Blogs from Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia, Oceania - page 3

After 9 days at sea it was nice to have our feet on terra firma again! Having visited Nuku Hiva already, we decided to do something different this time. The ship arrived in Taiohoe (the main town on Nuku Hiva). The town is located in a volcanic crater which has partly collapsed into the ocean, creating the bay where we were anchored. As the town is completely surrounded by a volcanic rim, in order to spread our wings, we had to climb over it. We chose to do this at a low point in the next bay along the coast. We walked the full length of the bay and headed uphill on a dirt track road, passing the island's only flash hotel on the way. The climb thereafter became quite steep but we did pass some ... read more

From the Middle of Nowhere Here we are, Jan. 17th, still two days from land. We haven’t seen any thing other than some frigate birds, a few flying fish, and a school of dolphins. No other ships, and no land at all for a week. On Saturday we arrive at Nuka Hiva where there are no roads, as such, but a few friendly natives probably selling trinkets. Everyone will be so glad to get off the ship that he or she will no doubt buy anything. We have gone to several lectures and talks about the planets, the upcoming ports, managing pain of arthritis, healthy foods, navigation and security on board, buying diamonds, even an art auction that Brigid and I went to and had a few laughs as the auctioneer kept saying “I can do ... read more

Nuku Hiva is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re looking for pristine beaches and shopping opportunities, this island isn’t for you. But, for pure wildness and sense of place, Nuku Hiva tops my list. Horses run free on grassy mountain slopes that overlook an island blessedly free from resort development. On this trip to French Polynesia’s northernmost island, Regent has arranged a Mini-Festival of Arts as a complimentary event for all passengers. It simulates the Marquesas Festival of Arts, a celebration of culture and traditions that takes place once every four years. Rain obliterates my view of the harbor when I peak out the window this morning although I can see the small yachts and sailing ships anchored close-by. Hoping for the best, Alan and I prepare to take the tender to shore. Bu... read more

We reached our first port today, Nuku Hiva. This is an un-touristy island in the Marquesas, the northernmost island group in French Polynesia. I think the ship stops here to give those craving land a chance to stand on terra firma. There is very little to see except the lush landscape and a very slow-paced way of life. We took the ship’s excursion to the Taipavai Valley. Women residents greeted us with singing and placed leis around our necks as we stepped ashore from the ship’s tender. Our tour was a caravan of local 4-wheel drive vehicles led by a main guide who spoke some English. Alan and I traveled in a Toyota mini truck with a guide who spoke no English. We stopped at two Catholic churches, the main buildings on the island with any ... read more