Cook Islands: Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise - take in the sun with lots of fun...

The Lagoon Lova

One of the highlights of our Cook Islands FAM trip in November 2010 was the Aitutaki Lagoon cruise. That day started perfectly...no hitting the snooze button...in fact, I beat my alarm clock! I must have been excited. After a breakfast of pan fried New Zealand corned beef and coconut banana pancakes (yumm!), we were shuttled to the Lagoon Lova - the 45-foot catamaran that will take us around the Aitutaki Lagoon. The boat was laden with a group from New Zealand who were there to celebrate their friend's birthday. Some of them have lived in the island before and there were a few who have done the cruise several times and just couldn't get enough.

Onboard, you can bask in the sun at the top deck or listen to the captain's tales and participate in activities like coconut husking.

Our first stop was a swimming opportunity in the island of trees. To swim in crystal clear waters is just exhilarating. I didn't have to worry about what could be underneath me.

When the horn sounds, it was time to go back on board and on to our next stop: snorkeling!

Bishops Cruises provided the snorkeling gear, including leaves to clean the glass and prevent fogging. I have attempted snorkeling before and didnt quite enjoy it. I was surprised at how comfortable I was this time and had a great time exploring the coral reefs swimming with colorful fishes. There was a giant clam and it would have been great to be able to take underwater photos.

By the time we heard the horns again, we were starving. Lunch was at the One Foot Island. Grilled fresh ocean fish, salads and fruits were served. The grilled fish was so fresh we had to have more than a few helpings.

After lunch, we explored One Foot Island, walking through the sandbars, basking in the sun and the beauty of nature. I consider this island as the best that I have been to. It is so pure and unspoilt. Definitely no peddlers swarming around you.

Before we left, I made sure I had my passport stamped at the island's post office - the smallest and most beatifully situated in the world. I also bought postcards which I sent to my family and to myself to remind me of the beautiful experience when I go back home.

It was a great day trip and a must do when in Aitutaki. A few people have said that taking the smaller boats for the lagoon cruise was better because it can take you to more and smaller islands. However, I am glad we took the lagoon lova because it has washrooms onboard. It was a full day trip and it was good to know washrooms are onboard just in case.



One Foot Island - a view from the sandbar


Operators in the island also offer customized cruises. If I ever get the opportunity of going back to Aitutaki with my other half, I will definitely try the Honeymoon Cruise where they drop you off on a motu (island) with a picnic hamper. I bet it will be a wonderful experience.