We're making good time since leaving Port Vila. We are almost heading straight to our destination which is always a plus. Every so often, the wind decides to play a little game of "let's head to Torres," but it swings back. You'll hear no complaints from me as long as we're generally heading in the right direction!
One thing that's been a bit strange but definitely welcome is the lack of fishing boats. Since we left Port Vila, we haven't seen a single one. I'm starting to wonder if it has something to do with stricter fishing regulations around New Caledonia. Maybe the French have more resources to prevent dubious or illegal fishing.
Speaking of New Caledonia, it looks like those reefs extending north are going to force us to gybe later today to head around them. That is, unless we get a lucky wind shift!
On the plus side, the sea has been relatively calm, giving us a smooth ride despite the gloomy, gray skies. The GRIBS are still forecasting light winds next week, which is pretty unusual for the Coral Sea. If we were heading east, I'm pretty sure we'd be battening down the hatches and holding onto our hats! As the sun is coming up - its 5am - I am starting to see some patches of blue so hopefully its going to become a little more tropical.