So I'm at sea! first time i've had internet access, and its a quickie. I had to write the blog post for the sea site, so i'm just going to c&p it here. so far though, its been an amazing expierience. sea sickness, swaying tables, and lots of salt water... finally starting to getting the hang of line handling and setting and striking the sails, and "winlking" and processing neuston tows/meter nets. I'll update with something more substantial later, but for now, here's my other post:
Taihoe Bay, Nuka Hiva
Our trip at sea has been a constant progression of learning and adventure since we set foot on the Robert C. Seamans, today certainly did not deviate.
Having arrived at Taihoe Bay last night at 1930, we have been surrounded by one of the most picturesque scenes of tropical paradise. The valley itself is more populated and developed in contrast to the little houses in Haukai Bay, with a decently sized market, several little shops, and paved roads. Taihoe Bay, also known as Nuka Hiva Bay in Herman Melville’s Typee is the stereotypical remnant of a volcanic crater with high mountains dramatically encircling the majority of the bay. Waves gently broke upon the iron enriched red beach. Coconut palms, mango, and breadfruit trees lined the streets, interspersed with colorful flowers. The air was laced with the delicate fragrance of the white gardenia flowers associated with the French Polynesian image of paradise. It’s become increasingly clear why Melville chose to abandon ship to live on one of earth’s most beautiful treasures. Hopefully, none of us will follow suit.
Upon landing ashore, our group was formally welcomed by the Nuka Hiva Tourism Office. It was a quiet affair in which Jan Witting (our Chief Scientist) and Paul Hiva (our Polynesian Teaching Fellow) received necklaces. This simple act of hospitality has become synonymous with the people of Polynesia. As our group meandered through the little town up the main road, we were constantly being greeted and waved to by curious bystanders. After a brief talk at the local church, everyone split up into different groups. While some had a class at a small café with Mary, others prepared for a small presentation at a local middle school and the rest were set free to explore the island.
After our free time, everyone made their way to the dock and made it back to the ship. We were quickly followed by 15 teenagers from the local agricultural school, where Alison, Sonya, Cloe, Tristan, Owen, and Monty had previously presented. As everyone crowded aboard our ship endearingly nicknamed “Momma Seamans,” we were graciously treated to several songs. The performance was unforgettable with their voices, guitars, and drums filling the entire boat. With some cold lemonade and brownies in hand they quickly became our friends and they left after many goodbyes.
If that was not enough, we had yet another guest aboard our ship who very generously answered all our questions regarding sustainability in Nuka Hiva. Although the mayor of Nuka Hiva had intended to welcome us, he was ironically heading back to Papeete where our journey began and sent one of his assistants. After she left, the students on starboard watch went back to shore to spend the night on their own, while the designated port students conduct anchor watches tonight.
Aside from all the formal activities, tonight has also marked another important milestone for my life at sea. Along with Jenny, Eric, Amber, and Alison, I went aloft the forem’st. Climbing 90ft+ above the ship. It was extraordinary as it was just about dusk when we spotted an eagle ray gliding through the water.
With so many memorable experiences today, this trip has quickly become one of the most action packed adventures of my life. As I sit writing this blog entry, the moon is full, the stars are bright, and the sea is calm. There really is no other comparison for the beauty of French Polynesia. The people are sincere, genuine, and friendly, and the landscape is unparalleled in its tropical beauty. There is no other place I’d rather be in February than Nuka Hiva with its tranquil 82° nights.
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