March 27, 2010
From the first sight of land and the rising sun above Huahine Island, We knew it was going to be a great day. We have truly arrived in paradise. We docked in the town of Uturoa, on the island of Raiatea, a place where they use to perform human sacrifices as part of their ceremonial rites before European missionaries put a stop to it. Raiatea is known as the sacred island, home of many Polynesian legends. In the village of Taputapuatea, ancient priests from some of the most remote and distant regions would meet. Taputapuatea’s temples (marae) were regarded as the United Nations of the South Pacific.
Our learned word of the day, Ia orana (good morning in Tahitian). Our guide and Captain for the day, Bruno Fabre of “L’excursion bleue” greeted us dock side in his outrigger canoe (for 12) and we began an incredible journey. We boated across the bay to the island of Tahaa and proceeded to circle it with stops along the way, looking for good snorkeling sites. We finally stopped on a little motu (small island) named Tuuvahine where we saw some of the most incredible fish and reef life. After yesterdays water experience, John was a little gun shy but this time, the water was clear, smooth as glass and 86 degrees. Needless to say, we had a wonderful time.
After snorkeling we moved on to the next motu and had Champagne, Rum Punch and the most amazing meal of fresh caught Marlin Fritters, Coconut Bread, fresh Marlin Ceviche, yams and a smothered fish in an onion and ginger sauce. We also stopped at a Vanilla Farm as well as a Black Pearl Farm, two of Tahiti’s largest industries. We returned to the ms Rotterdam full, tired and loaded with many very fond memories.
Sun rise over Huahine Island!
Our outrigger canoe!
Tahaa resort with Bora Bora in the back ground.
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