In the recent past, even expedition ships like Orion would leave Bougainville well to starboard when cruising between Gizo in the north Solomons and Rabaul. It’s a welcome sign of Bougainville’s gradual return to normality after the devastating civil war that cruise ships are once again dropping by.
But yesterday Clipper Odyssey [seen here approaching Buka wharf] made its third trip to Buka in the past year, berthing there for four hours.
The ship’s 50 tourists were mainly Americans and they had a good time observing cultural dances, war relics and markets before returning to the ship, which sailed to Rabaul.
It’s good news for Buka and a great sign for Bougainville.
Story by Aloysius Laukai and Keith Jackson. Pictures by Aloysius Laukai
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