23 Oct 2017

Tasting Local Delicacy on Faumamanu Island

DAY 3: MALAITA ISLAND

Another great start to the day, with a refreshing snorkelling excursion to Leli Island. Meanwhile, our birding group had been driven in the back of a truck into the hills of Malaita Island, adding to the growing species list with sightings including the Duchess Lorikeet and Red-vested myzomela, a species rarely seen by birders. It was a special delight for dedicated bird watcher Elaine, as it marked the 7,700th bird she had seen on her travels around the world.

Before lunch we were treated to a viewing of the National Geographic documentary, The Lost Fleet of Guadalcanal, which aimed to film many of the battleships sunk during WWII. In the afternoon it was time to board the Zodiacs again and make our way to Faumamanu Island, where we were greeted by a group of warriors, a re-enactment of how they would scrutinize who was visiting their shores in past times.

It was obvious that we had come in peace, so we then received a warm welcome with delightful song and dance performances with native pan pipes and the local church choir. We were taken on a tour of the village and learned how they live, and were able to sample some traditional dishes of mangrove root, coconut cream and clam. Finally, before leaving the island, we were invited to join in a farewell dance, which many joined with gusto to show our appreciation for their friendship and hospitality.

Back on board, Dan, one of our naturalists, gave a presentation on Cetaceans of the South Pacific showing us what to look out for during our time here. Before dinner, we received another recap from our expedition leader Nathan, recounting the day’s activities and our plans for tomorrow.
The Spirit of Enderby then set course for our next destination, the island of Makira, while we slept, dreaming of our encounters and the possibilities that await on our journey.

Written by Kris Madden