Early this morning, we arrived at the Tuamotu Archipelago, a completely different landscape than what we have experienced previously on this voyage. As we approached Rangiroa atoll and entered the pass, a single bottlenose dolphin came to escort us into the lagoon. With a strong outgoing tide and standing waves, the dolphin surfed our bow and did some spectacular leaps.

We spent the whole day exploring this glorious island. SCUBA divers did multiple dives while snorkelers enjoyed “The Aquarium,” where the volume of fish is off the charts. We also went ashore. Some of us took a casual stroll, and others were enticed by the black pearl.

Too soon, it was time to head out of Rangiroa and on towards Makatea!