12 Oct 2014

Pai Island Dancers

We have just spent an exceptionally invigorating day visiting the small islands of Bipi and Pai, where the ship was surrounded by a flotilla of dugout canoes as we came to anchor. Snorkelling was the first activity of the day and most were soon absorbed in the world beneath the waves. Floating gently along the reef edge on Bipi Island we were treated to fantastic visibility and sightings of numerous species including Parrot and Anemone Fish as well as some beautiful soft corals. Our activity was of great interest to the local children who flocked into the water to join in and watch what we were doing, which added a whole new dimension to the experience! After lunch all the Zodiacs departed for Pai Island a little further away and before long the craft were pulling up on the beautiful white sand beach where the entire population turned out to welcome us.

The dancing proceeded apace with the rhythmic beating of the drums setting feet and hips into action in a frenzy of activity. A more genuine and heartfelt welcome could not be imagined as our hosts took us on a tour of the island. We eventually bid farewell to our new friends and returned to the Spirit of Enderby for dinner.