The journey starts at the islands of the New Hebrides. In Pentecost, David Attenborough marvels at a diving custom. From a 100ft (30m) tower vantage point platform, male islanders complete death-defying dry land diving stunts.
In Tanna, David interviews members of the John Frum cargo cult. The group's members take an unusual interest in radio signalling equipment, and they build intricate scarlet gates and crosses throughout the island.
On the volcanic island of Koro, David Attenborough meets a tribal leader who claims to have extraordinary powers over the creatures of the sea, being able to summon sharks and turtles from the depths of the ocean.
Tonga, an island rich in coconut crabs and fruit bats. In the grounds of the Tongan Palace, David Attenborough meets Tu'i Malila, a tortoise from Madagascar presented to the Tongan Royal Family by Captain James Cook in July 1777.
David Attenborough witnesses the Royal Kava Ceremony that he is fortunate enough to attend whilst in Tonga. Few Europeans have ever seen the regal splendour of this ancient and sacred ceremony, where the female sovereign herself takes part
