After Moorea we had a relatively long (12 hour) passage to our next destination, Rangiroa, a string of coral atoll islands in the shape of a pearl necklace. On our approach, the Captain announced that we would have to "run the rapids" to get into the lagoon where we would anchor.
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| Entrance to the Lagoon |
The captain wasn't kidding - it was a wild ride.
Once we tendered ashore I could see this was going to be one of my favorite islands. The pier had no tourist junk at all and nothing but two open-air cafes, one on either side of the one road.
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| Pier at Avatoru, Rangiroa |
We started walking along the gravel road. Here is a typical house on this island.
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| House on Rangiroa |
There wasn't a whole lot to see along the road, except gorgeous tropical flowers...
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| Plumeria (Frangipani) |
Giggling girls...
and palm trees.
After about 15 minutes we had reached the other side of the island and were back where our ship ran the rapids - the Blue Lagoon.
What a gorgeous spot! White coral beach, turquoise water, frigate birds and DOLPHINS.
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| Frigate Bird at the Blue Lagoon |
This dolphin family loved to surf! We watched them for over a half hour and I was so, so happy to remember I had a video feature on my camera! Totally made my day.
Right near this beach was a big sign about the dolphins (in French and English) in an effort to protect them from meddling humans.
After all this excitement, and sitting in the brilliant sun for too long, we headed back down the road to the village. We chose the open air restaurant which had seating right above the water. Several other diners were throwing french fries in the water so we got a really good look at the amazing amount and variety of fish in the clear blue water. We even saw several Sting Rays but I wasn't fast enough to capture them in a photo.
There were so many different kinds I can't even begin to identify them all.
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| Butterfly and other fish |
Someone said these were reef sharks, but I don't see a dorsal fin. They were big.
We had a fabulous (fish) lunch and Jim went back to the ship while I enjoyed swimming in the amazing water. I wanted to stay in the water all afternoon but the tropical sun and my skin don't get along so well so I had to bid this peaceful and lovely place adieu.
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| Leaving the Lagoon |
To me Rangiroa will always be a magical place because of the dolphins. I know I will be back here one day.
Next, Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas.
Audrey
