Tahiti

In October we were off to celebrate Amy’s birthday and catch up with her Uncle Dave, who was sailing in the
tropical south Pacific islands of French Polynesia. We arrived in Papeete, the exotic capital and gateway to the
territory. Here romantic sunsets are routine and turquoise waves break onto the colorful reefs that protect the
tranquil lagoons of bright-emerald waters and white coral sand beaches. As far south of the equator as Hawaii is
north, Tahiti is halfway between California and Australia. From Papeete we sailed to Moorea whose jagged green
velvet peaks soar out of the ocean and are everything you would imagine a South Seas island to be. The
pinnacles of this island inspired the mythical “Bali Hai” that was based on James Michener’s book. After a few
days of exploring the island and diving the ring reef we sailed on to Raiatea. The meaning of the name is “far away
heaven” and “sky with soft light.” This is the second largest Tahitian isle and was the center of religion and culture
over 1000 years ago. It was rst named Havai’i after the homeland of the ancient Polynesians and is the most
sacred island in the South Pacific. After a short stay in Raiatea we caught a high speed ferry for the 100 mile
journey back to Papeete and our flight back to CA. Our stay was much too short but we came away with some
wonderful memories and new friends Bob and Brandie, who also sailed with us. As in the past Uncle Dave was
the stalwart Captain who guided us on another tropical adventure.