-by Vlad-

An absolute must for us while in Australia was to see the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), the world's largest coral reef system. After checking out many tour companies, we decided on Passions of Paradise because of reviews, a local referral and a 20% discount for Airbnb users on a steep 159 AUD pp price (gotta save cash where you can while traveling). 

We boarded the catamaran in Cairns harbour along with approximately 60 other thrill seekers and a crew of about a ten people. During the 90 min trip out to the reef, we sipped coffee and snacked on tiny muffins while the chilled out staff went over the itinerary, safety protocols and cracked a few jokes with the multicultural audience (27 degrees Celsius = approx 80 Freedom units). 

Stop one was Michaelmas Cay sandbar island and a bird sanctuary. Snorkelers were allowed to swim up to a tiny sliver of the island since the rest of the sandbar was reserved for about 38 species of birds. This was OK as no one wanted to be on the beach anyhow, there was just too much to see in the water.

It's hard to explain the natural beauty that is the GBR. The mix of vibrant hard and soft coral, crystal clear water and bright, fluorescent coloured fish is something neither Michaelangelo nor Pixar could replicate. Floating in the ocean while gazing upon a majestic underworld was very tranquil. A few highlights included seeing a stingray hanging out on the ocean floor, finding Nemo (we spotted a striped orange and white clown fish), and listening to the scraping sound of parrot fish feeding on the reef. However my favourite part was cruising behind a super chill sea turtle as he effortlessly floated in the salt water while occasionally surfacing for air. 

After about two hours in the water, we lifted anchor and the crew sailed us to another spot while we lunched on an impressive spread of salad, chicken and vegetable stir fries, rice, fresh seafood and fruit. Our second stop brought us different mix of coral and fish. Two locations, over 3 hours in the water and a blazing sun beating down on us left us tired and looking like prunes. It was time for some beer and luckily they sold it on board. 

On the trip back to Cairns, one crew member gave an ecological presentation that was very informative. He went over some of the fish and coral we saw. It's interesting to note that a three inch piece of coral can take up to 20 years to regenerate. Remember, never step on the reef! While snorkeling Edyta and I both felt tiny bites or stings on our skin which were not very painful but resembled a brief itch or burn. The staff informed us that the little stingers from jelly fish tentacles break off and float in the ocean. While not deadly or very harmful, this 'sea lice' is still active and can be felt by humans.  

Another thing we learned was why we didn't see super vibrant colours underwater as seen on TV.  While the environment was beautiful, it seemed to lack just a little of the HD 1080p Sony Aquos, Beats by Dre, Google Chromecast, curved Samsung TV, Dolby digital, 3D effect. When light hits the ocean surface, certain colours fade as you descend. Reds eventually become green. Discovery Channel, NatGeo and the rest have filters on their camera to add these faded colours back when it reaches viewers. Regardless, the reef and its surroundings was something no special effects could replicate. If you ever have the chance to see the Great Barrier Reef, we highly recommend it. You will not be disappointed. 

Wet suiting up.

Drying the wet suits in between snorkel sessions.  Michaelmans Cay Bird Sanctuary

Just a small sample of the fish we saw. Unfortunately we do not have an underwater camera so we have no photos of the reef.  Relaxing in the deep blue sea. All smiles in the ocean.  Traveling in style. We met Clare and Shang-Chin, both Kiwis, on our excursion. Will they make another appearance in a future post? Stay tuned.  My lunch plate.