A Big Welcome Home to Two Grandsons, a Nephew and to the Tiare Taporo

On November 12 the Tiare Taporo sailed in to Avatiu Harbour, Rarotonga, after a lengthy refit in Lunenberg, Nova Scotia, and a long and eventful voyage via the Panama Canal.

Geoffreyna and I were delighted to welcome my two grandsons, Tiavare (Geoffreyna's Dad) and Royle. 

The eight-person crew was given a traditional pe'e and welcome by young drummers.

The captain was the first to come ashore to be welcomed with garlands of flowers.

Followed by the rest of the crew.

Tiavare responded to the pe'e, on behalf of the crew.

Geoffreyna could not wait to hug her Dad.

She enticed her Dad ashore with an ei.

Others had to be more patient….but it was worth it. Cook Matt with Mum Lyn

Directors of Pacific Schooners - my son Michael, and Garth Broadhead - with the captain of the Tiare Taporo.

A very proud and emotional moment for Michael and me.

And also a proud moment for Rona McKenzie. Her father had served on the original Tiare Taporo.

The Tiare Taporo, finally in her home port of Avatiu.

Flying the Cook Islands' flag.

Michael - checking the Tiare Taporo

The welcome party gave Michael an opportunity to catch up with his sons, as well as my nephew Lawton (engineer of the voyage from Panama) and the first mate Travis.

Dad and sons -serious conversation over a good Panamanian Rum!

Lawton with his wife, Marie, and family.

Number ten grandson, Harry, dreaming about when he will sail on the Tiare Taporo.