Thursday, September 15, 2016

Vuda Point Marina, Lautoka, Fiji

An update from Reboot.....

Reboot, Capt Roger, XO (the wonder cat) and crew are currently in Vuda Point. Once again we made an entrance - towed in due to bad engine vibration, Capt Roger once again forgot to put on his shorts so arrived in his boxers. But he digresses...

Vuda Point is the first comprehensive marine repair facility when traveling west from Tahiti. entrance channel is well marked with white poles. At night they are illuminated by flashing red and green lights. Night entry is still not recommended. The marina facility is "med morning." A chase boat is required to help you into your slip. Be prepared to wait outside for your turn. As of this writing the marina monitors channel 11.

Approaching the entrance channel is straightforward the second time. The first time not such. The marina is not shown on the (Garmin) charts.

Position 17º41'04"S, 177º23'02"E (Vuda Marina entrance channel.)

The area around the entrance is littered with buoys (most not on the charts) and an offshore pipeline for tankers. As you get closer the picture becomes clearer as you sort out the channel, pipeline, quarantine, anchorage, etc. buoys. The quarantine buoy is large, yellow and round. Do not confuse it with the yellow "can" buoys. It has "marina" painted on it. It is to one's left as you approach the channel.

The marina megayacht facility is still an artist's conception although some work has been done on the breakwall.

The interior basis (at the moment the only one until the megayacht facility is complete) suffers from poor water flow so the water is quite dirty. Don't expect to dive to check the bottom of your boat.

The staff is very helpful and efficient. There is a list of contractors and the availability of casual labor to help with washing, etc. The restaurant is nice but more pricey then in savusavu.

More to follow after I have had some experience with the repair facility and chandeliers

Fair winds and following seas :)

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