Ah, the sweet feeling of Charisma gently rolling on the end of her anchor – the moon smiling down upon us on the mirror smooth water.

Yes, we have finally broken away from the dock, even if only for a five day shakedown cruise to Barrier Island – 20 some miles off the east coast of the north island of New Zealand.

Charisma is very happy to be free of the dock and out on the ocean (almost). We’re currently anchored at Urquarts Cove just inside of the Pacific Ocean. Tomorrow, it’s anchor up at 0730 and we’re off for the 26 mile voyage to Barrier where we hope to see how all the systems are working as well as maybe catch a snapper for dinner and gather some oysters off the rocks. As Ann put it: we’re sure to catch a snapper since I bought plenty of meat!

Charisma was on her best behavior leaving the dock as she clearly was chomping to get back to the sea. She backed straight out where I was hoping she would go and without a complaint we were heading to the bridge and downriver.

So…I can’t remember if we have internet coverage at Barrier. If we do, we’ll post. If not, we’ll see you all again on Wednesday next!