Pitcairn Island  Thurs Jan 24, 2013

We were scheduled to stop at this remote island to allow the locals to come aboard and visit as well as share their handiwork.  They also would pick up supplies via their longboat.  Unfortunately,  2 weeks prior to our arrival, another cruise ship passed by and infected the island with the flu that is ravaging the US.  Thus our visit had to be adjusted to just providing them with supplies via a one way transfer onto their longboat.  Subsequently we circumnavigated the island.  It is quite beautiful and truly amazing for its remoteness.  It is hard to believe the Christian Fletcher and his fellow mutineers made it here so long ago.

Pitcairn Longboat arriving shipside for supplies



view of pitcairn as we approach

Today the population is about 50 people, almost all descendants from those original infamous mutineers.  They depend upon cruise ships and freighters to bring them supplies.  They do have telephone and internet but the only vehicle I know of is a tractor to pull the carts up the mountainside.  A little too remote for my taste, but truly a beautiful island.

The evening’s dinner was a formal pirate theme.  The crews’ costumes were spectacular during the day as well as during dinner service.  “C” and I took some fun photos in front of the green screen. 

 

Next we sail for French Polynesia.  Returning there after a dozen year; I am very excited and hope it hasn’t changed too much