Day 57 The Society Islands

Tahiti
We are finally in Tahiti after 2 ½ days of beating against the wind and waves. (Note, beating is a sailing term for sailing against the wind). The waves were 4 to 8 feet high with some that occasionally topped that. The wind went above 30 knots (most sailors become uncomfortable above 30) and we took some waves over the bow. Eventually, we had to “fall off the wind” (sail with it instead of against it) even though that is not the direction we wanted to go.
By midnight, the wind changed direction and we were able to make way south to Tahiti.
Our first view of the island was shrouded in fog, clouds and rain. We decided to moor at the Tahiti Yacht Club since Mark has reciprocal rights with the Emeryville Yacht Club and we got one week of free anchorage. Mooring means we have no shore connection to water and electricity so we will eventually have to move in order to clean up for the next passage. At least the Yacht Club had hot showers and a laundry so we and our clothes are clean. Feels good!!!
We were not as well prepared with quick food as we had been in the past and it was too rough to cook so we ended up eating less than the normal complement of meals. Besides that, Andy was seasick so he was not interested in eating. We will try to make up with some shore time once the rain stops. (And this is supposed to be the dry season)
French Polynesia just installed wireless internet for many of the islands so when we were on Nuka Hiva in the Marquises, I bought 5 hours of time with the expectation that I would be able to use it in many of the locations we plan to visit. My expectations were foiled when I found out I have to re-validate the service by telephone for each new location. Right now I am waiting for the re-validation to become effective. So administratively French.