The volcanic islands of Banda Neira make up a spectacular location. The local Banda people gave us a warm welcome as we sailed into the harbour escorted by an extremely large canoe. The large party of paddlers sang and coordinated their paddle strokes.
Throughout the morning, we explored the township and its narrow streets. The history of Dutch colonialism remains very visible, reflecting significant events in the past that connected this island to the entire world through the spice trade.
In the afternoon, we were treated to an amazing experience. We snorkeled along a coral garden with a dense coral cover that has grown over the lava flow from a volcanic eruption in the early 1980s.
