Into the Ha'apai - In Photos - The First Visit

After the capital of Tongatapu we headed north to the Ha'apai group.  It is similar to the Tuamotus yet does not seem to be much visited by cruisers compared to the busy Vavu'a group to the north.

We only had a month immigration visa out of Tongatapu so we were a bit time constrained on this first visit to the group.

Johnathan up the mast guiding us in between the reefs

His view down to Fluenta.

Time for a drink Island-style

Time for a drink Island-style

Time for a drink Island-style with our new friends from Kitenga

Anchored off Don MacIntyre's HQ on Nomuka Iki.  We met Don briefly when we were in Tonga four years ago.  He has either been on an adventure or sponsoring adventures for the last few decades.  Interesting guy.

Unfortunately Don was not home as he is rather busy running the Golden Globe Race.

Canada Day and, as usual, Victoria and her helper have been busy.

Canada Day and, as usual, Victoria and her helper have been busy.

Canada Day and, as usual, Victoria and her helper have been busy.

Tongan cupcake.

Not all beaches and parties though.  Benjamin doing French.

but still time for lego

close reaching between the islands in Ha'apai.

and Trickle is launched in Uoleva.

A great anchorage at Uonukuhifo (Lobster Island).

We actually found a message in a bottle.

Liz's yoga helper.

The great sandspit between Uonukuhifofo and Uonukuhahaki Islands

The north end of Uonukahahaki Island to do some kite surfing

Bonfire time

Marshmallows !

and of course some stick fighting at sunset

Benjamin fell and headbutted one of the big winches.  Lots and lots of blood ("Dad, my blood is leaking out").  Cleaned up here.

Benjamin showing off his steristrips.  It was reassuring that the mum on Kitenga is a nurse so we had some oversight.

Great big anchorage and hardly any boats in the whole group yet this catamaran decided to anchor right beside us.

A rainbow runner for the fridge.  Tasty.

Heading to the Pangai market.  A little sparse compared to Tongatapu.

Victoria and I waiting in Pangai for Liz to get back from shopping. Not very busy in town.