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Fiji is an industrious republic, a part of the British
Commonwealth (occasionally expelled for undemocratic practices) with lots of
resorts and beautiful beaches and small islands.
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The Republic of Fiji has 2 main islands (the other is Vanua Levu)
and scores of medium and small ones. Viti Levu is the site of Suva, the
capital, and first destination for many cruisers. The population is half
Fijian and half Indian, a source of ongoing conflict within the country. They
have learned bureaucracy well and after 24 hours of squalls leading to our
landfall, the multiple forms seemed to be one big nuisance. We took a
river tour and were introduced to village life and the importance of
education in their lives. Sugar cane is king, their principal export
covers much of the island. |
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About 30 miles south of Suva lies the Astrolabe reef with crystal clear
waters, lots of coral heads or 'bommies' just below the surface to catch
the unaware. We anchored for 1 day at Dravuni, and then ducked into Kavala Bay
on the island of Kadavu to avoid 25 knot winds. There we met a
wonderful Fijian family who shared several meals and a neighborhood kava
party with us. They live simply, are quite religious, and freely
share what they have. In return, we fixed radios, a stove and sewing
machine for the village. We have remained in touch through mail ever
since. The children, unused to white skin, would stroke Bob's arm saying 'palangi',
their term for 'white man' |
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The home to the Musket Cove Resort and marina, we had a blast
there! They have all items needed by cruisers, access to the main island
by ferry, and we all felt welcome by Dick Smith, the resort owner.
During the week before the Musket Cove to Port Vila Regatta, scores
of cruisers met, drank, partied, went on diving trips, snorkeled, and got
ready for a fun trip in company with new friends. The Musket
Cove Marina continues to run this annual regatta, to the delight of
many cruisers. |
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The Regatta then headed on to Port Vila, Vanuatu. |
