We are underway for Minerva Reefs and there is a moderate sea. It is a reminder that we now leave the shelter of islands until we reach Raoul Island, so we are exposed to the vagaries of the weather and ocean. We have been watching low pressure systems forming near us and hope that they don’t intensify to generate strong winds, or even form into cyclones. This morning we woke to a dark veil of cloud that looked ominous for our forward journey.
A dark veil of cloud greeted us this morning.
Photo: Richard Robinson, www.depth.co.nz
Before we left Nuku’alofa, we obtained all the clearances required to leave Tonga and I met with government officials to finalise the conditions for our permit to collect at Minerva Reefs. With all in order, we are ready for the last phase of the expedition.
Nuku’alofa Harbour shoreline.
Photo: Richard Robinson, www.depth.co.nz
By Dr Tom Trnski
