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Manta’s were cruising, either individually or in groups at the Lighthouse Bommies

date: 1/5/2009
Author:Jess Howard

Weather: Sunny and Beautiful
Air Temp: 25ºC
Wind: South/South Easterly 15-20 knots
Water Temp: 24ºC
Water Visibility: ~20 metres
Sea State: Slightly choppy

Critter Encounters:
One word to describe the day, AWESOME!

Manta’s were cruising, either individually or in groups at the Lighthouse Bommies, Turtles surfaced for breaths right next to the glassbottom boat, and masses and masses of beautiful colourful fish allowed themselves to be photographed and remembered by all who snorkelled, dived, and rode the boats today! Apart from the amazing Manta Rays at the Lighthouse, the turtles lay comfortably and rested on the actual coral, occasionally glancing up at the boat above them. Whilst in the water, snorkellers swam through the enormous circling school of Big-Eyed Trevally, at Sandy Seconds.

Interested Historical walkers ventured to the western side of the island to take a quick peek at the graveyard, take a look at the old and new Lighthouses, and learn how Lady Elliot has developed over the years.

Afternoon divers sat at the Lighthouse Bommies, just watching the Manta Rays circle overhead. Many minutes and memories later, the Mantas glided off, leaving the divers to find something else to gaze at for the rest of their dive. They substituted with turtles, the massive school of trevally, and a huge Batfish who enjoyed watching the divers as much as they enjoyed watching him.

The night came on quickly with an amazing sunset, which was viewed by most as 6 Green turtle hatchlings ran down the beach at Coral Gardens towards the glowing horizon. The hatchlings were found by guests throughout the day wandering around the island, looking a bit lost.

After dinner, most guests and staff wandered off to bed, to enjoy the sound of lightly falling rain as they drifted off to sleep, ready to face another gorgeous day tomorrow, on this magnificent coral cay.

Jess releasing hatchlings - J Fox