Repairs, Horses, Steve and Ua Poa

We have been enjoying Hiva Oa.  The local people are all so generous and kind.  Marquesans  have given us so much fruit, offered us rides and happily shared their beach and waves for surfing.

On our last day we met a local carver who made us a special Dolphin carving with traditional writing embossed into it for protection and symbols of the sea and our passage.  He also agreed to let Sophie go horse riding after we collected his half wild horses from the woods.

Seth got in on the fun.

Before heading to our next island Ua Poa, the kids wanted to see Steve again (our Robinson Caruso friend on the deserted beach) and introduce Robert to him.  Sophie made him another chocolate cake while Steve taught us to properly open coconuts, find shells and finally to teach Yael how to spear fish.

Now we are exploring Ua Poa which is a beautiful Island with lots of Marquesan culture.  We are considering leaving tomorrow for a three day crossing to the Tuamotus as the winds look favorable.

Many dolphins lead us into Ua Poa

And Carrie studying the map and guides

 Here is Robert grinding coffee for the passage

Update : it looks like we will leave Ua Poa for the Tuamotus heading South West for 450 miles this afternoon, our last big crossing.  We met another boat with a family we will "race" as we cross.