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Firefly - The Bay of Virgins Fatu Hiva



Well Robert Louis Stevenson wasn't wrong the Bay of Virgins on the West coast of Fatu Hiva also called Baie Hanavave (or Strong Surf Bay) is spectacular. We arrived just before sunset with a dramatic approach lined on both sides by steep green mountain slopes covered in palm trees and other vegetation. At the head of the bay there are rocky pillars whose sculptural form give the bay its name. It is rumored that the bay was originally named by explorers the Bay des Verges (or Phalli)because of the shape of the rocks, the missionaries disapproved of this and added an 'i' to the name making it Bay des Vierges (or Virgins) Whatever the truth the bay is very impressive.

There are another 6 World Arc boats at anchor here and last night we enjoyed a great evening socialising onboard the catamaran Nexus, thank you Russ and Lori. Late morning we walked for an hour up the hills behind the village to a 200 foot waterfall. Over this trip we have walked to many waterfalls only to be disappointed, we were not on this occasion. The dramatic torrent of water was help by a long deluge of rain in the early morning. There was also the added benefit of a refreshing dip in the cool deep water at the bottom of the falls.

Tonight the local village of Hanavave have organized a fish supper (nothing like those at home) for all the World ARC visitors. With the beautiful surroundings and generous hospitality of the locals and neighbours we are are in no hurry to leave the Bay of Virgins.

Paul, David and Peter

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