Takaroa, Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia, 5/17/2023, National Geographic Orion
Aboard the
National Geographic Orion
French Polynesia & Pacific Islands
Today we had an expedition-style day ashore on Takaroa. We strolled through the small town, met the mayor, learned about copra production and pearl farming, and even visited a shipwreck from the early 1900s. In the afternoon, we got our feet wet while enjoying some relaxing beach time.
Berit grew up on the rocky shores of Marblehead, Massachusetts, where she explored the marine environment through changing tides and seasons, nurturing a love of natural history and marine biology.
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Today aboard National Geographic Orion, we spent the day in Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas Islands. Guests were treated to a birding tour and a cultural performance, including dancing and a demonstration on the creation of tapa cloth. Then, in the afternoon, we explored the scenic Hanavave Bay by kayaks. What fun!
Welcome to the mystical, magical islands of the Marquesas. Today, National Geographic Orion has arrived in the bay of Puamau on the island of Hiva Oa. We were welcomed by the local people with melodious music and leis, something we have been accustomed to with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions’ relationships and connections over the years with these amazing communities in this region. Unfortunately, this is bittersweet as this is our last visit for some time to come as we move on to other adventures. Guests were taken onto sacred grounds witnessing the spiritual power of these intimate places of solace and reverence. The tikis represent ancestors and warriors, with platforms representing royalty and kingship. It was a day filled with cultural experiences appreciated by all guests.
Kaoha nui! We started off today with perfect snorkeling conditions on the western side of Mohotani. The visibility was excellent, and we even stumbled upon some octopuses in the middle of a romantic rendezvous – nature’s soap opera! After lunch, Captain Alex and Expedition Leader Lisle made the call to do Zodiac cruises around Fatu Huku and the experience was simply wonderful. We wrapped things up with cocktails and the captain’s farewell dinner. What a wonderful day full of exploration, adventure, and unforgettable memories!
