March 12, 2025

RIO DE JANEIRO - Day 4 - Friday 3/7/25

We had signed up for city tours back in December when we thought we would only have 2 days in this port. So today, we were part of a  group of 60, spread over 3 buses,with separate guides. Our guide was Lucas and our first destination was the train station to go up to the Christ the Redeemer Statue. We had express tickets which allowed us quicker pathways through the crowds to board the train and take the 20 minute ride up the mountain. The view from the top is amazing! You're in the clouds which swish in and out constantly.

Below is detailed history of how the statue came to be. It is covered in a mosaic tiles, therefore making it the largest art deco installation in the world. It was built in 5 years 1926 to 1931, therefore dominating the skyline for 90+ years. It was made from reinforced concrete and has a hollow core which you can go up inside and see his Heart. 

PAPEETE, FRENCH POLYNESIA

By Patricia Patrick • January 19, 2026
I got to go Sailing Again! We were supposed to head to the COOK ISLANDS after the lovely Rangiroa and the Tuamotu Archipelago, but due to stormy weather there, with all unprotected tender ports, they made the decision to head us southwest, back to the protected port in Papeeta (Tahiti). We got lucky and Holly ( pictured below) found us a sailboat available for charter.

RANGIROA, FRENCH POLYNESIA - Drone Shots

By Patricia Patrick • January 14, 2026
Since Janette Emerich is generous enough to share her drone photos with all of us on board the Ship, I have to share them with you all. This beauty is why I said we felt like we were in a screen saver the whole day in Rangiroa! I love the height perspective in the photos it really captures so much more. Blue Lagoon below:

RANGIROA, FRENCH POLYNESIA - More Drift Snorkeling

By Patricia Patrick • January 13, 2026
The water in Rangiroa is so spectacular, I wanted to spend more time drift snorkeling and checking out the area called " The Aquarium ". So today I went back out for a 3 hour session to do 3 drift passes in Tiputa pass and then spent an hour in an area with wonderful healthy corals and tons of fish, earning it the nickname " The Aquarium ".