UA HUKA

UA HUKA
Getting tired of these early am "barge calls" , disembarked at 7:30 am in a charming town of Vaipaee on the island of Ua Huka. We 4x4 in the residents trucks to Botanical gardens near by. The drives along this island are spectacular with beautiful Ocean scenery. We learned about medicinal plant medicines and fruits of  the region. Then....off to a Hike! My 4th hike in 4 days  ......thru a forest and up to another ceremonial site of early Polynesians. Hiking in these islands is a challenge...but we made it and returned to the trucks and they took us to a big community center, where the local "mamas" prepared a great varied lunch. Steve is in love with the raw fish that was served. After lunch we had a beautiful drive back to the barges...
Once aboard, the tiredness set in and we both crashed for a bit. Tonight was the big Polynesian dinner and dance......and about an hour before we went to it, we heard they threat of rain chased the event indoors. But, it was actually ok for the guest, although I am sure the staff has to hustle to get it all changed around. Then we had some great entertainment from a local dance group...and they picked some ladies to get up and follow the leader..yeah, you know I was there dancing.  
The crew and staff of this ship goes all out, all the time...and it shows. At our daily planning meeting tonight we heard the Aranui was going to commission another ship just for passengers and take over 600 people on island tours.  I just dont think it will   same without all the freight.  And I am glad we booked this before it changes so drastically.