Day 35 – Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Kia orana! Welcome to Rarotonga, the capital of the Cook Islands! Rarotonga is another volcanic island in Polynesia, but not French Polynesia. Fifteen islands comprise the Cook Islands, which was once a New Zealand colony. Today, it is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand.

For the first time since our excursion in Kauai, Hawaii, I stepped foot on land today. Getting there was interesting, since the sea swells made tendering a bit of a challenge.

Beautiful Rarotonga

Tim and I embarked on the included excursion, “Muri Beach Village,” described as follows:

Experience the welcoming culture of the Māori and the fascinating history of the Cook Islands. Travel to Muri Beach Village, where you will experience the local market stalls selling handicrafts, food vendors, and musicians and performers. Interact with the residents, who are always willing to have a friendly chat, share a story or answer your questions. Then, walk to the heart of the village to the striking Te Ara Museum—its white exterior is covered in colorful frangipanis. Inside, the museum features the story of the Cook Islands from pre-colonial times through to the present day, including exhibits on the Vaka Moana migrations and the islands’ ariki (chiefs). It also houses aquariums that highlight the need to protect the islands’ lagoons. Leave the museum and head to Muri Lagoon for an optional swim or snorkel in its clear, blue waters. Or, stroll along the beach and stop for a drink before returning to your ship.

I’m not sure anyone realized that this excursion was not a guided tour, but simply a transfer to the village with time on our own. We boarded our colorful bus and were dropped off at the Te Ara Museum.

The Buses Are a Little Different in Rarotonga

Sights Along the Way

The exhibits at the museum were nicely done, and the hanging panels recounted the history of the Cook Islands. The vaka, or double-hulled canoe, with its intricate carvings, was beautiful.

Early History

Historic Photographs Tell the Story

The Vaka and Hanging Panels

Although Tim and I are not beach people, we walked down to the beach to check out the view and the renown white sand. By this time, I was so hot and sweaty that I was more than ready to head back to the ship. The dozens of other passengers waiting for their bus to arrive were of a similar mind. 

Unfortunately, not one person we spoke with liked the excursion. Tim and I both enjoyed the museum, despite how hot it was inside, but I could have skipped everything else. Oh well, they all can’t be great.

Muri Beach

Tim and Sarah at Muri Beach

On the drive back to the dock, I was intrigued by the number of memorials and headstones in the yards of the houses we passed. I learned that many islanders follow the traditions of their ancestors and choose to bury their family members close to their dwellings.

Memorials and Monuments Close to Home

As soon as I stepped back on the ship, I said a blessing to the god of air conditioning. Stepping into a cool shower was divine. Although I understand that we are visiting tropical islands, the reality of the heat and humidity is still a shock. If one wants to visit these amazing places, finding a way to cope with the weather is essential.