Thankfully, FELIS had looked after us remarkably well during the passage to Fiji. Apart from a few minor issues, we had escaped without any major breakdowns, something I was quietly grateful for. The biggest job was repairing a tear in the boom bag

Fiji hear we come - part 2

The next few weeks were a blur of provisioning, packing, boat jobs and trying to decide whether we really needed yet another packet of biscuits. We had provisioned for the umpteenth time. Kim cooked meals until the freezer could physically hold no more. Even the ice cube trays were sacrificed in favour of additional storage space. Apparently, ice was less important than curry and casseroles.

Having friends visit is always exciting, especially when they are the first visitors to your ‘new to us’ catamaran. It is considered a mini break from your general routine, while providing a sense of purpose, not to mention fun.

We were finally leaving the marina. Marinas are interesting places; over time, you develop a love-hate relationship with them. There is the convenience of being able to step off the boat, grab a baguette for lunch, and enjoy air conditioning whilst doing the inevitable boat jobs.  

Every boat is different and comes with its own unique problems and challenges that mainstream life doesn’t prepare you for. In my experience, the first few weeks of owning a new boat are probably the hardest

I now know the first few weeks will be the most challenging and frustrating. Felis didn’t disappoint, but I can say there is light at the end of what seems like a very murky grey tunnel.