AVATIU, RAROTONGA, COOK ISLANDS –

UNSPOILED PARADISE!

Saturday, February 1, 2025, 6 AM, 70 Degrees, 94% Humidity W – S 1.4 mph

The official Rarotonga website proudly declares that there is no McDonald's on the island and no building higher than a palm tree! Rarotonga is the largest of the 15 Cook Islands, and with 10,898 inhabitants, it represents 75% of the Island's total population. The Cook Islands are a self-governing Associate State of New Zealand.

Fletcher Christian of Mutiny on the Bounty fame sailed by Rarotonga in 1789 but the first European credited with “discovering” the island was Capt. John Dibby on the Endeavor in 1823. He was transporting missionary John Williams. By 1851, missionaries had converted most of the natives to Christianity and, in order to curb “Carnal Desires,” mandated modest dressing, and no dancing or drums. Fortunately, their culture was able to survive! They are known for the beautiful Tivaevae they make, which combine quilting skills brought by the missionaries with the colors and stories of their traditional legends.

Tender Boats are used to access the island. More often than not, operations are aborted due to sea conditions. Except for a short period when the Tender Boat operations were suspended, and the Zuiderdam had to reposition due to a large swell, our operations went smoothly. It was different several years ago when rapidly changing currents caused a Tender Boat to run up on the reef in the narrow harbor, and passengers had to walk to shore!

The people of Rarotonga have a wonderful life philosophy. They greet each other with “May you live a long and fulfilling life.”