- HOME
- |
- VOYAGES
- |
- CHARTER
- |
- SHIP & CREW
- |
- VOYAGE LOGS
- |
- TRACK SOREN
- |
- BOOK NOW
Vanuatu Discovery 2011 - Santo to Port Vila
V338 - Southwards from Santo - Marsha's Blog Part 1
Embarking on a new journey is always exciting. Especially when it’s a beautiful sunny day and there is a nice fresh breeze. We left Luganville and the island of Espiritu Santo for the last time with 18 new voyage crew and some new crew. Captain Jaap left us in Santo and we’re now joined by Shetlander, Matt Chpaman who has been with the ship for a good few years. George our first mate is off on his next adventure and Maho has moved up from 2nd to 1st mate. Elliott, an familiar face around here, is taking over as 2nd mate and Mary a new face is now joining Sione in the Galley to keep all our tummies happy. Our 18 voyage crew this time round consists of people from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Holland, New Zealand, Norway and the UK. We have a few returning and a bunch of new hands all ready and eager to learn the ropes.
One of our first stops was the village of Asanvari. We were given a very warm welcome. A small trek through the forest and along the rocky coastline led us to a beautiful waterfall cascading over black volcanic rock. It was a bit on the refreshing side of cool but we could have stayed there for hours.
The snorkelling here was great! Not so much in the way of coral but the volcanic shores gave way to interesting caverns and canyons to explore with tons of fish! Three big rays were spotted and a turtle or two.
In the afternoon we all gathered at the yacht club for some custom dancing. In traditional garb with feathers and leaves sticking out everywhere the very old and the extremely young danced round and round and up and down to the sound of a lone drummer and loud voices from the elders. The welcome dance at the end had a bit of audience participation and wee all ended up dancing round the drummers skipping faster and faster. It was great fun. That evening a mighty feast was had with a delicious pig, caught fresh that morning, being the center of the display.
The next morning we went ashore once more. This time for a bit of light shopping. Normally when we visit villages they set out their wears on mats and tables for us to look at. This time it was our turn to set out the school supplies, personal hygiene items and clothing we had. We traded for intricately weaved baskets and bags and Liz scored an expertly done mat.
Once we were back on board it was time to head off to Ambrym. Everyone is really excited for our stop in Ambrym. It’s mysterious coastline and towering volcanoes just beckon to be explored. I think we’re up to the challenge.
Before leaving off I’d like to send a massive thanks to Dave Cross and the rest of the staff at the Beachfront Hotel in Luganville. Thanks to all your help. You’re very knowledgeable and your kindness is unmatched. Søren Larsen is lucky to have friends like you in such an amazing place. Hopefully we’ll see you again soon!
Till next time, Fair Winds my Friends
Marsha Book, Purser.
See the whole V338 Image Gallery HERE ..