Route

Hawaii –> Tahiti –> Hawaii

1. Depart Ke’ehi Marina on a south-easterly heading to make some easting before hitting the doldrums and the Equatorial Counter-Current. This should keep us on a close reach with the wind a bit forward of the beam; Fast, easy sailing.
2. As we approach the doldrums the wind will start to veer forcing us to turn more southerly. I hate motoring, but with the tight schedule it may be required to get through the calm days.
3. Approaching the southern boundary of the south-east trades the wind will begin picking up again, forcing us more to the south or south-west.
4. At this point, depending on how much easting we’ve made north of the equator, we can expect anything from a beam reach to a close haul, but I’m expecting more fast, easy close reaching.

Here are some marinas, harbours and boatyards along the way if we need them:

1. Tahiti: http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/FrenchPolynesia/Tahiti
   1. Bounty Yacht Quay: full service marina
   2. Tahihi Nautic Center: full service marina & boatyard
   3. Papeete Harbour (Quai des Yachts): Basic services & on busy town centre quay
   4. Tahiti Yacht Club: full service marina
   5. Taina Marina: primarily for resident motor cruisers
   6. Tahiti Nautic Centre, Taravao: small but full service marina and boatyard
2. Bora Bora: http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/FrenchPolynesia/BoraBora
   1. Mai Kai Marina & Yacht Club: full service marina
   2. Bora Bora Yacht Club: mooring buoys and facilities ashore
3. Moorea: http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/FrenchPolynesia/Moorea
   1. Marina Vaiare: full service marina
4. Hiva Oa: http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/FrenchPolynesia/HivaOa
   1. Atuona Port: not a marina, but the port provides good shelter