Island Time to City Lights: Delivering a Lagoon 50 from Fiji to Auckland

The turquoise waters of Fiji, a sailor’s dream, were our starting point for this December delivery of a sleek Lagoon 50 catamaran to Auckland. December in the South Pacific means summer, but it also whispers of the cyclone season. This voyage demanded meticulous planning and a healthy respect for Neptune’s unpredictable moods.

Pre-Departure Prep: More Than Just a Lei

Before slipping our moorings, the Lagoon 50 underwent a thorough check-up. Engines purred after a service, the rigging was scrutinized for any wear, and the electronics, our lifeline to the world, were given a clean bill of health. Provisioning for a crew of four for a couple of weeks required strategic thinking. We stocked up on everything from fresh fruit (which mysteriously vanished quickly) to enough pasta to feed a small army. A funny moment? We nearly forgot coffee! Disaster averted just in time.

Navigating the Cyclone Season Shuffle

December sits squarely in the cyclone season, so our route planning was paramount. We kept a keen eye on weather charts, ready to alter course if needed. The goal was to slip between any potential disturbances and make the most of favorable winds. This time of year, the trade winds can be fickle, so we planned for a mix of sailing and motoring, especially in the initial stages of the trip. Starlink is essential for passages like this.

Safety First, Fun Second (Well, Almost)

Safety is always our top priority. Life rafts were inspected, EPIRBs tested, and the first aid kit was stocked with everything from seasickness remedies to band-aids for minor scrapes. We even held a quick safety drill, complete with donning life jackets, which brought a few laughs (and a renewed sense of preparedness).

Crew Dynamics: The Recipe for a Smooth Voyage

Our crew comprised a mix of experienced sailors and keen novices. A well-defined watch schedule ensured everyone got sufficient rest, and a healthy dose of humor kept spirits high. We learned early on that a happy crew is a productive crew. Of course, there were a few disagreements about music choices, but nothing a well-timed cup of tea couldn’t solve.

Communication: Staying Connected in the Blue Expanse

In the vastness of the Pacific, communication is key. We relied on our Starlink for regular weather updates and kept in touch with family and friends. VHF radio was our primary tool for local communication if we saw any other vessels – which we did! Amazingly they called us up and asked for our WhatsApp and sent some photos!. A funny incident involved a miscommunication about dinner, resulting in a mountain of pasta and a very confused (and well-fed) crew.

The Lagoon 50: A Review

The Lagoon 50 is a fantastic catamaran, offering ample space and comfort for long passages. Its

stability was a real asset in the sometimes-choppy conditions. The spacious saloon and well-equipped galley made life on board a pleasure. This particular model had a great layout, making it easy for the crew to move around and work efficiently. The Lagoon 50 is a popular choice for cruising and it is easy to see why.

Auckland Ahoy!

After a week at sea, the skyline of Auckland emerged on the horizon. We’d faced some challenging weather, enjoyed some spectacular sunsets, and learned a lot about teamwork and seamanship. Delivering the Lagoon 50 to its new home was a rewarding experience, and a reminder of the allure of the open ocean. Yacht Delivery Solutions are experts in the South Pacific, NZ and AU, ensuring your vessel arrives safely and on time.