FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX: Pago Pago

First sight of land for a long time

After five days at sea, we finally hit land. The honours went to Pago Pago, American Samoa, a US territory just southeast of the island country of Samoa. The beaches, harbour, and lush volcanic peaks would have looked infinitely better if the weather cooperated. Unfortunately, the clouds, wind and rain tinged everything as just grey. The locals greeted us with songs and dances performed with joy in the rain nonetheless.

We set out with intentions to hike in the National Park of American Samoa. At the visitor centre we were informed that due to the heavy rains, that hikes are not recommended. Next attempt was a brief sightseeing venture to a scenic point within the National Park recommended by the same helpful lady at the visitor centre. This saw us jumping into a cab with a driver who knew minimal English at a set price for the return trip. The negotiations were made via the attendant at a petrol station where we spotted the cab. We had to traverse the incredibly steep volcanic peak to get to the south side of the island. We did manage to get some photos but the weather had damaged the roads and the conditions made proceeding unwise. The park ranger ahead of us doing a u-turn was probably a good clue!

Pago Pago was otherwise a small island town. There was a post office and a local market within easy walking distance of the port, however, we bypassed them as most products would create hassles (biosecurity-wise) upon reentering Australia. This saw us back onboard by 1030 am...

Ironically a port day was when I finally got to have an afternoon nap! The ship managed to snag 2 steel wires in its anchor and it took 40 minutes to unhook...we had never seen that happen before on any cruise! It was pirate night and the day finished off with fireworks at sea which was always nice. Who knew Goofy had such funky dance moves.