Saturday, April 22, 2017

All good things must come to an end

Day 7 of a 7-day Fiji Islands cruise

Our final day had us sailing the Bligh Water, named after Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame.



We stopped at the north coast of Viti Levu. Our morning was spent at the south beach of Nananu-I-Ra island, where we were able to snorkel or enjoy other beach activities. Some were in the shade reading books, while others were off in kayaks or using the paddle boards. Some of the passengers, who had never used paddle boards before, took to them quickly and really had fun with them.

By the afternoon the ship had moved to the north beach of the same island. Again, beach activities or dedicated snorkelling were available. Some of us were appreciating a more relaxed schedule, as our week had been a busy one.

Our final evening meal was a Pacific Island dinner. We were encouraged to wear our Fijian wear for this special night.


Here I'm with Ilesone, one of the activity directors. This was his first cruise with Captain Cook Cruises and he did an excellent job, mentored by the experienced activity director. His first-hand knowledge of life growing up in Fiji in traditional tribal communities was so interesting, as well as educational. For those who know me well ... yes, I'm actually wearing a dress!


At dinner, we sat with the two couples we'd spent most time with, and we really enjoyed their company.

After dinner the crew put on a show. The Salt Water Cowboys (men) danced, as did the women. The man in green in the photo is playing the traditional drum, made of a hollowed-out tree. It was a similar show to what we'd experienced at events on land.


This was followed by music and dancing.


Some of our New Zealand passengers (which includes the guitarist) sang some traditional songs of their country. The night ended with some farewell time of sharing kava.


The next morning, after breakfast and a farewell concert on deck, we disembarked, sharing hugs and handshakes with the crew. An unforgettable cruise. A group of nine travel agents were on our cruise, previewing for their customers. I asked one of them for her opinion of this special colonial cruise. She said she'd been on many cruises, but none came close to this experience. We agree.

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