An Atoll & a Superbowl!

Early this morning we arrived at Fakarava. But first another ship picture.


The pool at 7 am.

Fakarava is an atoll in French Polynesia. It is roughly rectangular and its length is 37 miles and width 13 miles. Fakarava has a wide and deep lagoon and in most places, the land itself is only 300 yards wide with one main small village and 855 residents. This remote atoll, sometimes called "Island of Dreams" boasts an ecosystem that is so unspoiled the entire island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to preserve rare species. 


Our personal tour started this morning as we joined our tour guide for an 1 1/2 hour ATV adventure.


Karen is ready to go!
 

Coconuts stacked and drying in the sun so the coconut oil can be harvested.


Beach stop.

We stopped to look at the 45-ft high square stone Topaka Lighthouse built in 1957 and operated only 30 years.


Our guide Heiarii (sounds a little like Harry) at the old lighthouse.


Enjoying our adventure.


Our ship in the distance from my ATV.

We had a great/fun ride with our tour guide Harry. Following the ride, we walked around the small village.


Topaka, Fakarava Protestant Church in the village Rotoava.

Back onboard it was time for a dip in the pool followed by lunch. Because this was Superbowl Sunday, we attended a Superbowl party in the large lounge. Rams fans on the right and Patriots fans on the left. Lots of eats, beer, popcorn, etc.


Cake to celebrate (sorry Rams lost).


After the game, time for shuffleboard before getting ready for dinner.
 
 
Little windy on the upper deck, but the breeze is nice.
 

Dinner tonight was in the Red Ginger, another specialty restaurant - and it was great!
 
Stayed tuned for more adventures from French Polynesia.


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