Cruising Tonga: Post-Passage Bliss, Build Updates, and Island Exploration

Arrival in Tonga

• 🏝️ After an arduous 11-day, 1400 nautical mile passage with 15-foot seas, the crew of Delos has arrived in the Kingdom of Tonga, finding it a welcome relief and a return to cruising life.
• ⚓ Tonga offers numerous protected anchorages, described as being like anchoring in a swimming pool due to the many small islands shielding from wind and swell.

Reflecting on Past and Present

• 🕰️ A look back at a 2011 blog post reveals a past life focused on finishing boat builds, drinking mini kegs of Heineken, and partying, contrasting with the current family-focused cruising.
• 📶 The ease of uploading content now, thanks to sponsors like Saily, is highlighted compared to the struggles of uploading simple text blogs 15 years ago.

Saily: Staying Connected at Sea

• 🛰️ Saily is introduced as a sponsor providing easy-to-use eSIM plans for staying connected while traveling.
• 📱 The process involves installing the Saily app, selecting a regional plan for Tonga, and installing the eSIM digitally, avoiding trips to stores.
• 💰 Using the code SVDELOS at checkout provides an additional 15% discount and supports the channel.
• 🌟 Saily offers features like virtual location for streaming, an ad blocker, and enhanced security and privacy, all while saving on expensive roaming charges.

Delos 2.0 Build Progress

• 🏗️ Updates on the Delos 2.0 build show progress on interior liners, with a focus on removable panels and fast mounts for easy access.
• 🛠️ Aluminum tracks are being welded to the hull frames to support these removable panels, with insulation to be added later after upholstery.
• 🖼️ Exciting new hatches, a love seat, and steps in the forward cockpit are among the visual updates from the build team.

Exploring Tonga's Wonders

• 🦇 Fruit bats, specifically Pacific Flying Foxes (Opus Tonga Anus), are observed, distinct from species found in Australia.
• 🌊 Swallows Cave on Kapa Island is explored, a massive sea cave with deep, clear water, described as an underwater cathedral with unique acoustics.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A significant milestone is reached as Sierra is deemed old enough to swim off the boat unsupervised, leading to the removal of safety nets, a proud moment for the parents.
• 🗺️ Navigating through shallow passes requires careful use of depth sounders and dinghies to ensure the boat's deep keel avoids getting stuck.
• 🥾 A hike on an island leads to a picnic lunch and the discovery of old fishing floats and survey markers, offering fresh air and family time.
• ⚓ The crew successfully anchors in a new, protected anchorage after navigating tricky shallows, demonstrating their seamanship.