We now have 7 boats here from the Arc at Rarotonga. It is a warm and friendly location. We have been challenged with getting off and on the boat due to the bouncy seas. But we have been enjoying the island, meeting the locals, and tasting the local foods. There are lots of good shops to reprovision and wonderful beaches and sand. Who knew this little gem of an island was out here in the Pacific? They have an airport and a large plane which has international flights. This could just be an alternate to some of the expensive vacations we have been used to expecting in French Polynesia. It might just be worth checking on anyway.
We probably will be staying here til the weekend. We hope to make a trip around the island. Some folks are taking a plane ride to survey the island. Other folks have been renting scooters pretty cheaply to see the island. The problem is to rent a car you have to get a license from Rarotonga which tacks on another $60. We may be using the public transportation here which is reliable.
Today Bill and Matt made some good deals getting some supplies for diving. They are excited to do some diving in Niue and some of the other islands in Tonga. Prices here are pretty good compared to Polynesia.
Today we had a local public broadcaster come and interview one of our sailors for the local show. We have been having lots of company from the locals to see all the boats from the World Arc moored here off the public dock. Seems to be an air of excitement and friendship in port.
More on Rarotonga tomorrow.
Rosemary