A change of plans

Europa stayed alongside the pier throughout the day with some of us continuing exploring the town of Neiafu, enjoying coffee and Wi-Fi in the small coffee places along the seaside. Others were sending post cards and buying souvenirs. Dylan brought a group down below on a dungeon tour exploring the hidden machineries essential for our ship to function and for us to thrive onboard. 

The zodiacs were lowered and a group joined for snorkelling the reefs outside some smaller islands. We dove down under the surface enjoying reef fish in all kinds of colours, sea stars in blue and pink and corals in various shapes and forms.

In the afternoon some of us went out for dinner in town while most of us got ready for Betty’s feast. Vai had invited us for an eventful evening with her family and grandmother, Betty. We were welcomed with brass band, a demonstration of weaving coconut leaves, and stands with all kinds of handicrafts made by family members. Then food was served, a whole roasted pig and a variety of dishes all prepared for us. Some of the bravest of us joined one of the traditional dance performances, trying our best to follow the dance steps. And in the end, the impressive fire dance was performed. The night went on with music and games. Many of us joined in on the dance floor showing our best dance moves. It was a special evening experiencing the Tongan culture, and especially emotional for Vai, who has worked onboard Europa for many years. Tonight her Europa family and her own Tongan family were joined together, and we could learn about her culture and where she comes from.