Friday December 18, we checked in with the Gendarmerie, passports stamped.
Nuku Hiva is the largest island in French Polynesia. In 1843, the Marquesas Islands were taken over by the French and still ruled in part by France as well a local government.
We walked around for awhile, but being at sea for 21 days we found it hard to walk in straight line, stopped a few times to rest in the shade.
Upon this hill used to sit Fort Madison, named after President James Madison. It was the first naval base the US had in the Pacific. Built in 1813 to protect the village from the British. Only attacked once, the fort was abandoned in 1814. Later renamed Fort Collet by France. In 2013 it was returned to the local authorities. In 2016 they voted to erect a modern monument expressing Marquesan culture, Tiki Tuhiva. The woman tiki stands 40ft high, the warrior is 26ft tall.
Throughout the village of Taiohae, there are several native rock sculptures depicting gods, chiefs and animals.
Saturday we got caught up on media, FaceTimed with the kids, did some laundry, kitchen sink style, had lunch at local restaurant, went to bed early.
Sunday we walked along the water front, then up the hill to Notre Dame Cathedral.
Soon after the island became under French rule, Catholic missionaries started spreading their faith. In the late 19th century, the cathedral was built. All that remains of the original building are the two bell towers, which stand at the entrance of the compound. The new church was completed in 1977. The pulpit and stations of the cross we carved from whole Tamanu trees.
*Sourdough Notes* finally able to bake a loaf yesterday!
Trance
Sailing Trance 
Another informative and educational post. You always get me to crave sourdough bread.
When not at sea, how long does it take for the “rocking sensation in bed” to stop?
Best regards, Gil
PS: Returning from Europe as a kid, on a slow ship, I spent 14 days at sea. My longest time off the “hard”.
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That’s hard to say, we have this memory foam topper on the bed, it always has “bounce” to it. Merry Christmas!
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Love all the history…how long is your stay there and where is the next stop? Merry Christmas from Ray and I…loving your adventures😊🎄
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We have a 90 permit to stay in French Polynesia, after that who knows. Hopefully some more islands will open their borders. Merry Christmas!
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Stay safe folks.
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Thanks Betty! Merry Christmas!
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Love what you are doing and enjoying the posts , it’s wet and winter here in London so you are cheering me up no end ! Love the sour dough , enjoy your wonderful journey
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Thanks Paul! Merry Christmas!
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What a beautiful place! I wondered how long it would take to get your “land” legs! Have a great time trekking around. Do have a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2021!
Our love,
Carol and Gary
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Thanks we didn’t expect the legs to feel that way. Merry Christmas!
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Photos look good. Suprised to see the number of yachts at anchor. Remember the music theme from the cartoon Popeye the sailor? 7 quick steps left then 7 quick steps right, it will help balance your dock walk. If you followed my advise and stocked up on Spam, you should be able to find fresh pineapple and enjoy holiday dinner. Cheers!
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Ha! Most if not all of the boats at anchor have been here since the spring when the country was in lockdown. It’s now cyclone season so everyone is just staying. Merry Christmas!
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Esther and I love you post..
Many days sailing upwind.. stay safe 👍
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Thanks Tom! Merry Christmas!
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