Oct 14 - Team Infini is safely anchored at North Minerva Reef

Position: S23deg39.4min/W178deg54.1min
We anchored in 52' of sand at 1800 hours after a 287 nm passage. We had varied wx, but much of the time it was cloudy, rainy and winds were high. Minerva Reef is an old volcanic crater surrounded by a thin rim of reef all around with one entrance into the area. The area is claimed by both Tonga and Fiji, and in the past boats have been told to leave the area due to this dispute. Wx permitting, boats stop here on passage to NZ, as it cuts down the long leg of the trip to about 850 nm (approx) and you're able to wait for a decent wx forecast going onwards. Talking about the wx, once again I'd urge anyone following our blog not to rely 100% on grib forecasts. They are often inaccurate and it's very difficult for the models to predict with certainty what wx you'll get in the very small patch of ocean you're in! This two day passage was forecast to have nice 10-15 knot SE winds, not the NE gale that blew constant 35 knots for several hours with gusts we noted to 42 knots. One thing about this sailing game...you take what you get out here and it's better to be prepared for the worst.