A little while ago I received a note from some family of friends who were out sailing around the South Pacific Ocean in their cruising yacht. They had asked me for, received and followed some advice about where to go and what to look for in the Tuamotu group northeast of Tahiti and the Society Islands. Unlike the high lush mountainous islands of and around Tahiti, the Tuamotus are low coral ring atolls. On a few meters above sea level in most cases. Yet they are also the islands of legend and lore. Narrow passes ripping with current to get into lagoons, palm-fringed brilliant coral sand beaches, deep turquoise waters with coral heads and sharks all around. Shipwrecks of big iron windjammers high up on the beaches to explore, and welcoming island villages. We are bound for Takaroa.
“ I’ve been meaning to write for some time to relay my gratitude for your tip last June, steering us off to Takaroa. It was without doubt the highlight of our season in French Polynesia. I had previously visited the Marquesas, Societies, and Australs, and was really looking forward to my first visit to the Tuamotus. They did not disappoint. In fact, I greatly prefer them to all other groups I’ve seen. Takaroa was the shining star among the islands we visited in the group. The wreck was astounding, but, (hard to believe), was soon eclipsed by our immediate and heartwarming absorption into the Takaroa community, and the ensuing celebrations, explorations and general good fellowship that we experienced. Things happened very quickly after our arrival when through sheer luck, the first person we met on the island after swimming ashore was a fellow named Aruma. He turned out to be the Mayor’s husband, and after making her acquaintance, and touring the wreck with them, a chain of events began which none of us could have foreseen. Our time on Takaroa exceeded anything I could have imagined before the fact. The people were lovely, gracious, generous and sincere. It was truly a heartwarming experience. My daughter, Cabry, turned 18 while we were there. She will never forget celebrating that day with a family she didn’t know she had!
I’m positive that you’ve had countless similar experiences during your lifetime of voyaging. It must be very satisfying to look back and marvel at the countless wonders you’ve placed in the path of your shipmates and guests.
For the wonders you put in mine……I thank you.”
The PICTON CASTLE is bound for Takaroa.
