Location #6: Vanuatu - Maskelyne Islands
We’re back, and we’ve got more to share from our time in the South Pacific island nation called Vanuatu. Of course, here to give you a little reminder that we're journeying to the most remote and interesting dive sites in the world, connecting with people who have dedicated their lives to ocean science, conservation, restoration and discovery.
In the midst of alarming environmental news, this log highlights the progress and positive impact made by individuals and communities—from those living on the fringe to those in the center of it all.?
This log documents one of our most exciting marine encounters, rivaling what we saw in South Australia. We hope these stories and insights from the edges of earth offer a fresh perspective, reminding you there's good things happening all around us and good people all over the world.
WHERE WE’VE BEEN?
July 2023 - Maskelyne Islands, Vanuatu?
Maskelyne Islands are part of the pristine waters of Vanuatu, known for untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage. This archipelago is made up of several islands—most of which are uninhabited. Of those that are, communities are welcoming and people are extremely interested in making those who made the long trek part of their world.?
READ ABOUT IT
Our personal fascination with the only herbivorous marine mammal has been around for as long as we can remember. On a quest to find herding dugongs in the wild, we ended up finding a lot more in one of the most remote parts of Vanuatu.?
WANT TO SEE IT??
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PEOPLE WE LOVE
The level of connection we felt leaving the Maskelyne Islands was just as surprising to us as it was to our partners. It's remarkable how quickly bonds form when values align and collective goals are shared while out to sea. The people who call the unexplored Maskelyne Islands home assured us that this wasn't goodbye, but see you later. We left our hearts on the shores of Batis Bungalow, moved to tears by the deep and real connections formed. The kind that are profound and vital to our survival.?
Sethric Philip: Owner of Batis Bungalow, Sethric serves as the gatekeeper to the remote Maskelyne Islands and one of the few populations of herding dugongs in Vanuatu. Sethric not only built a sustainable haven for travelers but also conscientiously protects the fragile reef systems surrounding his home. Off the grid but deeply connected to his environment, he takes us through the complexities of low tides and the richness of cultural interactions, proving himself not just as our guide but as a steward of this untouched paradise.
Joel Sedrack Philip: A beacon of positivity at Batis Bungalow and a family member of owner Sethric. A specialist in seafood, Joel is committed to sustainable living, preparing heartfelt meals with fish caught fresh from the sea. His culinary skills were honed in hospitality school in the Solomon Islands, and his well-traveled background only enriches the dining experience he offers.?
Jaimeen Kenni: As a Content Writer for the Vanuatu Tourism Office and a student double-majoring in Public Administration & Management and Human Resource & Employment Relations, Jaimeen is not just academically invested but emotionally connected to her homeland. Fueled by her love for Vanuatu, she crafts compelling stories that showcase the beauty and culture of her island home, making her an integral voice in the country's tourism industry.
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