Monday brought a brief respite for Lady Moana skipper Sefanaia Tuwai and his crew of seven, who were allowed to dock at Avatiu port to restock essential supplies.

The Lady Moana, built in 1997, 27 metres in length, with a gross weight of 163 tonnes and dead weight of 239 tonnes, services the outer islands with cargo.

The vessel has been sheltering on the western side of Rarotonga in recent days due to rough weather conditions.

Tuwai said the vessel returned from Mangaia on Friday and was directed to drift just off the coast.

He said the ship was scheduled to sail Atiu on Monday but weather conditions continue to make sailing uncertain.

“We have been through this before, we have to be cautious.”