NUKU'ALOFA, TONGA

As we journey west across Tongatapu, we’ll see charming little villages where lifestyles have remained untouched by time. A stop will be made to view the dramatic blowholes, where mighty pacific rollers force through natural fissures to spout nearly 27 metres (90 feet) skywards!

Proceeding along Nuku’alofa’s waterfront, we pass the Royal Palace – a wooden building dating back to 1867, home of His Majesty King Taufa’ahua Tupou IV, before continuing onto the Royal Tombs, where King George Tupou I – the founder of modern Tonga – and his descendants are at rest; we shall pause for a photo opportunity. As we journey west across Tongatapu, we’ll see charming little villages where lifestyles have remained untouched by time. A stop will be made to view the dramatic blowholes, where mighty pacific rollers force through natural fissures to spout nearly 27 metres (90 feet) skywards!A little further on lies Kolovai, famed for its flying fox colony. There are literally thousands of these big bats – with wings spanning nearly 1 metre (3 feet) – snoozing upside-down in the trees. Back onboard our coach, we proceed to the Good Samaritan Beach, where a Tongan buffet-style lunch awaits. We may choose from a variety of traditional island foods, including roast suckling pig, marinated fish, taro and seasonal tropical fruits. Colourfully dressed islanders will exuberantly serenade us with Tongan songs and dances. Later there will be time to swim or amble along the white sand beach.Refreshed, invigorated and entertained, we return to our awaiting ship.

There is a small amount of walking involved in this tour. If you intend to swim, please come already wearing your costume, and do not forget a towel. Because of the sharp coral underfoot, it is imperative to wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet; it is also highly recommended that you bring insect repellent and sun protection. When viewing the blowholes, great care should be, as it is considered to be a very stony area. Lunch will consist of Local Island food, which may appear basic; the content is subject to change. 1 drink per person is included. The activity of the blowholes cannot be guaranteed.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 WORLD CRUISE