Cruise World-Day18- Rangiora, French Polynesia
Today we visited Rangiora, French Polynesia's largest atoll, known for its white sand, black pearls, and multihued blue lagoon, the 2nd largest in the world. Lush, unspoiled Rangiora is part of the Tuamotu Islands, an archipelago of 77 atolls.
As always, I was up on deck for the sail-in as we dropped anchor in the vast bright turquoise lagoon. The clear blue skies and calm water brought a smile to all those on deck. We watched another ship navigate the narrow strip between the two passes that connect the lagoon to the ocean. It was the Oceania Marina on a 17-day from San Diego to Tahiti.
I took a 9:15AM tender into Avatoru, the only town. I explored the circular island on foot along the paved road lined with homes, churches, tiny shops, and a few island-style government buildings. Here life's pace has slowed to a halt--even the dogs prefer napping to other activities. The island is laid back and the people are warm; each time a resident passed me, they shouted "bonjour!" Front yards of houses featured bicycles, boats, colorful laundry lines, plastic chairs, and even ladies selling shell jewelry. I bought a long shell necklace for 300 French Tahitian Francs ($3ish).
The sound of roosters crowing could be heard throughout the island. I saw few motorists in 4-wheel drives--mostly they bicycle everywhere. The church steeple peaks out above the trees and can even be seen from our moored ship. I felt moments of bliss as I explored this sweet destination.
Musicians performed as we disembarked the tender boat. They waved good bye as we departed.
I couldn't live here but I could certainly spend a few days here from time to time, disconnecting from life's demands.
After the sail-away party, a group of us spent 2 hours chasing the sunset. The ship's maneuver out of the passage was entertaining.
They showed the film, South Pacific, in the theatre 3X.
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