Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Day 36 Coral Bay - 4/4/11

We had a bit of a lie in today but excited to be going on a 2 hour coral viewing and snorkelling tour.

The boat was in the shallow waters and we had to wade out to it to get on.  The middle of the boat had a glass bottom and everyone sat around it.  Before we got underway you could see the fish swimming around under the boat and then as soon as we set off you could see the coral.  It was amazing.  Some was white, lots were brown and there was some that was brilliant blue and also green. 
The boat to the left is the one we did the coral viewing on 

Peter on the boat 
Coral through the glass bottom 
Fish in the coral 
More coral

The skipper took us out to the outer reef for a snorkel.  There was quite a big swell there and it was quite deep so I decided to take a noodle out with me.  Once I got in the water it was magical.  So much coral and brightly coloured fish in all shapes and sizes.  We were also lucky to see a couple of turtles. I found it difficult trying to get back on to the boat because of the swell and the movement of the boat.  A hand from the skipper did the trick.  Much to my dismay I started to feel quite queasy back on the boat.  Funny how it doesn't affect you when you are in the water.  Once everyone was back on board we then went to the inner reef close to shore for another snorkel.  The water was much calmer here.  The two hours went all too quickly but we had a great time.  Peter really enjoyed it as he got to see the coral and marine life.

Waves breaking on the outer reef 
Me snorkelling

Back to the van for lunch, a rest, then back to the beach for another swim and snorkel. 

Peter on the beach

Coral Bay is very popular and winter is their busiest time.  The caravan park is fully booked from the middle of April to the end of October and have a lot of people who have a permanent booking each year.  I can't recommend Coral Bay highly enough.  There is lots of shallow water which is great for young children and the reef is so close for those who want to snorkel.  I could have stayed there for the rest of the holiday but we still have a lot more to see.

Peter and I climbed a lookout tonight to watch the sunset.  Our last one in Coral Bay.............

A view of Coral Bay from the lookout 
Sunset

Tomorrow we are off to Exmouth.

cheers
Pete and Roz

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