It's Hello from Moorea

by Nancy Knudsen, Cruising Editor on 29 Jul 2007 The big news for this week is that the 40th Sydney International Boat Show is just about to happen – and the Boating Stage is a 'must see' each afternoon. Our Sail-World Team has been working hard towards an exciting and informative Strictly Sailing Stage. This issue details the daily programme – everything from marine safety and weather with Ken Batt to cruising tales and fashion shows. If you're ANYWHERE near Sydney - Be there!

On Blackwattle we've reached tranquil Moorea, or 'Golden Lizard', just a stone's sail from Tahiti. So close to Papeete, yet the island has managed to keep its lazy pace and faraway feel. We're in Baie d'Opunohu, with volcanic mountains leaping almost vertically beside the lagoon on one side, and in the other direction white surf breaks over the fringing reef. It's a sparkling day, the best snorkeling site on the island is five metres from Blackwattle, and we think we've just found heaven

There's an opportunity to join the first Hinchinbrook Regatta and improve your sailing by joining a tall ship as crew, and oddly enough, and opportunity to 'adopt a lighthouse' – not in Australia (I wish), but in the Philippines!

Several cruising tales – 'Letter from the Med' is back again, and destinations as far apart as Turkey(The Mariner Boating people) and Tahiti(Blackwattle) are featured.

Two logs of more adventurous tales – that of Adrian Flanagan, attempting to solo navigate over the top of Russia this summer, and the Sea Stallion, a reconstructed Viking sailing ship makes its way south to reach Scotland.

Best products for the week are easily stowed inflatable fenders, and finally – some stories of the yachts of the rich and famous – Tom Perkins' Maltese Falcon, and Peter Halmos' probably doomed Legacy, marooned in wetlands in Miami Keys in Florida for nearly two years

Read on, enjoy, and
Sail safe