This Fountaine Pajot Helia was the second time we had delivered the vessel, having previously worked aboard the yacht before being asked to relocate it from New Zealand to Fiji.
Fountaine Pajot Helia Delivery from New Zealand to Fiji
We are experienced Fountaine Pajot delivery skippers with extensive yacht delivery experience across New Zealand and offshore.
Repeat deliveries are always valuable because much of the vessel familiarisation has already been done. Having previously delivered this Fountaine Pajot Helia, we were already familiar with the yacht’s systems, sailing characteristics and operational setup before departure.
The route from New Zealand to Fiji is one of the most common passages undertaken by cruising catamarans in the South Pacific. Many owners relocate their vessels north each year as they prepare for another season exploring Fiji, Tonga and the surrounding island groups.
Weather timing was the primary consideration for the passage. The first few days after leaving New Zealand are often the most important, with departure windows selected to avoid unnecessary exposure to developing weather systems before connecting with more favourable conditions further north.
The Fountaine Pajot Helia remains one of the most successful cruising catamarans produced by the French builder. Known for its balance of comfort, storage capacity and offshore capability, the model is frequently encountered throughout Pacific cruising grounds.
Once underway, the yacht settled into a routine of watchkeeping, weather monitoring and daily vessel inspections. Familiarity with the boat made passage management straightforward, allowing the crew to focus on routing and maintaining steady progress towards Fiji.
Arrival in Fiji completed our second delivery aboard this Helia and another successful New Zealand to South Pacific relocation. It was a good example of how repeat vessel experience can contribute to efficient offshore yacht delivery operations.
