Tin Tin Of St Mawes made entry at Levuka and found a good welcome and easy formalities. The Port Authority answered Ch16 immediately and directed us to moor 100-200m north of the wharf. They arranged for Health to visit, and after lunch, I brought the official on board and completed his paperwork. The boat was sprayed to prevent any mosquitos with zika virus arriving from Tonga. The Customs and immigration ate on thebafjacent heritage building and were very welcoming.

It was too late to get my cruising permit that day but after breakfast, I walked the 5 minutes past the fish factory to the Provincial administration building. They faxed my details to Suva and my permit was given to me within 30 minutes. To pay my fees F $168 Health F $5/night port dues there is an ATM close to Customs. Altogether we relished our two days here especially as on the last night we were invited to join fishermen and port officials drinking kava from a bowl made from a large fishing float.

The town itself extends back into the hills with beautiful paved trails winding up between the cottages. Everyone was immensely welcoming and our hearts are filled with their kindness and friendship. Good food was had at both Horizon and The Whale Tale on the front, the latter not serving alcohol but allowing it in from the store next door. We also had a very light lunch at the heritage Royal Hotel which is well worth a visit for its unchanged colonial era style.