Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
by Iga Januszewska
(Poland)
Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef
This day trip to the Great Barrier Reef was even more than I expected! It was an adventure which is the envy of all my friends! I couldn't get over how beautiful it is! And so calm and relaxing, although when I got out of the water I was very exhausted :)
Travel Logistics
I was travelling with my friends through 4 states of Australia, without some detailed itinerary.
We just asked for tips in information offices and other people we met then, for example at the campsite.
We booked the Great Barrier Reef trip through the tourist information office in the city centre of Cairns.
Unfortunately I don't remember the name of the boat agent, but it was a company from Cairns.
Boat
It was quite a big boat, I think for about 40 passengers, with a special platform on the bow for sunbathing.
The crew was very kind, professional and funny; all needed facilities were provided, also food.
We got hot and cold drinks included (tea, coffee, juice and mineral water), cereal cookies and a dinner dish – to choose - vegetarian or not. Both were tasty and nutritious.
Weather and Sea Conditions
The weather was perfect that day - it was sunny, hot, but not too hot :) Until we went back to the harbour there was a little shower :)
The visibility was great! All clear! And fishes seemed to be closer than in reality.
I didn't get seasick but my friend did, she used medication which she got from boat crew but it worked only after she already got sick...
Snorkeling/Diving
Some of the passengers were diving with all equipment and have some kind of exams to achieve diving certificates.
I and my 2 friends were only snorkelling, but the Great Barrier Reef is so attractive that it was enough for us! I found Nemo!!! I saw all the colourful fish I always admire on Discovery Channel, and amazing corals, jellyfishes, starfishes, sea-urchin and even shrimps!
A nice addition was that we were accompanied by dolphins, they kept apart (not swimming with passengers) but close enough to take photos of them from the boat.
Accommodation
That night we stayed in our camper at campsite in the centre of Cairns.
Tips and Advice
Don't underestimate the likelihood of eventually getting seasick! It is the worst and probably only thing that could destroy your memories from that breathtaking place! PREPARE YOURSELF!!!
And don't worry if you can't swim very well – everyone could get swimming foam from the crew which helps you to stay at the surface, and all the treasures of the reef are visible even without dipping!
Don't forget your hat and waterproof sunscreen.
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