An uninhabited Atoll! We were the sole human beings during our stay. There is no airport or pier. I read that some Bikini islanders were temporarily moved here by the U.S. Government so Bikini could be used for nuclear tests in 1946. Despite its history, I can say this is the most beautiful island I have ever seen.
Approaching the anchorage, we were surprised by many friendly birds hovering over the boat. Stepping onto the beach for the first time, countless birds in the blue sky flew over us, some almost within touching distance.
John liked the total freedom and the sound of nothing but nature. After three nights, I started to worry—especially when it was completely dark with no stars or moon, knowing we were on our own.
Previously, a sailor told us about picking up many lobsters at night during low tide. One night, John woke me up at 1 am. Carrying a big bucket and a flashlight, and wearing a headlamp, we carefully walked on the jagged reef. Crabs were moving quickly all over. They were a smaller kind of crab, so we didn’t want to catch them. When the tide came in high, we stopped our night outing with a bit of disappointment: not even a single lobster. Mission unsuccessful!
It was unforgettable, owning Rongerik Atoll all to ourselves for almost a week. John wanted to stay longer, but I was worried about our food. We hadn’t shopped in three weeks, and it would take at least two more weeks to reach a store, depending on the weather.
When a good weather window arrived, we raised our sails for the next atoll. I left feeling fulfilled, carrying a lifetime supply of souvenirs: photos and videos of unspoiled beaches and the friendliest birds I’ve ever met.
