Airlie Beach and Great Barrier Reef

For some reason we are waking up very early the last few days. The advantage is that today we got to see a most spectacular sunrise. The crack of dawn, which included a crescent moon, was actually better than the sun peeking over the horizon. 



Today we split up to do different activities, even though it’s not our preferred way to do things. We both originally booked the snorkeling trip at the Great Barrier Reef. Unfortunately, Kristi suffers from pretty severe sea sickness when on a small boat. She doesn’t do well even on the short ride into port from the ship. The reef trip is 1 1/2 — 2 hours each direction. As much as she wanted to go today she knew she’d likely be miserable the whole time. 

So, Jim left at about 9am for the day-long trip and Kristi embarked on a walking tour of Airlie Beach. 

The boat to the reef picked up about 120 passengers directly from the ship (it’s anchored just off shore). On the way out Jim learned that for a little extra he could have an introductory scuba lesson and dive with the instructor. He did do some snorkeling first, but is extremely happy he did the scuba — the difference in the fish and coral just 5 meters deeper was big. Snorkeling was great but the scuba experience was better. The excursion included a full hot lunch and afternoon tea — it was well done. 



There was also an underwater viewing room on the large platform at the reef for those who didn’t want to get in the water. 







By the time we left it was low tide which exposed the top of the reef. 


Of course, this just a tiny portion of the reef which is 1400+ miles long. 

Kristi had a lovely day in Airlie Beach, which is a pretty, upscale seaside town, with … wait for it … a nice beach. She did some shopping and eating. Of course she had ice cream … twice. 









She also spent some time putting the final touches on our ship model. 

The day ended with a sunset as nice as the sunrise … and our side of the ship was facing the right way for both. 




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