Nicole
Wow, another week down already? For some reason, I thought time would move by sluggishly out here, where the scenery never changes (sea + sky) and one day is pretty much like the next. Maybe it's because we're fully entrenched in our watch schedules and routine, or maybe all the reading we're doing is sucking down the time. Either way, the last week zipped by.
As we inch closer to our destination, we're starting to feel a twinge of excitement. Not only because we're going to see land for the first time in a month, but because of what else awaits us in French Polynesia. No, not mai tais. Old friends.
Back when we were still dreaming about cruising, Aaron and I took a marine diesel engine class one dark, rainy Seattle winter. Twice a week for a few months, we slogged to class, held aboard an old Alaskan ferry, where we became friends with another aspiring cruiser named Richard. Two years ago, Richard and Brian came to our bon voyage party at the Sloop Tavern where we hugged goodbye and joked that we should all meet up in the South Pacific. Well guess what? Their boat, s/v Osprey, is enroute to the Marquesas from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico at this very moment!
Remember our good friend Erlin from s/v Ventured? Of Belvenache fame? Well, he hopped aboard a speedy catamaran and is barreling toward Hiva Oa right now too. We sadly parted ways back in Manzanillo, Mexico 14 months ago, and we can't wait to break out the rum for a reunion toast. The boat Nyon, who we met in La Cruz, Mexico, is on its way across the Pacific as well.
S/V Estrellita, who you'll remember we cruised with in Canada, San Diego and the Baja, are waiting (patiently?) for us in the Tuamotus (the next stop after the Marquesas). Eeeeeee! I am absolutely giddy about spending time with them again (maybe challenging them to another onboard ping-pong match?). You have no idea. Although we email a couple times a week, we haven't seen each other since our teary goodbye in the Sea of Cortez back in December 2011.
As of right now, we are about 400 miles east of the island of Hiva Oa, our first stop in the Marquesas. With any luck (fair winds and favorable seas, please), we'll be clinking Hinano beers with friends old and new very soon. Until then, I hope the next week flies by like the last (although counting down the days is probably like watching a pot while it boils).
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I often use the "Click here for our current location" button, but now it just reveal a tiny white square with the letter S in the middle surrounded completely by a sea of blue. One has to 'zoom out' several times for Mexico to come into view in the far right corner of the screen. Keep up your spirits. Anticipating reunions with fellow sailors seems to be working to ward off the boredom and solitude of "sea + sky".
ReplyDeleteWishing you a continued safe 'crossing' - a very brave venture!
Amazing! A month at sea - I love your adventures, and that you will soon be reuniting with so many friends. Fair winds!!
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