1/40: Most of the lagoons in the Lau group are quite open--almost like open ocean sailing.
2/40: It's therefore really important to find a protected anchorage.
3/40: We took Pitufa on a few scenic tours around the "Bay of Islands" on the N side of Vanua Balavu.
4/40: The lime stone formations are fascinating...
6/40: They drop off so steeply that the helmswoman could take Pitufa really close to the shore...
11/40: With Christian taking tons of pics...
12/40: ...I could only leave the helm for quick glimpses around.
13/40: We found a few very picturesque anchorages!
23/40: We also took the dinghy for some rides around the anchorages.
26/40: We followed screeching and chirping sounds into a narrow, mangrove-fringed creek.
27/40: ...and found a big colony of flying foxes! They spend the days sleeping upside down.
28/40: Only some of the cute bats fly around...
29/40: ...or hang out chatting with friends...
31/40: We anchored Pitufa off the village of Malaka...
32/40: ...and went for a walk ashore.
33/40: Sadly most of the slopes around the village are burned down--apparently locals burn the trees to make plantations and then never get round to it... (as a woman told us).
34/40: The village of Muamua
36/40: The family called us in to show us their carvings and we bought a bowl.
37/40: View of Bavati Bay on the N side of Vanua Balavu.
38/40: We walked across the ridge to a viewpoint overlooking the Bay of Islands.
40/40: Sickle moon and Venus in the light of dawn.
