Mt Yasur
11 August 2013 | Tana Island
Bill
We were blown away last night by the spectacle of Mt Yasur. Our boat has been getting covered in ash daily and you could hear the mountain growling whenever you would listen but still did not prepare us for the experience. The truck ride was the first trip this was only 30 minutes but on a modified path washed out in several places through villages where people came out to wave or look at the passing truck. At the base there was a big sign BE CAREFUL (no explanation) and by the sight of large boulders in the parking area we got the idea our guide recommended looking up rather than running if a large blast occurred, we decided to stay close to him. Nearly 70 people from all over the island had come for sunset and to witness the night show. As darkness approached on the clear night the mountain seemed to ramp up it's activity and several times as you looked into the crater the blasts of ash, rock lava and smoke would rise above our heads in a indescribable roar. On the big blast the whole group would lunge back and the guides would smile. No one fell in all were amazed and thankful for the opportunity to see this sight. Update on the other 2 boats who traveled with us from Fiji one lost there engine and is still trying to get in 3 days later ( they were only 25 miles off shore on Fri am when the wind shifted) and the other boat had one injury during the storm and diverted for medical attention to Port Vila. Thankfully no serious problems and all is well. We depart this am to Tual Indonesia about 2300 miles if the wind holds 3 weeks. here is to fair winds and following seas.