Cleared out of Tonga by the friendly Customs and Immigration official in Ha’apai, Oso points her bow southwestwards towards New Zealand. By evening, the twin volcanoes of Hunga Tonga and Hunga Ha’apai, source of the 2022 tsunami that devastated parts of Tonga, hove into view.
We chose to depart as a wave of reinforced trade winds lifted north over Tonga. The resulting 15-20kt breeze is perfect for sailing, but the sea state leftover from the previous night’s stronger winds provides a quick reintroduction to the reality of ocean sailing. One hand for the boat!
All’s well onboard.
Day One
22 08.6S 177 14.9W
213nm (One full day plus a 2 hour head start)
