We return to Port Vila on a very historical day for Vanuatu
30 October 2012 | Port Vila
Carolyn
We have returned to our favourite port in the South Pacific just in time for the historical 10th Vanuatu election. A public holiday was called to ensure all of the 192,000 voters had the opportunity to cast their vote. We will be fascinated to follow the outcome over the next few days, Neither of the two major parties can govern on their own and the 'winner' will need to form a coalition with any one of the 30 odd parties/independents also contesting the right to determine the country's future. Everywhere we have been these past six weeks all anyone can talk about is the election - no voter apathy here!
Before we left Luganville, Espirito Santo, Dave dived on the USS President Coolidge three days before it celebrated its 70th anniversary of being consigned to the depths on October 26th, 1942.
The next day we had to say goodbye to our friends on Rutea and Merkava as they were bound for Australia and we left with Sarah Jean II. (we then had to say goodbye to Norm and Beth as they left Port Vila for NZ yesterday). On our way south we visited Ambyrn Island renowned for its very active twin volcanoes, black sand beaches and geothermal activity, megapodes (fascinating birds), kastom dancing with masks, slit gong drums (tam tams), carvings and sand drawings. Due to its volcanic activity it is also the home of the most potent black magicians.
Unfortunately (or thankfully) we just saw the volcanoes, black sand beaches, and some wonderful carvings. We'll have to go back there again to experience more of its unique allure.
We also popped into Epi again (but to a bay further south than where we saw the massive turtles and dugong) and on our way there Carolyn finally landed a mahimahi - a good-sized male who put her through her paces.
Our plans are to leave Port Vila - and Vanuatu - tomorrow morning and head to Noumea. The trip should take us 48-96 hours (wind and current dependent and so we should arrive sometime between Saturday midday and Monday morning.
We will then spend a few days exploring before our wonderful crew Lance and Keith join us on the 17th for the passage home.
Until we reach Noumea,
Ata,
Carolyn and Dave
(photo is of Carolyn with her mahimahi. Photos of Dave's dive on the USS President Coolidge and Ambrym shots loaded seperately below).