Mbengga is also known as Beqa but it is pronounced “menga.” It is a mere 10 kilometers from the main land of Viti Levu and is surrounded by a large reef. Once you enter the reef there are actually two islands in the lagoon including Yanuca and Mbengga. So how did we get here?
We finally pulled up the anchor from our lovely sandy spit near Malolo Island. We had been in the same spot for a little over 2 weeks and it was well beyond time we leave. There was a distinct possibility that our anchor grew roots, but as it turned out, only our chain and bridle had growth. Nothing a quick pressure wash and scrub won’t cure and she was shiny and clean again. As we headed out the pass we were joined by a beautiful pod of dolphins. One in particular was having a ball doing twists and turns in tune to our music. Look at the water clarity!
The dolphins gently guided us out of the Malolo pass near Cloud Break the world-famous surf spot. We were going a little to fast to capture the surfers, but they seemed to be having a grand time.
What a great way to start our short passage.
Natadola Harbor
The winds were not cooperating, so we decided to make an overnight stop in a small bay called Natadola Harbor. It is off the mainland of Viti Levu. We did not arrive until late in the afternoon and planned to depart at dawn, so we did not go to shore to do sevusevu. Sunset was gorgeous from here and we even saw the elusive green flash!
Next to the resort was a small community with very colorful houses. Assume that is where the staff stayed, but I could be wrong.
The next morning, we planned to sail 80nm to Kadavu. It would be a “stretch” as it is pretty far to go in day light hours and we were forecasted to have light winds. In the end, we decided to make a game day decision on our destination once we got out at sea and could see the actual weather.
As it turned out, the wind was not strong enough for a sail that far. We decided to head to Mbengga Reef which was only 40nm away – new place to explore since we had not been there before.
Yanuca Island
Inside the Mbengga reef is a small island called Yanuca Island. We found a pretty anchorage just in front of a school and residence. Really green hillsides and super quiet anchorage.
It was a quick stop for us as we had grand plans to make it to Kadavu. After one short overnight we left Yanuca for Mbengga.
Mbengga Island
We headed across the lagoon 12nm to the island of Mbengga. There is a deep inlet that was calling to us! Can you see the red arrow in the right photo? That is Sugar Shack.
The entrance to the inlet is so darn pretty. It really took our breath away with its vibrant green hillsides and smooth waters. Just screaming “come enjoy the beauty of Mbengga.”
At the mouth of the bay is a resort called Lalati Resort. You can barely see the hidden villas tucked amongst the trees on the beach front.
Just past the resort is a small school with a playground.
And deep into the bay we went – another 2nm to the deep recess of the inlet. We went as far as we could while keeping water under our keel.
This place is so beautiful and serene. Matt got the drone out and captured some truly amazing photos.
Mbengga aka Beqa
Another view. The brownish areas are actually reefs full of little fishies and wild life.
Sunset was magnificent with the calm waters reflecting skies beautiful colors.
And we were treated to the song of the fruit bats as they left to hunt for food. It’s hard to capture these little buggers as they zoom across the sky at dusk.
The next morning we left Mbengga and headed toward the Kadavu Reef. It was a dewy morning that left the boat moist, but the seas were calm and the weather beautiful.
The events from this blog occurred in early September 2022. Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual events. We unwind and relax after a busy 5 weeks showing guests around in our last blog?
