I woke at 5AM for sunrise and to watch as the ship neared Bora Bora, circled around the reef to the only entry into the lagoon. The entry to the lagoon was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers during WWII. They also brought electricity, built an airport, roads and other infrastructure. The Bora Borans are very fond of Americans.
Bora Bora has a dramatic and distinctive landscape. A mountain juts up in the center of the main part of the island. It is visible no matter where you are. The water surrounding the island is deep turquoise. Huts on stilts extend far into the water.
When the ship was well into the lagoon I went back to sleep and didn’t get up until 9. Then it was off to the island.
On every island we visited, local musicians, and sometimes dancers, greeted us. The Bora Bora musicians were the most talented (but not the most enthusiastic, that honor goes to Rangiroa). No doubt this is because Bora Bora is a major tourist hub. Everything about it confirms that. Right next to the dock is a large, permanent craft center (everywhere else it has been a few tents). Of course, I had to enter it and immediately purchased a few items. There is a formal taxi stand and loads of water taxis. Three ships were in port, the first time we’ve experienced that—we were always the only ship.
As a headed down the main street there was a large crowd outside the church. I arrived just in time to see the bride and groom exit the church and enter a car festooned with balloons. Everyone, except for the bride and groom, wore yellow. Not just the bridal party but all of the guests. Many sported elaborate floral wreaths and fabulous shell jewelry. They headed over to a massive tent next to the dock. The entire afternoon I could hear speeches delivered, music playing and the chatter of celebrants.
Close to the pier are dozens of stores selling high quality black pearls. I window shopped, but didn’t enter any of the shops, everything was far more expensive than I am willing to spend. The jewelry was very high quality. Perfect pearls in an array of colors. Most had equally beautiful settings.
Then it was off to see under the water on a glass bottom boat excursion. I loved seeing the island from the vantage point of the small boat. In the distance waves crashed against the barrier reef. Beyond that is the Pacific Ocean. We stayed within the barrier, in the calmer water. I keep referring to the many shades of blue. From the boat I almost didn’t want to look down to see what was beneath the water, the fifty shades of blue and views were mesmerizing.
But of course, the sea beckoned. In one area we saw sleek sharks and manta rays. In another area there was an aquarium beneath the boat. Loads of coral, more than a dozen varieties of small fish were visible. The larger fish, tuna, barracuda and such, remain outside the barrier reef.
Late afternoon I returned to the ship. The whirlpool was calling me. Iced tea, warm jets against my achy lower back, and then lounging in the shade with a soft breeze, I was a very happy camper.