At anchor at Baie de Chambeyron

Apparently this is the premier reef surfing spot in New Caledonia. Yesterday we went ashore again and met the operator of a reef surfing boat and there were 2 Australians staying here who had also come for the surfing. You need to be somewhat of an experienced surfer to surf coral reefs because if you make a mistake...............!! They usually surf the southern side of a reef pass where the reef curves around into the pass and this produces the much sought after left hand break.
We've been having a relatively quiet time watching the weather and trying work out when to leave for the north when the current SE weather pattern dies down a bit. In the next couple of days the wind is expected to lessen and go more to the east which would suit us quite well. However, no sign of that at the moment. We've been also trying to work out whether to break the journey north by going into the Baie de Bourail which doesn't give any access to the northern or southern lagoon, or whether to keep going for the Passe de Duroc which is at the southern extremity of the navigable part of the northern lagoon. If we do the latter it is 85 miles just for the ocean passage part so will involve at least one overnight sail. Navigation will be important so that we don't get too close to the reef!!
This morning (it is now 1000 on the 16th.) David from "Giselle" went out to the reef with the surfers and is going to try his luck in the breakers! As the crow flies the outer reef from here is about 5 miles. They left about an hour and a half ago in a fast boat so will be interesting to hear all about the exploits when they return. Wetsuits are important, not just to protect against the water temperature, but also to ward off the occasional brush with coral which can produce very nasty septic wounds which can take forever to heal. Not our cup of tea but guess if you're a keen surfer.............. Gina's been doing the washing by hand and everything now hanging from the lifelines! She's about to make some oatmeal cracker biscuits and a loaf of soda bread made from Spelt Flour so it's all go here!!
That's it for now folks!!
Lots of love from us
Jim and Jean (Gina)

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