As the National Geographic Orion sailed towards the D'Entrecasteaux Islands Group, we were surrounded by remarkable green mountainous islands. Located at the southeastern end of Papua New Guinea, some of these islands are remnants of magnificent but now extinct volcanoes. An interesting reminder that our expedition is travelling through geological features situated at the enthralling ring of fire or circum-Pacific belt, a direct result of plate tectonics and the movement and collisions of lithospheric plates. Another noteworthy element of this once-dynamic magmatic area is the active thermal springs and mud pools found at Fergusson Island. Boarding our Zodiacs, we navigated through a myriad of healthy coral reef systems and set to explore the remote Dei Dei village and surrounds.
We were greeted by fierce warriors and friendly locals, had the opportunity to meet the local landowners, and after a brief introduction enjoyed a short walk took us to the spiritual but eerie hot springs and geysers landscape. Here we discovered more about this mysterious island, famous for its sorcery, magic and cannibalism. Locals believe that after a lovers argument, ‘Seuseulina,’ a beautiful woman threw herself into the boiling spring, and now, if you call her name, the geyser spirit will erupt in anger. The hot spring is also a giant open cooking pot where you can boil your food wrapped in Pandanus and coconut palm leaves. Dei Dei is also a great place for birdwatchers, with eclectus roratus or commonly known as eclectus parrot, nectarinia jugularis, the yellow belly sunbird, and the Papuan endemic species manucodia comrii, curl-crested manucode, frequently observed in the area. Also, many native orchid species were sighted, a delight for the eyes and cameras.
In the afternoon we had a chance to snorkel and dive at Twin Towers despite the strong, but nonetheless refreshing breeze. Armed with fins, masks and skinsuits, we plunged into the Papuan tropical warm seas. Dazzling corals and colourful fish were observed, while our faithful Tom Ritchie entertained and informed guests with his glass bottom Zodiac tours. At night our talented National Geographic Orion crew impressed us with their singing and dancing skills, a great fun way to end another amazing expedition day at New Guinea.
