Takapoto Atoll, Tuamoto Archipelago, French Poloynesia
Today we enjoyed another great day in paradise. An early wake-up call urged the photographers among us to come out on deck to greet the day. As the National Geographic Endeavour approached Takapoto Atoll, the rising sun painted the clouds with subtle pastels.
Following breakfast we landed at the main village of Fakatopatere to find an amazing welcome. Once ashore, we walked to the main square where we were greeted by music, dancing, and demonstrations of their rich culture. It was a real extravaganza as everyone was so colorful and friendly. The highlight of the morning was the javelin throwing, a contest where the men threw long spears trying to hit a coconut suspended on a tall pole.
With flat, calm seas and clear blue water, we spent the afternoon exploring the underwater world. The snorkel platform was set along the barrier reef, and the glass bottom boat toured the shallows. Meanwhile our intrepid divers explored the deeper parts of the reef system.
The day was capped off with sundown cocktails on shore. A huge thunderhead lit up the sky behind the ship, a fitting end to another amazing day exploring the South Seas.
Today we enjoyed another great day in paradise. An early wake-up call urged the photographers among us to come out on deck to greet the day. As the National Geographic Endeavour approached Takapoto Atoll, the rising sun painted the clouds with subtle pastels.
Following breakfast we landed at the main village of Fakatopatere to find an amazing welcome. Once ashore, we walked to the main square where we were greeted by music, dancing, and demonstrations of their rich culture. It was a real extravaganza as everyone was so colorful and friendly. The highlight of the morning was the javelin throwing, a contest where the men threw long spears trying to hit a coconut suspended on a tall pole.
With flat, calm seas and clear blue water, we spent the afternoon exploring the underwater world. The snorkel platform was set along the barrier reef, and the glass bottom boat toured the shallows. Meanwhile our intrepid divers explored the deeper parts of the reef system.
The day was capped off with sundown cocktails on shore. A huge thunderhead lit up the sky behind the ship, a fitting end to another amazing day exploring the South Seas.
