02 Nov 2023

Sacred Dancing with Malaita’s Kwaio Tribe

Today was another very special day with Discover the Secrets of Melanesia living up to its name as Heritage Adventurer arrived at Malaita Island this morning.

This morning the roles were reversed as Chief Esau and his people of the Kwaio tribe paid a visit the ship from the remote highlands of Malaita. They had travelled two days by foot, laden with customary costume and crafts, to generously share their culture with us. Initially we were to meet them on a remote coral atoll, where they could perform their very sacred dances away from other tribes.

But this wasn't to be, so Plan B was implemented, and Chief Esau's community were invited on board our trusty expedition ship. We welcomed around 60 very special guests on board in traditional attire. After an introduction, learning about their dedication to retaining traditional living, while accepting contact from westerners, we watched them perform.

What a privilege to be invited next, to adorn traditional dress, (being not very much), and share their culture, dancing and performing music with them. This was a new and exhilarating experience for many of us. Our purchases of intricate, hand-crafted items followed with some more in-formal conversation and getting-to-know each other.

In the evening we visited a small outer lying island where the children performed for us and we
were invited to witness a traditional bridal ceremony where the family on the groom's side
presented the bride's family with traditional shell money. Many smiling faces waved us goodbye as we pulled away in the Zodiacs, returning to the ship at dusk.

Images © S. Bradley, Heritage Expeditions