Guam - Santiago Sep. 8 - Oct. 17. Missives from The Andesite Line on Pursuit

[SLSD]

34 minutes ago, Fletcher said:

It is very easy for us who live in the west, in big advanced and diverse societies, to impose our values on different parts of the world.  Yes, the Pitcairners - or Pitkerners as they say - speak English (or a hybrid, 18th century version of it), yes they are a British Overseas Territory, yes they are governed by New Zealand, but they are also a Polynesian society, living in virtual isolation,  a gene-depleted society, the descendants of a race war and of sexual violence that killed almost everyone on the island, then contaminated by Christian (that word!) religious dogma, and so on and so on.   For me, this is far from black-and-white, holier-than-thou.  

Fletcher, I continue to be appreciative of your analysis of both cruise itineraries and societal issues.  Thank you for this analysis.  Now, I'll have to go and do some research.  

[SLSD]

46 minutes ago, Fletcher said:

It is very easy for us who live in the west, in big advanced and diverse societies, to impose our values on different parts of the world.  Yes, the Pitcairners - or Pitkerners as they say - speak English (or a hybrid, 18th century version of it), yes they are a British Overseas Territory, yes they are governed by New Zealand, but they are also a Polynesian society, living in virtual isolation,  a gene-depleted society, the descendants of a race war and of sexual violence that killed almost everyone on the island, then contaminated by Christian (that word!) religious dogma, and so on and so on.   For me, this is far from black-and-white, holier-than-thou.  

I had to do some research to find out what the more recent scandal was about. Disturbing to say the least.  But, I would suggest that Shark8's comments are probably what anthropologists would say.  I want to know more.  

[Redking]

1 hour ago, Fletcher said:

It is very easy for us who live in the west, in big advanced and diverse societies, to impose our values on different parts of the world.  Yes, the Pitcairners - or Pitkerners as they say - speak English (or a hybrid, 18th century version of it), yes they are a British Overseas Territory, yes they are governed by New Zealand, but they are also a Polynesian society, living in virtual isolation,  a gene-depleted society, the descendants of a race war and of sexual violence that killed almost everyone on the island, then contaminated by Christian (that word!) religious dogma, and so on and so on.   For me, this is far from black-and-white, holier-than-thou.  

Couldn't agree more. As a social scientist it really broadened my mind.  A privilege to visit the island in so many ways.

[highplanesdrifters]

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

 

IMHO, sexual assault of children is wrong. Anytime, anyplace, anywhere. Some were as young as five. A powerful family rulled the island and perpetuated these evils into modern times.   I am pleased that outside forces have worked to stop this cycle of violence.  Currently there are no children living on the island. They are sent away to boarding school in New Zealand.

 

In this U.S. we continue to battle similar "cultural " issues with the FLDS.  Most of the leaders and perpetrators have been jailed. However it is a wack-a-mole problem.  

 

It was once culturally acceptable to own slaves. Would you feel that a grey area if it was currently happening on Pitcairn?

 

Challenging issues, thank you to everyone for civility and discourse.

 

 

[highplanesdrifters]

And now for some "Happy Talk".

 

 

Ducie Atoll, Pitcarin Island group

A breeding ground for Humpback Whales and an Important Bird Area.

 

 

Another remote Atoll, sign me up!

 Home to 90% of the world  Murphys petrel and also the rare Pheonix petrel.   Also in attendance the usual suspects of Great Frigates, Fairy terns, Red tail tropical birds.  We were treated with constant bird acrobatics.  

 

Humpacks were spotted all day from the ship with simple blows to all the acrobatics.  Cheers would erupt for a big breach, tail slaps, and fin swirls.

 

Giant Frigate Bird

 

 

 

For the birders out there, I snarfed a few shots from Joe. We are so lucky to have him on board.  I wish I could plug a USB into him and transfer it to my brain.

 

 

🤣

 

No surprise, weather conditions did not allow submarine, kayak, or snorkeling.  The "A Team" of Juan and Claudio pull another rabbit out of their hat and offer Zodiac tours. They did not disappoint.

 

Pretty far from home in choppy seas.

 

We pulled the lucky straw and got Juan as our driver. His day job at home is a whale watching guide. He quickly found us a mother and calf.  We tracked them for the rest of our time. A male approached mom and she was having none of it.  

 

 

We returned to the ship around five.  Cocktail hour in the jacuzzi,  yes please.

 

 

Followed by outside dinner at Collinade.  Tropical cocktails, breezes and mouth watering Osso Bucco.  Another great day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[SLSD]

2 hours ago, highplanesdrifters said:

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

 

IMHO, sexual assault of children is wrong. Anytime, anyplace, anywhere. Some were as young as five. A powerful family rulled the island and perpetuated these evils into modern times.   I am pleased that outside forces have worked to stop this cycle of violence.  Currently there are no children living on the island. They are sent away to boarding school in New Zealand.

 

In this U.S. we continue to battle similar "cultural " issues with the FLDS.  Most of the leaders and perpetrators have been jailed. However it is a wack-a-mole problem.  

 

It was once culturally acceptable to own slaves. Would you feel that a grey area if it was currently happening on Pitcairn?

 

Challenging issues, thank you to everyone for civility and discourse.

 

 

No gray areas, that is for sure.  But the study by anthropologists would explain how it happened.  No room for excuses of any kind. 

 

[Rancher Dave]

On 10/5/2024 at 12:29 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

 

Best get those chores done lickity split.  Pretty soon you'll be wrangling penguins!

 

Yell if you need any Antarctica packing advice.  

Think we are awaiting one item to arrive to the house and we will double check sizing and pack most of what we are taking.  Have a 94th birthday party for MIL next weekend and I get to bring home my big smoker trailer to smoke the brisket and sausage.   Other ranch chores close to where I want them, and all due before we leave should be done. I plan three more trips out there in the next 8 days. 

 

Who is head waiter now?

[Fletcher]

My best snorkel ever was at Ducie, chilly but so incredibly clear, stepping over birds on the island, inner lagoon was positively teeming with baby sharks.  

[highplanesdrifters]

Just now, Rancher Dave said:

Think we are awaiting one item to arrive to the house and we will double check sizing and pack most of what we are taking.  Have a 94th birthday party for MIL next weekend and I get to bring home my big smoker trailer to smoke the brisket and sausage.   Other ranch chores close to where I want them, and all due before we leave should be done. I plan three more trips out there in the next 8 days. 

 

Who is head waiter now?

 

You had me at big smoker.

 

We rarely go to the restaurant,  forget his name.  Will check. 

[highplanesdrifters]

Just now, Fletcher said:

My best snorkel ever was at Ducie, chilly but so incredibly clear, stepping over birds on the island, inner lagoon was positively teeming with baby sharks.  

 

Crazy jealous. I had read about how cool the lagoon was.   Fish get trapped in there = shark party buffet.

I knew it was a longshot for us. I'll take the Humpback consolation prize. 

Glad you got the experience!

[highplanesdrifters]

Pitcarin Island

Pawala Valley Ridge Hike

Report from Lovie. 

 A surprising 50 people went on the second hike. It was a strenuous steep climb on stable roads and paths. Round trip  distance  of about 7 miles including the Hill of Difficulty, to an elevation of 1,115 feet. The crowd thinned out quickly. Some turned back.  Very scenic and enjoyable. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bonus on the way back.

 

 

Mrs. T.  The last remaining of the five Tortise ftom the Galapagos. Brought here between 1937 and 1951. It was Mr. T until a biologist showed up.

 

Rewarding sweeping views.  The Norfolk pines were brought back from Norfolk Island. Home to many Pitcarin residents for many years until they decided to return.  Worth a Google. 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited October 6 by highplanesdrifters

[kej1]

Wow, what an incredible journey.  Love the photos and commentary and so happy to hear you’ve got the Expedition team.  We also really enjoyed the Osso Bucco on the patio.  One of our favorite meals.😎

[kej1]

Just now, kej1 said:

Wow, what an incredible journey.  Love the photos and commentary and so happy to hear you’ve got the Expedition team.  We also really enjoyed the Osso Bucco on the patio.  One of our favorite meals.😎

I meant the A expedition team!

[highplanesdrifters]

First of two sea days.

 

We have been spoiled with near perfect weather so....

What the heck Is this?  Bring back that steamy giant thunderhead  southwest pacific weather. We don't want the 'Uh Oh' Humboldt Current weather.

 

 

Food Porn Extrodinaire 

Special Indian Meal

Yep, as good as it looks.

 

Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close up.

 

 

I would have been happy with the condiments, Naan, and papadams.

 

 

 

[lincslady]

Looks wonderful; glad I have just had dinner, otherwise I would be so hungry and jealous!

[highplanesdrifters]

Ommmmm......

Weather Gods....

Pretty Please....

 

Thank you!

 

Needed this.  Ship lag has set in with the 97 time changes we are going through. Another tonight.  Oh the humanity! How will we suffer through.😅

[BioInfoLib]

5 hours ago, highplanesdrifters said:

First of two sea days.

 

We have been spoiled with near perfect weather so....

What the heck Is this?  Bring back that steamy giant thunderhead  southwest pacific weather. We don't want the 'Uh Oh' Humboldt Current weather.

 

 

Food Porn Extrodinaire 

Special Indian Meal

Yep, as good as it looks.

 

Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close up.

 

 

I would have been happy with the condiments, Naan, and papadams.

 

 

 

the Indian food looks fantastic! Is that in Collonade? And you requested in advance? We loved the Indian Buffet when we were on in August but didn’t realize you could do this.

On 10/6/2024 at 1:14 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

And now for some "Happy Talk".

 

 

Ducie Atoll, Pitcarin Island group

A breeding ground for Humpback Whales and an Important Bird Area.

 

 

Another remote Atoll, sign me up!

 Home to 90% of the world  Murphys petrel and also the rare Pheonix petrel.   Also in attendance the usual suspects of Great Frigates, Fairy terns, Red tail tropical birds.  We were treated with constant bird acrobatics.  

 

Humpacks were spotted all day from the ship with simple blows to all the acrobatics.  Cheers would erupt for a big breach, tail slaps, and fin swirls.

 

Giant Frigate Bird

 

 

 

For the birders out there, I snarfed a few shots from Joe. We are so lucky to have him on board.  I wish I could plug a USB into him and transfer it to my brain.

 

 

🤣

 

No surprise, weather conditions did not allow submarine, kayak, or snorkeling.  The "A Team" of Juan and Claudio pull another rabbit out of their hat and offer Zodiac tours. They did not disappoint.

 

Pretty far from home in choppy seas.

 

We pulled the lucky straw and got Juan as our driver. His day job at home is a whale watching guide. He quickly found us a mother and calf.  We tracked them for the rest of our time. A male approached mom and she was having none of it.  

 

 

We returned to the ship around five.  Cocktail hour in the jacuzzi,  yes please.

 

 

Followed by outside dinner at Collinade.  Tropical cocktails, breezes and mouth watering Osso Bucco.  Another great day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[highplanesdrifters]

On 10/7/2024 at 5:31 PM, BioInfoLib said:

the Indian food looks fantastic! Is that in Collonade? And you requested in advance? We loved the Indian Buffet when we were on in August but didn’t realize you could do this.

 

Something wonky going on.  Thought I had replied and havent been able to access CC for awhile. 

 

The Indian meal was a special request in the restaurant.  They ask for 48 hours notice and are very familiar with this request. You can request anything.  If they have the ingredients,  they are happy to make it. 

Our friend had asked for a very, very, very spicy lamb vindaloo.  He got a spicy lamb vindaloo.   The rest of us wanted to keep our taste buds intact. 😃

 

Fyi, the Collonade had Indian Market on both legs which we also enjoyed.

[BioInfoLib]

20 minutes ago, highplanesdrifters said:

 

Something wonky going on.  Thought I had replied and havent been able to access CC for awhile. 

 

The Indian meal was a special request in the restaurant.  They ask for 48 hours notice and are very familiar with this request. You can request anything.  If they have the ingredients,  they are happy to make it. 

Our friend had asked for a very, very, very spicy lamb vindaloo.  He got a spicy lamb vindaloo.   The rest of us wanted to keep our taste buds intact. 😃

 

Fyi, the Collonade had Indian Market on both legs which we also enjoyed.

Thanks! Now I know what we’ll be ordering in the restaurant on Pursuit next year!

[highplanesdrifters]

Rapa  Nui, aka Easter Island

 

Landing Options

The A Team is committed to getting us on shore!

 

A. Hanga Roa, the only town. Tender or zodiac to pier.

B. Ana Kana, zodiac to beach.

C. Hutuiti, zodiac to ?

 

Not looking good for Hanga Roa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[lincslady]

Fingers crossed you make it ashore.  CC went off completely I think for the whole world for about 7 hours.  No problems so far since, and no explanation.

[whogo]

14 minutes ago, lincslady said:

Fingers crossed you make it ashore.  CC went off completely I think for the whole world for about 7 hours.  No problems so far since, and no explanation.

This was posted y harters on the Tripadvisor cruise forum:

"A reply to my email from CC:

 

"'Our boards have been experiencing intermittent outages this morning and it is being worked on. We hope it will be resolved soon, and we thank you for your patience.'"

 

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g1-i10703-k14900801-Cruise_Critic_forum_down-Cruises.html#121873851

[SLSD]

On 10/7/2024 at 2:58 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

Ommmmm......

Weather Gods....

Pretty Please....

 

Thank you!

 

Needed this.  Ship lag has set in with the 97 time changes we are going through. Another tonight.  Oh the humanity! How will we suffer through.😅

Ship lag can really affect you! 

[highplanesdrifters]

Made it! AND we didn't get hurt.

MTC

 

[Rancher Dave]

4 hours ago, highplanesdrifters said:

Made it! AND we didn't get hurt.

MTC

 

Wish we'd been able to pull off being aboard for the current leg, just to see Easter Island. Oh well, in a week (from tomorrow) we will be aboard. 

 

Special note, smoker hooked to truck waiting for me to bring it back on Friday...3 briskets and a dozen sausages thawing to be smoked and eaten in a few days!    

 

Saw the note on requesting special meals...may see about a nice seafood platter one evening.