Sailing across the South Pacific conjures up images of remote idylls, azure seas and gentle days spent watching the ocean. Our morning was certainly living up to these impressions. Awakening to a day at sea we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in the outdoor café while a cooling breeze kept the temperature out on deck refreshing. Having been standing on the rim of a bubbling and boiling active volcano on Tanna Island the preceding evening, the serene morning proved quite a contrast.
Spending a day at sea on board National Geographic Orion often becomes an integral part of a Lindblad Expedition. Today we were proffered a wealth of knowledge and insight into many different aspects of this varied region of the South Pacific. Our expedition staff and guest speakers delivered an array of presentations. Having seen countless coconuts on this voyage it was an apt time to learn more about what the local islanders use this valuable plant for. Ian Bullock detailed its many different uses and how this “Tropical Treasure Tree” provides many of life’s necessities – a source of protein, a great hydrator and a varied building material, there is very little this plant is not used for on the islands we have visited. What’s more, it is never too early to enjoy a Pina Colada on board National Geographic Orion.
Whether it’s a Pina Colada or a coffee, Ray is always on hand at the bar to serve up whatever you wish. With our drinks in hand we settled down to enjoy Kevin Schafer’s insights into the challenges a photographer encounters when attempting to shoot great images out in the field. Having a National Geographic photographer accompanying us on our journey is a super addition to the trip and to listen to Kevin detail the more difficult aspects of his work reassured us that even the experts can find it difficult to get the perfect shot at times.
The great presentations continued throughout the day as Lida Teneva enlightened us as to the geology of this region; detailing more about the incredible volcano we encountered last night. Our guest speaker Yvonne Carillo-Huffman then delivered another fascinating cultural orientated talk about Fiji and its importance as a crossroads between Melanesia to the west and Polynesia to the east.
In between all these interesting and varied presentations there is of course time to enjoy all that National Geographic Orion has to offer. Whether relaxing in the Observation Lounge with a good book, enjoying a relaxing massage with Katrina our wellness specialist or taking the more energetic route and jumping on the treadmill in the gym, there is no shortage of amenities and luxuries on board to make a day at sea an excellent part of our trip.
Those of us who had been enjoying the luxuries of the Jacuzzi and the sun loungers on Deck 6 throughout the day had noticed a chill in the air compared to previous days. As such, our planned Pristine Seas Cocktail Party on Deck 6 was moved to the comfort of the lounge. While sipping blue tropical cocktails, guests listened to Mike and I detail the importance of Marine Protected areas and the Pristine Seas initiative, which Lindblad strongly supports. With the future of our oceans in mind, we headed down for another fabulous meal delivered by the first class galley team. It is safe to say that throughout our day at sea we have enjoyed all the finest things National Geographic Orion has to offer.
