March 22 – 25 Sailing the South Sea

The term “South Sea” originates with the Spanish explorer, Balboa, who first crossed the isthmus of Panama.  From his vantage point, he was looking south over a vast ocean, hence he called it the “South Sea”.  It was not until Magellan passed through the straights at the southern tip of the Americas, that what we now know as the Pacific Ocean got its name.  Although “pacific” is also a misnomer, as our last few days can attest to. 

I noted this morning, that we are at day 24 of our journey and this marks the longest we have been away from home.  While we miss our friends and family, we continue to look forward to each day and the next adventure with anticipation and excitement. 

My last post was about Pitcairn Island.  Since then we have been traveling, first to the last of the Pitcairn Island group, Oeno Atoll.  We reached this island on the 22^nd, but again the seas were rough and no landing was possible.  Still a beautiful sight from the ship.  Some went off to snorkel, but we decided with he rough seas and the limited visibility, not to chance it.  Those that went, validated our decision to remain on board.

From Oeno, we headed south and west to a group of islands that are inside a giant lagoon, the Gambier Islands.  Sailing into the lagoon was like every movie you see of the beautiful landscapes of the South Pacific.  Tall mountains covered with forests looming over clear blue green waters with white sandy beaches.  Just amazing.  Here we were to visit Mangareva Island and the town of Rikitea.  Sparsely populated but very friendly people.  First, before disembarking from the ship, we had to wait for the local customs officers to come on board and stamp everyone’s passports.  They were late in getting to the ship so our time on the island was a bit short.

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The plan was to take the zodiacs to make a “dry” landing at the port of Rikitea.  Well, true the landing at the port was dry, but the zodiac ride through the lagoon to the port was about as wet as we had been.  May as well have swam to shore, if it were not for the distance.  At the port we were met by locals playing drums and flutes and ladies with flowered lays for each of us. 

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From the port we walked down the main road toward the Cathedral.  Built in the 19^th century by locals under the direction of the missionary priests.  Beautiful church with fabulous mother of pearl inlays in the alter.  It is said the church can hold services for 1,500. 

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In the courtyard of the church we were treated to various foods made from local fruits and vegetables, more breadfruit as well as coconut, guava, and others.  Then there was a dance demonstration.  Telling the story of Maui. 

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Following the demonstration, we made our way back to the port, stopping briefly to look at some local crafts.  Beautiful jewelry made of coral and black pearls.  Then another wet ride back to the ship.  Once there we stripped off our wet cloths, took nice hot showers and then enjoyed some mojitos and canapes in our suite.

From here we head south to the very distant and remote Austral Islands.  This will be two days at seas.  A time to relax, enjoy some quiet time before the next adventure.