05 Nov 2023

Ancient customs and snorkelling pristine reefs at Loh Island

After a smooth night aboard Heritage Adventurer crossing from Lata in the morning, we ventured to the shores of Loh Island in the Torres Island group of Vanuatu.

Our Zodiacs took us through a gap in the reef into a beautiful lagoon where we were met by crowds of locals who boarded our boats to give us all a faux scary, but ultimately very friendly, welcome to their island. We walked through an arch and were all given leis of Frangipani and Bougainvillea flowers. The sides of the path to the village were decorated with beautiful flower arrangements that incorporated many of the local blossoms.

Once at the village, we were privileged to witness ancient dances performed by men, women and children. We had the opportunity and pleasure to participate in one of those dances. We were also invited to taste some of the local fruits and enjoyed fresh coconuts to drink.

While the birders went in search of new species, others went to explore a cave the locals use to shelter from cyclones. We were all very grateful for this incredible experience and hospitality as we learned we were the island's first ship visitors since Heritage Adventurer weighed anchor 363 days ago.

After lunch, the adventurous among us had the opportunity to snorkel an incredible underwater world of sprawling corals teeming with colourful fish. Back on board Heritage Adventurer we enjoyed lectures with Bruce on WWII history, Valerie on Chocolate and Rod on Island Dispersal.

A real high on Loh Island.