The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook

In August 1777, the Resolution and Discovery arrived in Tahiti after a year-long journey. The crew, especially Mai, eagerly anticipated their arrival. Tahiti, famously lush and sensuous, was a place many sailors had dreamed of visiting. Upon reaching Vaitepiha Bay, Mai experienced an emotional reunion with his sister and other islanders. However, his return was marred by his desire for revenge against Bora Bora invaders and the discovery that a Spanish expedition had visited during Cook’s absence, claiming the island and converting some Tahitians to Catholicism. Despite this, Cook maintained his composure and continued with his mission. The Spanish influence did not entirely overshadow Mai’s welcome, though his behavior and attempts to impress his people, including an awkward display of horseback riding in armor, revealed his struggle with identity and acceptance.

In August 1777, Captain Cook decided to leave Vaitepiha Bay for Matavai Bay after determining that the Spanish colonial efforts had failed. Before departing, Cook proposed a vote to reduce and eliminate the daily grog ration to conserve supplies for their Arctic voyage, and the crew agreed. In Matavai Bay, Cook and his men were warmly received with a mix of revelry and bartering, though tensions simmered beneath the surface.