This morning we awoke at anchor beside the biggest of the beautiful Trobriand Islands. For almost 50 years I have told Jo of the friendly people here so we were really looking forward to our day here. At 7:00 am we set off in the chopper for a short sightseeing flight then landed at a village where met the paramount chief of the islands. Again the villagers were very welcoming and one guy who Jo chatted to for 10 minutes gave her a carved mask in appreciation of her friendship.

Later in the morning I enjoyed a 700m swim in 27 deg, 135m deep water to the beach where I joined the shore excursion around the local village. We received a colourful dance ceremony performed by scantily clad young men and women then had an hour to shop at about 50 small stall selling hand carved goods.

Welcome to the Trobriand Islands

The array of goods included bowls, tables, walking sticks, shields, face masks, and many small ornamental items. Of course we bought a few.

A small girl and her Mum selling craft goods

For the afternoon shore excursion I paddled a SUP to the beach and was met by a large group of young children and teenagers who were waiting on the beach when they saw me coming. For the next 1 ½ hours most of our group participated in a game of traditional cricket, which is based on English cricket but has been modified significantly and is used as entertainment and a means of dispute settlement throughout the “Trobes”. It was great fun for all with the locals enjoying it as much as the visitors. While that was going on I spent about an hour giving SUP rides to the kids, who adapted very easily to the SUP because of their canoeing experience. Great fun for all.

Then back on board it was interesting to see a slide show of the snorkeling trips over the past few days, especially to see the colours and variety of fish and coral. I’ll try to get a copy. Before we knew it another great dinner was served and then it was time for bed before 9 pm.