03 Nov 2022

Mingling with the Malaita Island Locals

We made our way to Malaita Island to see the locals, who knew we had arrived, with many dugout canoes venturing out to check out Heritage Adventurer. Early morning the birders headed off while some of us enjoyed the deeper cooler waters snorkelling. Others spent time at the local village Gwauna'ru where they were shown the beautifully manicured gardens and enjoyed the wooden car races that the local boys were proudly showing the passengers.

Back on board we had the privilege of meeting Chief Esau of the Kwaoi people who live in the Highlands. His wife and daughter came in their traditional attire to fill us in on their unique culture having travelled far to come and share their way of life on foot, by boat and on bus. Ashore they shared their way of cooking with bamboo and banana leaves then joined us back on board to share their traditional dances without the local village looking on. Their sacred dances were shared only by a few who were willing to dress in traditional attire and discard their inhibitions. A special day with a glimpse into life in the highlands.