In Tonga, we are a day ahead of most of the western world. As our yachts have left Niue for a 48 hour sail, they find 3 days has past by the time they get here, as they have crossed the International Date Line. The rally all change their clocks at the same time. Consequently, Sandie, a guest on Blue Magic, enjoyed her birthday for 30 minutes, before the clocks were wound forward to the next day. So for those of you in yesterday, I can tell you the weather tomorrow is great; well in Tonga at least.

Not all our yachts have yet arrived, but the last 2 we expect here, Peregrina and Spirit of Nina are expected in tomorrow, Wednesday 30th June. That still leaves a handful of yachts who have suffered some gear failures en route. Bionic is now bringing up the rear, as she has a new cylinder head fitted in Raiatea. Mercury Rising, Scot Free, Camomile, Moonshiner and Angel are all in the region of the Cook Islands, some are already heading for Niue.

The rest are about to enjoy the welcome party in Neiafu this evening. This is a small town in the Vava’u archipelago – the furthest East island group of the Kingdom of Tonga. Of course, tonight’s party will feature some local dancers and a band; followed by a disco to get the party jumping. Then tomorrow, we all drop our mooring buoys and head off amongst these beautiful islands to a little bay for fun, games and feasting. In the afternoon, the Mighty Blue Water Rally Dinghy Race, where each yacht tries to fit sails to their rubber dinghy and sail a course. They are not allowed to use engines or paddle; the sail can be made of anything but a sail. The ingenuity of some designs is incredible. Last rally, the race was won by a Dutch couple powering their dinghy with 3 beach umbrellas! In the evening, we will have a Tongan Feast on the beach. More dancers will display the variety which abounds in this region, and we will sit under the stars and feast the Tongan way. After that, and a night at anchor, we will return to Neiafu via a glorious beach, called ‘Nuku’, to have a barbeque. On Friday, departure preparations begin.