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While holidaying in Aitutaki at least one lagoon tour is an absolute 'must do'
There are several different lagoon tours which can last almost an entire day. Probably the most well known would have to be Air Rarotonga's day tours on board Titi-ai-Tonga, a large double huller cameraman styled vessel that cruises quietly in the lagoon. Here you can sit down to a meal that is served by the friendly staff and after that there's snorkelling in the lagoon.Visitors are taken to One Foot Island, which boasts what could be the worlds smallest post office, what a treat.
Alternatively there are other smaller operators offering day cruises and glass bottom boat tours. A water taxi can take you off to your own private island so you can enjoy an intimate day on the motus (small uninhabited islands) snorkelling, sunbathing or having a picnic and just relaxing in the gorgeous sunshine of the Cook Islands. The taxi will then come and pick you up after an amazing day out on you own.
Aitutaki has intriguing history. The first European discovery was by a Captain Bligh sailing on the Bounty in the year 1789. Bligh returned to Aitutaki and is said to have introduced the pawpaw, which, like other varieties or tropical fruit, grow in abundance all over the island, ready to pick and eat if you find the right ones. The first missionary to the Cook Islands was John Williams, who visited Aitutaki before any of the other islands, whether this was due to the stunning scenery compared to the other islands we will never know.
From the air Aititaki has to be one of the most beautiful sights in the world. This vast lagoon was once a stop over for the Tasman Empire Airways flying boat service.The flying boat would tie up at a jetty on Akaiami Island, while locals would serve refreshments.
The best way to see the island mainland is with a four wheel drive, or small scooter which can be hired from several outlets. A winding road criss-crosses the island with lots of small tracks that lead you to uncover hidden secrets that won't be seen on a guided tour. Only a small drive or walk up Mt Maunga Pu provides a fantastic 360 degree view of the entire vista.
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