Ahoy there, sea rovers! Another day, another nautical tale to regale you with from the splendid Tongan Islands. After our exhausting passage, our crew slowly emerged from their cocoons, well-rested and ready for another day of adventure.

Our first destination? The cruiser’s paradise of Port Maurelle. With the engine humming, we motor-sailed over, hoping to beat the crowd to this popular spot. To our delight, only one other boat was anchored in the bay when we arrived. The water was so clear and blue it looked like it had been Photoshopped, and the lovely beach beckoned us ashore.

Our new boom tent looking good! and keeping the boat much cooler!

The morning was a postcard-perfect scene of swimming and soaking in the sights. We dove into the crystal-clear waters, snorkels at the ready, discovering vibrant coral gardens teeming with life. Fish of every color imaginable darted around, completely unfazed by our presence. It was an aquatic wonderland, and we were the wide-eyed tourists snapping mental photos at every turn.

Tuna ceviche and Spanish Mackerel korma for lunch. Bellissimo!!

After drying off and having a quick lunch on board, we prepared for the afternoon’s main event: Swallows Cave. For those not in the know, Swallows Cave is one of Tonga’s most famous sea caves, renowned for its stunning underwater scenery and the vibrant schools of fish that call it home. The cave’s name comes from the swallows that nest in its crevices, but the real show happens underwater. As we donned our snorkels and flippers, the beauty of the cave blew us away. Thousands of fish darted around, creating a living kaleidoscope of colors.

Our very own Aquaman, Warwick, put on a show, diving gracefully through the depths of the cave, with the fish parting like the Red Sea before him. It was like watching a scene from a movie—if that movie starred Warwick and a whole lot of very confused fish.

After a wonderful day of snorkelling and relaxing, it was the girls’ turn to whip up dinner. Thankfully, this meant everyone’s meals were fully cooked (sorry boys, but facts are facts). We feasted like kings(and queens), thoroughly satisfied with our day's adventures.

The next morning, we had another leisurely start. Hey, we’re cruising after all! Today's plan was to visit Mariners Cave. Mariners Cave is another legendary spot, famous for its underwater entrance which requires a bit of nerve and some decent diving skills to access. It’s said that once inside, the cave's air pressure creates a foggy mist, adding to its mystique.

I decided it was time to work on my diving skills. With Carol and resident swim expert Darren as my coaches, I practiced diving under the boat’s hull. Darren, ever the patient teacher, compared my efforts to a cork that might just defy the laws of physics and stay afloat forever. Undeterred, I set my sights on touching the bottom of the keel—a modest goal, but hey, we all have to start somewhere.

When we arrived at the waypoint for Mariners Cave, finding the entrance proved to be a bit of a treasure hunt. We sent Darren out on a recon mission, and he finally located it. Then we dispatched our bravest sacrificial lambs, John and Matt, to test the waters. John, earning the title of “Bravest of All,” dove in without hesitation, trailing a rope for safety. His successful entry was our green light.

After strong reassurances from my crew that I wouldn’t end up as fish food, I took a deep breath and dove in before my brain could convince me otherwise. The cave was nothing short of magical—an eerie, beautiful wonder that made every ounce of effort worthwhile. We were all buzzing with excitement after conquering this underwater challenge.

That afternoon, we motored over to Vaka’eitu, another snorkelling hotspot that boasts some of the best underwater scenery in Tonga. The plan was to spend the next day exploring the coral reefs and enjoying the abundant marine life.

Stay tuned for more underwater adventures and island escapades as we continue our journey through the beautiful Tongan Islands. There’s always another cove to explore, another reef to dive, and another story to tell.

Till next time,
Jess :)

Join the crew for a sailing adventure

Mariners Cave Exploration

Push-up Prowess

Finally! It’s a fish!