Strong southwesterly winds -- that weren't in the forecast when we left Minerva Reef -- are thwarting our arrival at Opua, New Zealand. We were just 280 miles away yesterday afternoon, when the winds forced us to tack to the SSE. We'll spend the next two days (two days!!) making virtually no forward progress as we position ourselves for the SE winds that are predicted to arrive on Tuesday.
Frustrated. Tired. Salty. Ready for a large order of fish & chips and a giant salad. Four more days?
Southwesterly winds
Rear their salty heads and howl
So close yet so far
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So sorry you guys! We also got some strong headwinds in the homestretch. Hoping things take a turn for the better and you arrive soon! Best, Bella Vita
ReplyDeleteNo worries.
ReplyDeleteAotoearoa playing hard to get -
will be conquered in the end.
Kia kaha Bella Star!
My God, you're composing haiku in the middle of screaming southwesterlies?
ReplyDeleteHell, I'm impressed. I can't even do that on dry land.
Well, hang in there. Looks like you'll be in port for Nicole's birthday on the 17th, anyway.
Best wishes,
John V.
Hi Aaron and Nicole,
ReplyDeleteCruising the web looking at HC33’s, I stumbled upon your blog and was reading it last night, until I was bleary eyed….great read….well done….and such a great cruise!
I see by Spotwalla you made landfall in NZ. That has to feel pretty awesome.
Bella Star is a fine little yacht by any standard and now has mucho street, er ,,water cred, as does her crew.
Cindy and I were in NZ for a few weeks and it wasn’t nearly enough time, absolutely loved it. Great wineries, Able Tasman Kayak trip, etc,etc.
We were ready to move there but turns out …we are too “old”….
Hope you two are able to spend some time there.
Im subscribed and will look for your updates.
Im sure you have plenty of resources, but can provide Seattle based support, if needed.
Warm Regards
Rich ( from Callison days)