Wednesday 22nd October, aboard the Airaha 2. At last! The explorations can finally begin! We are five days behind schedule, but the impatience felt during these last five days is a motivation for everyone to catch up. The Airaha 2 takes the marine scientific team to the chosen spot for the first diving exploration. Eric, who is a diving instructor, … Continue reading →

On Tuesday 21st October, we arrived in Lobo in the small hour of the morning. Everybody rushed on deck to gaze in wonder at the misty show dissipating over beautiful karst reliefs. It took us 6 hours to reach Lobo. Here, in Triton Bay, the sea is very still. A delegation landed to talk to the villagers. Both ships were … Continue reading →

Monday 20th October, while waiting for the authorisation to leave, people travelling by boat stay on board and those taking the ferry remain ashore. The unexpected arrival of a minister delays the meeting with the BUPATI (the Prefect of the region). We have to wait until the evening to be able to leave. Impatience is growing. But it leaves time … Continue reading →

Sunday 19th October, we must stay in Kaimana for the day. The leaders of the expedition, Laurent, Dr Kadar and Dr Gono have an appointment with the regional prefect (BUPATI) tomorrow morning. On board the Airaha 2, everyone goes back to their favourite activities until they can disembark. Card games and dominoes have been taken out. Everybody is chatting. Today … Continue reading →

Saturday 18th October, the wind is rising. The sea is full of white caps. The boat is pitching. We lost sight of the dhow during the night. But where is it? We are floating around on the water, looking for it. Finally, here it is! And off we go. At 10:45 am the engine suddenly stops. The generator won’t start … Continue reading →