The sky was overcast and grey as we approached Rarotonga, we had been prepared by the weather forecast for a rainy day. As we went up to the top deck, we passed all the excited participants in the Princess organised shore excursions, waiting in line for the first tender ashore. Our plan was to relax with a coffee until the early morning rush had diminished, then head ashore for a wander around and maybe rent a car. Before renting you must first a visit the local police station to be photographed and apply for a Cook Islands driving licence, approximately $10, I was looking forward to the unique souvenir and process. As we enjoyed our coffee, I could see the rain approaching from off shore and shortly it was pouring down and the sea got very choppy. There were already two tenders in the water and they were bouncing about like corks when the announcement from the captain started. “Due to rough seas and expected increased wind and rain, all shore visits have been cancelled and we will be raising the anchor for an early departure to New Zealand” The next half hour was spent watching the lifeboat crews hook up and raise the tenders back on board, a perilous process as the seas heaved the smaller vessels around.
Fortunately I had taken some pictures of the island before the worst of the weather moved in so at least we got to see Rarotonga, if not set foot on it. It was a bit disappointing but as the captain said, safety is first priority, apparently it‘s not unusual for weather to prevent tenders going ashore. We were soon on our way with 5 days at sea ahead before we reach New Zealand as the entertainment staff made hurried announcements scheduling new events on board. The evening show featured the multi talented instrumentalists Duo Yalba, they were very entertaining, that’s 7 shows we’ve seen, a record for us.
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