Ningaloo Reef

This morning, we drove out to Osprey Bay — the real start of our adventure. We unloaded the kayak trailer and packed everything we’d need for the next four days into our kayaks: food, water, gear — the works. Wow. So much stuff stuffed into each kayak. 9 kayaks in total. 3 Guides and 6 double kayaks.
The sun was out, and although the air was still quite cool, the ocean looked irresistible in its stunning shades of aqua.
Now it was time to gear up for our first paddle — about 4 km, fully loaded. That first 1–2 km into a headwind was tough. Definitely had a few of us wondering how we’d manage the rest of the trip!
At about the 4 km mark we had our first snorkel. The water was surprisingly warm, and what a reward: sea turtles everywhere! Big, graceful adults and shy little ones darting under rock ledges as we swam by like giants. It was magical.
Back on shore, we geared up for the second leg of our paddle — about 2 km. The first couple of kilometers were tough, heading into a stiff wind. Once you get into a rhythm and groove with your kayak buddy it’s a hoot.
We stopped at Pilgramunna Bay around lunchtime — and what a bay. Crystal-clear turquoise water, white sand, not a cloud in the sky, and no communication with the outside world — total bliss. Everyone was starving, and the food tasted extra good after all that paddling.
Another snorkel revealed a whole new underwater world — more coral this time, and schools of colorful fish. We even spotted a big ray gliding by.
Then it was back in the kayaks for the final 5 km stretch to our campsite. About 11 km paddled today. We found the perfect spot: a valley nestled between sand dunes, well-sheltered from the wind. Camp North Bloodwwood. We set up our tents, then relaxed with wine, cheese, and biscuits as the sun dipped low over the Indian Ocean. Dinner followed, and we all hit the sack early — totally exhausted, cold now ( evenings get really cold) but so happy. That delicious exhausted feeling you get after a full day of exercise and activity.Читать далее