V I T I GROUP. 



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the southwest, and pass round the south end of Vuna into the Strait 

 of Somu-somu, as the trades will be retained, and the harbors of 

 Somu-somu reached much sooner. If not disposed to proceed beyond 

 Lauthala, advantage may be taken of the harbor at the junction 

 of Kamia and Lauthala Islands, which is well protected by the reef, 

 and easy of access, from the absence of reef to the eastward of 

 Matangi. 



These Passages are all suitable for a vessel bound to or through 

 this group, sailing from east to west. I have not imagined that any 

 navigator would have the hardihood to attempt to pass in a contrary 

 direction, surrounded as he would be by so many dangers, and which 

 he had no necessity for encountering, with a certainty of adverse 

 winds. 



TOVA REEF. 



Tova Reef lies halfway between the islands of Totoia and Vanua- 

 vatu, from which latter the distance is 22 miles. It is due east of 

 Moala, 25 miles. It is one of the most dangerous outlying reefs in 

 this group, of circular form, one mile in diameter, and has an opening 

 for boats on its north side. The water inside the reef is quite shoal 

 and irregular in depth, from 2 feet to 2 fathoms. At low water this 

 reef is dry, and then protection for a boat may be had inside. At all 

 times the sea breaks on it, but at high water the breakers are very 

 high and can be seen some distance. Its true bearing from Totoia 

 Peak is northeast-by-north. Moala and Totoia are in sight from it, 

 but Vanua-vatu is not. 



TOTOIA. 



The Island of Totoia is high and much broken, of volcanic forma- 

 tion, and has many fertile valleys. A coral-reef extends all around 

 the island, except on its north side. It is from 1 to li miles from 

 the shore ; and although here and there a coral patch exists, yet good 

 anchorage may be found within the reef. On the northern side the 

 soundings are very irregular, and the bottom much broken, and only 

 answers for a temporary anchorage. North Bay is more convenient 

 and better adapted for vessels, though South Bay affords also good 

 protection. Water and wood may be obtained at this island, but as 

 the natives have a very bad character even among the Feejeeans, 

 it is necessary for visitors to be on their guard. 



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