The yachts have all arrived in Papeete, with the exception of Scot Free, who has just left Nuku Hiva and is on her way to join us in Tahiti. The fleet looks very impressive dressed overall, with flags fluttering gaily and has attracted a lot of attention in the town.

The new pontoon has been a great success with the rally making the most of being either side of their new ‘village street’. It has been the place for daily chats, a boat jumble and a quiz and supper night, as well as giving easy access for the delights of the town.

A ‘fun day’ was held on Tuesday, organized by the local Tourist Board and the Mayor’s Office. Leis were presented to each person before crews jumped into outrigger canoes and local catamarans for a spin round the harbour. Throughout the afternoon, a local Tahitian band serenaded the rally. Later in the afternoon, Stephanie - the local organiser of events for BWR - gave a very informative talk about the various islands to visit after Tahiti.

In the evening the ralliers were collected from the pontoon and we walked in procession through the town behind the Tahitian band to the Mairie (or Town Hall), where a reception was held in our honour. The splendid building made the perfect backdrop for the occasion. After speeches and gifts of carved shells given to each boat, a spectacular display of local dancing, a delicious buffet, we tasted the local Rangiroan wine, which rounded off a very memorable day.

On Wednesday 43 ralliers took a trip to various sights of interest around the island. The weather was less than kind and the heavens opened, making most of us look as if we were in a ‘wet T-shirt’ completion. However, on the positive side, the waterfall was spectacular after so much rain!

Today, Saturday, half the fleet have moved to the beautiful island of Moorea and we expect nearly all the rest to join us tomorrow.