Had a bit of a rocky night. There was a cupboard door banging occasionally out in the corridor, testifying to it being rocky!

Location map for 5.30 (Mystery Island is too small to see!)

Arrived at Mystery Island in time to get the sunrise behind the main island Aneityum.

The tenders started running at 7.15 as there are no port facilities for docking at. My tender had quite a few issues trying to dock at the pier as the swell was rather strong, we kept hitting it quite hard. Eventually he swung around to the other side and and docked more easily.

I don’t remember what year it was when I was last here, maybe 2013, and it sure has changed. It is now all touristy with buildings, toilets, sand packed footpaths, garden beds. I wandered away from the crowds and found a nice quiet pathway and enjoyed the peace. I only saw/heard one bird (it had a bright red throat) and apart from ants, no bugs or spiders!

I did try to get a photo of all the little fish near the pier but the waves kept washing them away, lol. I didn’t stay long and was probably the first person back on board, had the tender all to myself!

Had smoked salmon at the Crown Lounge again, had a chat and then changed into my bathers. However, the pool was once again closed. Not impressed, so much for the 8 am opening! So back to my room, for my usual occupations, lol. There was a bear awaiting me when I got back.

Tomorrow is Noumea and I have a city tour and the aquarium. Happy Birthday Mum!