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Paw Paw - Log Day 302: A Very Different Cyclone / Hurricane Season



Well, the storm arrived at 0230 this morning as forecasted which resulted in "anchor watch" for a few hours.  While the wind reached 38 Kts and the sea was very lumpy, we were, nonetheless, grateful that we were tucked away safe and sound in the bay at Opua and weren't exposed to the 50 Kts and 2M swells around Cape Brett.

For prudence though, we did have both engines on in neutral for a period of time, but fortunately our mooring ball, along with all the mooring balls around us, held as designed, giving us the confidence that Paw Paw will be just fine when we return to the USA next month.

After an interrupted night's sleep,  we were in no hurry to get up this morning, but we eventually ventured ashore mid-morning to do laundry, following which we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Marina CafĂ© and said our goodbyes to Raya (Ros and Rick) as they head to Gulf Harbour.

It was with a heavy heart that we suddenly realised it is unlikely that we will see many of our sailing friends again, as they have departed for other destinations in New Zealand to haul their yachts and go home for the season.  It seems this will be a very different Cyclone / Hurricane Season from the two we experienced in Bonaire and Grenada, where sailors gathered to spend the season together vs dispersing, as they do here.

We are also, however, looking forward to spending time with our own family and friends "back home", as well as exploring New Zealand and who knows where paths will cross again.


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