Puaumu is in the NE corner of the Gambiers. We had to cross over unchartered areas with a look out on the bow to keep the boat clear of coral bommies. We arrived on a beautiful, calm day with no swell, light winds and perfect conditions. Not many cruisers or locals visit this small, private, yet pristine island.
Puaumu in Gambiers
The first few days at this anchorage were just glorious. We had the entire bay to ourselves and the water was like a glassy mirror of the sky. The island of Puaumu is in the shape of a “C.” The left side of the island or the north side is owned by my friend Stefan and his family. The right side or the south is owned by another family. Stefan and his family stayed here for 2 weeks during quarantine. We had the pleasure of visiting them by dinghy and enjoyed a huge, delicious luncheon feast.
Playing in Puaumu
Smooth waters are just perfect for paddle boarding. Typically, I paddle board on my knees or butt, but with these conditions I ventured on to my feet. It was shaky at first, a little bob and weaving going on, but I finally got the hang of it. Matt and I paddled around the anchorage, checked on the anchor, and admired the many fish around the coral heads.
There was one coral bommie directly under the boat. Well, let’s be clear, it was not under the boat when we anchored. When the wind changed, we shifted over the bommie. As you can see, Matt is checking it out and we have clearance – even during low tide.
Matt broke out the drone and captured some amazing shots of Sugar Shack during sunset. The dark splotchy marks in the water are coral bommies.
Sugar Shack at Puaumu -drone shot
These are amazing shots too. The top one shows the Pacific (lower portion of photo), Puaumu and the lagoon. Sugar Shack at peace by herself and Mangareva in the background. The center photo has Puaumu on the far right (off camera) and shows the furthest NE motu, Tepapuri in the background. We can’t bring the big boat to that island, but we have explored it by dinghy.
THANKING WHO?
We had invited Stefan to stay onboard Sugar Shack for the weekend. In part, as a thank you for hosting us for lunch a few weeks ago. Stefan, his wife Manu and their friend Popo (or Nani) came by fishing boat Saturday afternoon and stayed until Sunday evening. It truly was our intention to host them, to cook for them and to show them a marvelous time. However, they came with boxes of food and drink to last well over a week!
For dinner, Stefan cooked 6 lbs of Mahi Mahi, chicken and sausage. Plus, we had beet salad, fresh bread and salad. For dessert I made avocado chocolate pudding which turned out divine.
Stefan Cooking up a storm
Sunset was enjoyed at the bow of the boat. Our guests had trepidations about the trampoline, but we eventually got them to walk on it. Each square inch can hold up to 200lbs so there was no concern of breakage (no concern on our part).
The next morning, I made blueberry pancakes, but Stefan insisted on cooking omelets for everyone as well. In addition, we had cheesy bread, homemade guava preserves to go on more fresh bread, starfruit, and fresh squeezed juice.
We enjoyed a day of fun in the sun, swimming and playing cards. Lunched was followed by more fresh fish on the grill, fresh bread, fruit, sushi which is actually called poison cru.
Stefan taking a giant leap
Super fun weekend turned out to be Stefan, Manu and Popo spoiling us with cooking, cleaning, and a few days of complete fun.
Coconut Hunting
On the small islands you have to make due with what you are given. In some cases that is hunting for coconuts, but only on the islands or motus where there is no coconut harvesting of copra. A coconut is handy for coconut water, coconut milk, coconut cake, and plain ole coconut. I bet you didn’t know the little coconut could be so useful? We scavenged for a long stick and started hunting. Once we find a few green coconuts, we use our machete to hack into them and capture the yummy coconut water inside.
Coconut Hunting
Beach BBQ on Puaumu
Several of our friends decided to join us in the anchorage. After our Polynesian friends left, 4 boats joined us. A little cruiser party in Puaumu. One day we had a beach BBQ on the corner of the island. It was Hoodoo (Yanell and Missy), Sea Jay (Chris and Fred), Kalea (Jaques and Elensie), and Storm Along (Lynette and Nils).
Beach BBQ
We had some gorgeous sunset shots.
After our tasty dinner, we sat around the fire chatting and enjoying the good company.
Puaumu is an absolutely pristine island with beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and perfect views of sunset.
