After many days of long driving, under a tiring sun, CUER had a planned spell of two and a bit days off. This was timed to coincide with the team arriving at Airlie Beach, where we were booked to go sailing on the “Habibi”.
The boat was a sail boat (though it also had a diesel, just in case), and was very nice. There were a crew of three: the Skipper, Gilles, Dave the Deckhand and AJ the Chef. On the first day we sailed out, under beautiful sky, with a beer or two. It was most relaxing, and just what the team needed.
After taking a couple of stunning photos of the boat, Mike belatedly realised that he had forgotten to get on board
On the second day the boat set sail early, at 6am, whilst I was having a rest until breakfast at 7. After this the team went snorkeling in the coral reef. This was a truly amazing experience, especially for me, as I have never done anything at all like it. I was amazed to see the variety of fish, and of the coral. Fortunately we were lucky enough to have Rich Barnwell with us too, and, as he was raised in the idyllic settings of Bermuda he also acted as a guide to many of the tropical fish. Cheers Rich!
Unfortunately, Charlie had been wearing his snorkel when the wind changed.
There was more snorkelling, and also more drinking done in the evening, before we anchored up by Daydream Island. The final morning involved a brief snorkel, and then a gentle sail back to port.
Lucy and Anthony wondered why they couldn't see the beautiful sunsets that everyone was always talking about
This was an amazing break, and something I have never done before. I would expecially like to thank Laura for taking the time to organise this!
Mike
Snorkelling photos:
Fish (quite possibly a diamond-backed herring) on reef
A parrotfish chomping on coral
Unidentified species
