Profile
Blog
Photos
Videos
Out the door by 6:30 am! The warm air greeted us along with an already high sun. It's no wonder many Australians are early risers. There is a lot going on early in the morning, including a variety of birds that fill the morning with a cacophony of calls.
Airlie Beach was the start for our Whitsunday Cruise aboard the Camira high-performance sailing catamaran. The cruise director had entirely too much energy for that early in the morning, but it was contagious and as we boarded, we were nothing but smiles. We got under way and, although it was warm, the ocean breezes and the speed of the catamaran kept us cool and content.
Our first stop was at an inner reef area for snorkeling. By this time, we'd become pros at this activity, but nature had thrown in a new challenge. Stingers were in the water and we all had to wear stinger suits. Minutes after getting off the boat, Barry came face to face with a large "snotty". He backed off quickly and didn't suffer any damage, but as other people saw various stingers in the water, hands went up quickly to go back on board - Tessa included. Connor was the next to get back on board, but Barry and Margaret stayed until the end. It was a shame that the stingers caused so much panic, since it really was a lovely area.
Our next stop was even more amazing as we anchored off of Whitehaven Beach. This beach features pure white silica sand fringed by brilliant blue water, and is consistently recognized as one of the top ten beaches in the world. We went on a walk along the beach, playing Frisbee and enjoying the heat. Unfortunately, we didn't swim because we were tired of the stinger suits. Connor went into knee-deep water, however, and still managed to get stung. Luckily, treatment with vinegar worked fine and in a few hours the sting had disappeared.
The cruise back to shore was wonderful. After an amazing steak barbeque and free drinks, the captain turned off the engine and we sailed silently. There is no doubt - the Lewises are definitely boat people. We have decided that the Whitsundays are outstanding!
That night, yet another outstanding meal (Thai food!) at the Wells' place left us overwhelmed with this gorgeous country and its inhabitants. Pat and Bertha's wonderful stories and great company were a highlight of our trip and we will never forget our time at Dingo Beach.
- comments