When I left Tahiti one week ago I was certain to be on my way to Niue by now. Until Bora Bora everything went fine, then four strands of the port bottom shroud broke. Then I discovered that the backing plate and of the starboard shroud was cracked as well, and the mast was beginning to crack. I knew boat repairs would catch up with me again, I just hoped it wouldn't be before I got to New Zealand.
Some emails and calls with Christophe from API Yachting (Tahiti) later we had a solution, and yesterday I picked up new backing plates from the supply boat.
Russell from Moonwalker pulled me up to the first spreader and I went to work with drill and Dremel. The hole is cut, today I have to file it into shape.
Then I can measure the length for the new shrouds. I hope he can send them out tonight so I can have them tomorrow morning. It looks like Monday would be a good day to leave for Niue weather-wise.
Staying here a few extra days allowed me to catch up with friends again, and to dive. Honestly, the diving is not worth it, but chats with the crew of E Capoe, Wet Lady, Contina, Lazy Lady, Moonwalker, and La Luz are totally worth the delay.