Kennedy Island, Solomon Islands
Our last day in the Solomon Islands was in true expedition style. To some this meant that we had little idea about what would happen next. To others it meant that we were at the whim of the elements and the wildlife, both of which are at best unpredictable.
We started the day in Blackett Strait, a narrow passage of water where we had hoped to Zodiac and kayak. However, a tropical rainstorm dampened this plan and we moved onto the tiny sandy islet of Kennedy Island. By now the rainstorm had passed and we went ashore and snorkeled the coral seascape among abundant and diverse fish life, while others dived or enjoyed the marine life without getting wet from the glass bottom boat.
We left the beach and set a course for the south-west and the Laughlan Islands in Papua New Guinea. As the sun was setting (albeit behind the clouds) the watchers on the bridge reported several whale blows in the distance and we altered course for a closer look. As we approached we realized that we were looking at blue whales, a remarkable rare sighting in this region and a rare privilege to see this enormous animal whose populations are so depleted by past whaling. It was also a valuable reminder that you never really know what is going to happen next on a Lindblad expedition; often the reward is something truly extraordinary when least expected.
Our last day in the Solomon Islands was in true expedition style. To some this meant that we had little idea about what would happen next. To others it meant that we were at the whim of the elements and the wildlife, both of which are at best unpredictable.
We started the day in Blackett Strait, a narrow passage of water where we had hoped to Zodiac and kayak. However, a tropical rainstorm dampened this plan and we moved onto the tiny sandy islet of Kennedy Island. By now the rainstorm had passed and we went ashore and snorkeled the coral seascape among abundant and diverse fish life, while others dived or enjoyed the marine life without getting wet from the glass bottom boat.
We left the beach and set a course for the south-west and the Laughlan Islands in Papua New Guinea. As the sun was setting (albeit behind the clouds) the watchers on the bridge reported several whale blows in the distance and we altered course for a closer look. As we approached we realized that we were looking at blue whales, a remarkable rare sighting in this region and a rare privilege to see this enormous animal whose populations are so depleted by past whaling. It was also a valuable reminder that you never really know what is going to happen next on a Lindblad expedition; often the reward is something truly extraordinary when least expected.
