Day 14
(last night WAS a curry night!)
Had an early alarm again as our tour today was to Rok and Ha Islands and the transport was scheduled to arrive between 7:00am and 7:30am. We hoped for the latter as breakfast started at 7:00am! I just got the first spoonful of Museli to my mouth when a minibus drove into the turning circle. Fortunately it was to take someone to the airport and we were able to eat our regular 3 course breakfast, albeit rather hurriedly! A ute with seats in the back facing each other and no seat belts, arrived and we piled in and collected some other passengers, all Chinese, from nearby resorts. In fact, we were the only Caucasians on board and the boat held 70 passengers in rows similar to an aircraft. One of the tour guides repeated the announcements in English for us, although not to everyone but just to us. We felt very special! It took 2 hours to reach Rok Island which is in fact 2 islands close together. A minor issue en route as we hit 'a large fish' as it was reported to us and apparently had to be disentangled from the propellor of one of the 4 250hp engines. The sea was a little choppy as the wind was up a bit. We then went snorkelling at Rok Island which was lovely. The water was deep and very clear. Lots of Clown Fish (Nemo) and many other species. Large boulders of coral although not the fine branched type that we get on our Great Barrier Reef. After an hour or so when motored to the jetty and had a swim at the beach where the water was also very clear. Snacks were served before lunch comprising all sorts of odd shaped things, all with different flavours. After about 20 mins the main meal was served and we sat at tables under a roof in the shade. Had a nice Green Curry with rice. Sat on the beach for another hour or so and Lisa swam, before we left for Ha Island which was back towards Krabi. Took about 1/2 hour to get there. This was several islands all close together and the snorkelling was lovely here as well. Passed Phi Phi Islands on the way back and they also served fresh Pineapple and Watermelon on the way. Got back to Ao Nang after 5:00pm just in time to shower and get to the restaurant to watch the sunset and be entertained with Manora Dance (a traditional Thai dance) and Thai Boxing. Actually, I must be honest here, we left just before the Thai Boxing started and went to bed! One performance of Thai Boxing is possibly enough for this trip/lifetime!