On cruise day 6 we arrived at the Arawe Islands, at the south western end of New Britain. After a rocky night and traveling it was nice in a fairly calm bay.

The day stared with an early morning helicopter flight that was supposed to be for an hour but cloud cover prevented us from going where the pilot had intended so it was shortened to 30 minutes. We didn’t mind as the scenery was still interesting; we even saw a whale.

A tropical paradise

During the morning snorkeling trip the coral was a little different in that there was much more soft coral than we had seen in other places. There we still lots of fish and even a sea snake about 2 m long. The highlight of this trip was visit by about 8 local kids and adults on their outrigger canoes while we were in the water. While most continued snorkeling I talked to the kids from the water. They seemed to enjoy my attempted pigin discussion; well they laughed a lot so I think they enjoyed it.

Having fun with local kids

We spent a couple of hours in the village on the nearby island where we were made unbelievably welcome. The whole village, or so it seemed, met us on the beach with much frivolity, welcome dancing and impromptu singing. They didn’t know we were coming until we arrived almost on their door step at dawn the festivities were unplanned.

We found ourselves surrounded by hundreds of children and adults, many of whom could speak quite good English and were keen practice as much as possible. Girls and women adopted Jo and a separate, smaller, group took me under their wing.

Chatting with locals during an impromptu village tour

They showed us their school and church as we walked around the village.

Proud students showing us their classroom

Spontaneous singing happened all over the place; obviously singing is a big part of their life.

Eventually they walked us back to the beach and onto our boats.

Walking down hill on a slippery track – with eager helpers

Some of Ted’s guides during the village tour

It was a wonderful experience and just the kind of experience that I have told Jo about and was so keen to share with her.

It was sad to leave the villagers, even if it meant that we could enjoy a hot shower, lovely meal in air conditioned comfort and a soft bed in our own cabin.