Ever
wondered how is it to snorkel/scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef? Believe me,
it is one of the most wonderful experience! To dive in one of the Seven Wonders
of the World; and the most beautiful natural wonder is something one should not
miss when in Australia. Your trip to
Australia is incomplete without a trip to the Great Barrier Reef.
I visited
Cairns on my solo trip to Australia with one of my friends. We booked our budget
reef package with the Compass Cruise for the most adventurous day in
Cairns. And were put up in the Jack
Backpackers. Our hostel was about a five minute walk from the Reef Fleet
Terminal, where the Marlin Jetty is based out of. Many of the tour operators
use Marlin Jetty as their base for pick up and drop off for their tourists.
This place is too good for a stroll too!
Both of us
are non-swimmers and we were all butterflies until the time we were in water. Dressed
in stinger suit, to stay safe from the stingers, we were now ready to step in
water for the first time. Since we were non-swimmers, the crew members were
very kind to take us throughout the stroll in water to witness the mesmerizing
corals and fishes. While my friend opted for snorkelling, I tried my hands at
diving (introductory dive) too!! The crew members were very knowledgeable and
introduces to the equipments to be used in water. This was one experience I would
never like to forget, especially when I have never done this before! One needs to know at least the basic swimming
and a fairly good amount of fitness coz swimming can make one tired. The sea
life is incredible to look at. There are plenty of creatures and one may see
different species according to the seasons. The reef is a home to variety of
fishes and other sea creatures. I was lucky to spot the clownfish,
butterflyfish, angelfish and the little nemo. There were many to add to the
list! So, there is actually no best season as such. You can snorkel/dive
throughout the year. Exploring what is under the water is such a magical
experience. We just didn’t want to get out of the water.
And there
is boom netting added to the adventurous trip. A large net is attached to the
rear of the boat. Divers are dragged through the waters at a fast pace. This
activity definitely adds to the fun element.
I would recommend everyone at least to try
snorkelling even if you are a non-swimmer. And for those who do not enjoy both, you can
book a glass bottom boat tour to see the reef without getting wet.
So, remove
the fear, and enjoy what you have never done before !! Zindagi Na Milegi
Dobara!!
My next aim
– is to get certified for scuba !!
