Fatu Hiva: Omoa and Hanavave
The first European contact with the Marquesan people occurred here in 1595 when the Spanish, thinking they had reached the Solomon Islands, arrived at Fatu Hiva. It is the most lush and remote island of the Marquesas and also a centre of Marquesan crafts. Iin the village of Omoa we see women making tapa cloth in the traditional way by beating mulberry banyan or breadfruit tree bark. We are also shown how the women make the wonderfully fragrant umu hei bouquets that they wear in their hair. Ink drawings on tapa, hand-dyed pareos and monoi coconut oil are among the most highly prized souvenirs at Omoa’s arts and crafts centre. While the Aranui 5 sails up the west coast to one of the most beautiful bays in the world, the Bay of Virgins at Hanavave, those who are feeling energetic can make the 16-kilometre trip on foot. It is a moderately challenging but hugely rewarding mountain walk with a picnic stop at the top. The descent into Hanavave offers spectacular views of soaring volcanic peaks and the Aranui 5 at anchor in the bay below. Meanwhile those who have travelled to Hanavave on the ship have time to explore the village and enjoy a performance by local dancers.