Day 104 - MAYOTTE, FRENCH COMOROS

 Date: 4/18/2024   Day 104   Port Day: MAYOTTE, FRENCH COMOROS

Description: Located in the Northern Mozambique Channel just off the Southeast African coast, Mayotte is geographically a part of the Comoros Islands but remains an overseas department of France (and thus part of the European Union). The port city of Mamoudzou, Mayotte’s capital, is on the main island of Grande-Terre (also called Mahore). Famed for its scuba diving, the island is home to several diving centers offering access to Mayotte’s world-class corals and reefs. Hike to the top of Mount Choungui for unforgettable views or ride a ferry to the island of Petite Terre to explore a volcanic crater beach called Description: Plage de Moya.

Planned Excursion: PETITE-TERRE DZIANI LAKE (cancelled)

4.5 Hours   Strenuous Activity    # MAY-003: Free

Ride a ferry across the Mozambique Channel to the island of Petite-Terre.  Hike to the summit (500 foot elevation gain) to a crater lake that is bright green and enjoy the sweeping views.  Browse a produce market full of ingredients traditionally used in the local cuisine.

Morning Update: Today is another tendering port anchored in the Mayotte bay.  Many of us really thought the Captain would choose not to attempt the stop.  It is quite windy and the sea's were rough (6.9 foot waves) making it challenging to get on and off the tender's.  However, to our surprise the Captain decided to drop the tender's and start taking folks ashore.  We could see from our balcony all the action with tender operation's.  After watching this we decided to stay onboard today.   Many other folks also made the same choice.  The other factor in making this decision, it's extremely hot and humid even at 8 AM and the excursion had a hike to the lake.  Yesterday was hot enough but today seems hotter and Cathy is having health issues in this heat, swelling in her lower legs and feet.  She didn't want that again today.