Rain, rain, go away

It has rained nonstop since we arrived in Pago Pago and gives no indication of stopping. Samoa seems to be sitting in an unusually stable tropical trough which has resulted in almost nonstop rain for the past 2-3 weeks. I gather they have not seen rain like this since the late 1990s. Most of the streets are flooded and pot-holed and water is running everywhere.

We have still managed to get out and see some of the area and I joined Kyle and Ron on an excursion to the east side of the island where they wanted to surf. The waves looked pretty nice and sitting on the beach in the rain wasn't too bad at all.

Last night we went to Tisa's, one of our favorite places, for a traditional Polynesian dinner. We had turkey, chicken, fish, freshwater prawns, pork, banana, squash, papaya, and countless other delectables all served on a long table and eaten with your fingers from palm frond plates. It was spectacular! The next morning I am still full!

For the past few days we have been looking at the weather and trying to decide on a course of action for the next leg of the cruise. Our initial plan has been to work around Tutuila but with the weather, I think we may be heading up to Swains Island instead. Current surface analysis suggests Swains may be on the north side of the trough with north winds 5-15kt and waves 5 feet or less.

It has been nice to see Tutuila and I gather the diving is pretty good, but I will admit to not being disappointed to be able to see Swains. Another small island not too many people get to visit. I hope for good weather.