Gisborne

James Cook first set foot on New Zealand soil along this bay in 1769. Unfortunately, we were unable to follow in his footsteps today.  Heavy winds and seas ruled out our planned shore excursions per tender boat. 

We anchored in the bay for a couple of hours, hoping for calmer conditions. Young Nick’s Head, the white cliffs first spotted by (and named after) Cook’s cabin boy, beckoned. 

It was soon decided that neither the seas nor winds would change soon, and alternatives were explored. 

Our plan had been to spend the day anchored here, and then cruise tonight to Napier, tomorrow’s harbor, where the ship would dock at a pier for the day while we passengers go ashore. The bridge contacted the harbor in Napier to see if we could arrive early, and spend the night berthed there. Sure, said the harbor master, but we will have to charge you. 

Apparently the price was pretty high; the Captain chose to just cruise leisurely to Napier. We are underway at 6.8 knots, about half our normal cruising speed.  We will arrive at 07:00 tomorrow, as planned

Ah hah! I have another chance to sharpen my Mau Mau skills!