World ARC Rally - Exploring Tonga

by World Cruising Club on 3 Jul 2015 Vava’u has proved to be another popular stopover on the World ARC route, with participants falling for the warmth of the Tongans and the simple way of life in this remote Pacific archipelago. As well as exploring anchorages, snorkelling and dive sites, the World ARC programme of activities has provided some fun.

On Tuesday evening, the official welcome and prizegiving turned into quite a party when after dinner the restaurant kitchen and waiting staff joined participants on the dance floor! Cava was served on arrival, with each skipper being presented with a flower lay by staff from the Tonga Visitors Bureau whose manager, Bruno Toke, then officially welcomed the World ARC participants to Vava’u. Andrew Bishop thanked the TVB, Moorings, Beluga Diving, the Aquarium, Mango Café, and all the authorities for their welcome, and presented prizes for the leg from Raiatea to Vava’u, with stops in Suwarrow and Niue. Local dancers performed a selection of traditional dances, much enjoyed by all for their insight into the local way of life, with the vibrant colours of the dancers costumes, and selection of simple instruments providing the energetic music. A traditional Tongan buffet was then served, with delicacies including clams in coconut milk, beef in local leaves, and octopus salad.

The following day participants took a rickety community bus, driven by a high ranking island policeman, across the island to Eneio Botanical Garden and Beach. The founder of the tropical garden explained it’s history, started by him when gifted the land as an 8 year old, through the collection of species, many during his time as a minister in the Tongan government, through to the opening of the garden eight years ago. A selection of demonstrations were arranged to explain local crafts, including making of vanilla essence, before taking a final stroll along the sponsored “World ARC Way” to the beautiful beach restaurant for cultural dancing by local school children, and a Tongan Feast.

Preparations are now being made to clear out from Vava’u for clearance into the northern Lau Group in Fiji at the start of a four week independent cruising period. Many will be sad to leave the friendliness of Vava’u behind them, after what has been another great visit on the World ARC circumnavigation.