Jerry arrived in Papeete on Sunday, 29 April, and brought the Florida sunshine with him. Beautiful weather since then.
We did a drive around Tahiti, stopping to see a number of interesting sites.
After extensive re-provisioning in a first class French supermarket, we left Tahiti on the 2nd May, a little later in the day than we wanted. The result was that we arrived at the pass through the reef in Moorea in darkness! Also the Port hand markers were either non-existent, or un-lit. Anyway, we found our preferred spot and anchored safely.
We have now been in this magnificent bay for 2 days. Yesterday we literally swam with dolphins (one hand on their fin, the other under their belly). What a thrill that was.....and we have a DVD of the experience.
Today we had an extraordinary experience. We went with a guide to a spot on the reef where there were at least 30 sting rays which rubbed up against one and got underfoot. They could be rubbed and fed. It was a privilege to share the sea with them. Then in a little deeper water about 20 Black-tipped sharks came patrolling. They would come within a couple of feet of your face before veering off. There was also a good-sized moray eel , who emerged from the reef to be fed by the guide.
It was a thrilling experience to share this marine life in an area of such breath-taking natural beauty.
In the afternoon we drove up to an observation area high in the mountains an enjoyed the views of the green-covered mountains sweeping down to the azure sea.
We'll spend most of tomorrow here in Moorea sight-seeing, and then leave around 1700 hrs for the 100 mile passage to Huahine.