Blanche Bay

Blanche Bay is a bay in Rabaul in New Britain, Papua New Guinea. In 1872, the HMS Blanche, commanded by Captain Cortland Simpson, discovered the bay and named it. On Rabual, Kokopo offers a stunning view of nature at its most forceful, right in the middle of the volcanoes.

There are a few resorts and hotels with waterfront views in the area, but the harbor's most striking feature is the backdrop of smoking volcanoes, notably the massive Tavurvur. The waterfront, where banana boats (speed boats) dock on the beach's east end and their drivers wait for a charge or go fishing, is a great place to soak in the atmosphere. These boats go across the province, including the Duke of Yorks and New Ireland.

Under the shade of the large trees, the operators typically sleep through the noon heat or congregate in small groups, playing cards and listening to string bands on their salty ghetto blasters. Blanche Bay is one of the most attractive destinations in this beautiful country.

• Location: Kokopo