I was up just before sunrise and the island was visible off our port side. I could see the lights of another ship already anchored in the bay at Hanga roa, the largest town. Easter Island gets about 15 ships per year and as luck would have it, we happened to be there at the same time as the Saga Rose, the ship that passed through the Panama canal with us. Because the other ship had acted first, all the islands tour buses were fully booked for the morning and Princess passengers had all their tours in the afternoon, the hottest time of day, fortunately we had booked a private excursion. We caught the first tender over to the dock and Josephina of Haumaka Tours was waiting, as arranged, holding a sign with our name on it.
After introductions, we were quickly on our way in a comfortable 4x4 Suzuki to our first stop the volcano of Rano Raraku. The drive across the island reminded us of Scotland, narrow roads surrounded by mostly rough grass terrain, rocks and occasional trees. One difference from Scotland was the number of wild horses who seemed to prefer the roadway to the grass, they frequently looked underfed, many with ribs clearly visible and later we did see the bones of one of the poor creatures close to the roadway.
From the volcanic rock of Rano Raraku 95 percent of all the statues on the island were carved and it must have been quite an undertaking, many times they were removed from the sheer face of the mountain, requiring a long descent down the slope of a stone weighing several tons. The area is beautifully maintained and we were fortunate to have near perfect weather, clear blue skies and a warm breeze. I could have stayed for a while just enjoying the view out over the ocean, contemplating the many giant heads staring out to sea along side me, but we had limited time and a lot to see. Next stop was Ahu Tongariki, a platform holding 15 of the largest statues on the island then on to Anakena beach and Ahu Nau Nau, another 7 statues. The white sand beach was beautiful, but we were soon on our way to visit the Ahu Tahai complex, ceremonial site with village, canoe ramp and cave dwellings and all too soon we were back at the boat dock and our visit was over. Our time with Josephina was most enjoyable, she has an easy going personality and was very knowledgeable of the history and culture of the island.
We arrived back on board the ship just in time for a late lunch and an afternoon crash before the rigours of the evening ahead.
1 comment:
Hello - Yes it is the one near Brett's Wharf - driving you would be coming along Kingsford Smith Road, then turning into Remora Rd which then leads into McArthur Avenue etc. There is car parking at Hamilton Wharf (locally known as Brett's wharf), but its likely to be difficult and busy. I think you'll be bunked 2-300 metres further down the wharf towards the commercial area, as I can't see your ship listed on the Brett's Wharf listing, however if your sister goes past the Remora Road turn off (coming from the airport side not city) there is a sizable free carpark tucked away only locals know about for Bretts Wharf restaurant (its okay to use during the day) it right opposite Racecouse Road - get her to google Brett's Wharf on Google Earth if she has it and you'll be able to see the carpark I'm suggesting. Then its just a 10 15 minute walk along the front of the pier. I'd reccomend however that you arrange a meeting spot away from the pier closer to the car parks due to volume of people on wharf etc. The 24 hour port number is Brisbane 0412 876 737, business hours 3895 9218 or perhaps your sister might like to email the port personnel with queries greg.nugent@poports.com.au
Having a car to drive around Brisbane for the day is probably going to be the best option for you all. If you don't have an itinerary yet, I'd recommend you take a drive up to Mt Cootha - scenic lookout overview of Brisbane, the cities parklands (called South Bank) are also excellent. (These days for a few $ extra a sat nav system in the hire car is excellent value as you have limited time in port). At the port where you pull up there is a very good wine shop with quality wine at decent prices - so be sure to stock up your cabin if you enjoy wine. There is no supermarket at the Wharf but there are some around Brisbane for stocking up on cabin necessities. There's not much else @ Brett's Wharf other than good restaurants, but that's the last thing you need when coming off a Princess Ship! Happy travels.
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