Papeete 2 of 4

The port was a hive of activity with passengers being picked up by various tour operators in a string of mini buses, taxis, jeeps, and le trucks which the locals use as transport around the island. These open-air vehicles with bench-type seating are not particularly comfortable for "older westernised folks" but they had been commandeered to meet the high tourist demand that occurs whenever cruise ships arrive. Our sea transport had not arrived so we amused ourselves by watching the entourage of tourists departing. Eventually we learnt that our yacht had also been booked by Princess and that we were to be accommodated by a smaller yacht as the ship had a much large group than ours. When it arrived the yacht was indeed adequate for 10 people and though not as luxurious as we'd expected we were given a discount refund as recompense.

We set sail and spread out around the hull and trampoline deck at the front of the catamaran. Our hostess Telopia and the young captain were very friendly and accommodating. They plied us with refreshments of fresh fruit juices, fruit, coconut and all kinds of snack treats like chips, nuts and cheeses. They shared facts about Tahiti as we sailed past the island. We learnt that there are over 55 species of fish in the pristine waters and that sea turtles, sharks, porpoises and dolphins and humpbacks abound. Porpoises are only found in Asian Pacific waters whereas dolphins are found all over the world. Tahiti also has a thriving black pearl industry and numerous stores sell them all over the island.