The Blue Planet Odyssey fleet of yachts, having spread out to cruise at their own pace through the islands of the South Pacific, finally came together again in a small bay on the island of Malekula in the Vanuatu archipelago on 15th August.
The islanders of Malekula are renowned for having preserved the traditions of their Melanesian ancestors, and the sailors were able to attend the Nalawan festival for a feast of dancing and demonstration of ancient customs.
The islanders have taken on modern life as well – you can see solar panels fitted to thatched huts, charging mobile phones – and in all places visited during the two week cruise through Vanuatu, the Blue Planet Odyssey sailors received a warm Melanesian welcome.
- Find out about Vanuatu
- Impressions from Vanuatu, by Jimmy Cornell