12 boats in the World ARC fleet made the trip to Port Resolution Bay, which is located on the east coast of Tanna, one of Vanuatu's southern islands. A little-known fact is that it was named after Captain Cook’s ship “The Resolution”, which sailed into the bay in 1774, attracted by the fiery glow of the volcano!
It was a tick off the bucket list for many of the rally participants, as they got to stand within metres of the world’s most accessible active volcano at Mt Yasur in Tanna, Vanuatu.
With the whiff of sulphur in the air and the whooshing, roaring sounds happening around them, they looked on avidly as the bright orange fireworks of lava periodically exploded in front of their eyes. Some visitors find Mt Yasur nerve-wracking, for others it’s captivating
watching nature at its most ferocious. The
best times to visit are just before sunrise or just after sunset, as the
colours spiralling out of the darkness are absolutely stunning.
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As the group headed up to Mt Yasur volcano, they stopped at Kastom Village where they were met by villagers in traditional dress. I don't think anyone anticipated how culturally different the outer islands of Vanuatu could be, where they still hold on to very traditional values.
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Jacqueline Kirkpatrick from Fatjax found the village gathering of the two cultures very personal. She says, “Entering the village the ladies shared their face paint with us. I felt they were sharing a part of themselves in an open, honest exchange of goodwill. It was a very moving experience. The lady gently held my face in her hands without smiling or speaking as she pressed her checks against mine, then looking me in the eyes, she pressed her forehead against mine. I felt very accepted.
“When we danced with the group, we were told the dancing represented the sounds of the volcano which was visible in the background. I interpreted this dancing as an acknowledgement of the volcano, singing with the rumblings and vibrations as we jumped and moved around in two circles. The inner circle represented the belly of the volcano with its strength and heat.
“I danced barefoot as is the tradition. This connection with the rich fertile earth the volcano had made and the chanting as we circled in front of the volcano felt like an acceptance of this mighty force. The volcano towers proudly, glowing and hissing, reminding me that nothing is permanent, and all life should be respected.”
Port Resolution
Another incredibly touching day for the World ARC rally participants was when they were officially welcomed by the villagers from Port Resolution, who presented them with grass garlands and hats made from coconut palms.
In a moving ceremony, they exchanged gifts with the villagers and the school children also sang a beautiful welcome song.
Many useful items had been specifically purchased for this visit, such as clothes, bedding, stationery and schoolbooks. They also donated pre-loved boating items such as ropes and lines, useful for so many things, not least swings for the kids!
The day culminated with a feast, prepared by the villagers and served at the Yacht Club, as the sun set and the nearby Mount Yasur smouldered away.
There was a final surprise when the boats clubbed together and presented over US$1,000 to Werry for the primary school. Werry, who organises the tours and is also a governor of the school was overwhelmed by this generous donation and said it would be used to build dormitories for the school.
What an unforgettable stopover this has been for everyone.