It has always been a dream/bucket list item to visit the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and on October 29th, 2023 we were able to realize that dream.
To begin our journey, we boarded the QuickSilver Wave Piercer fast catamaran in Port Douglas, Australia for a 90 minute trek offshore to the reef and the floating pontoon that would serve as our base of operations for the day. There are 3 semi-permanent pontoons anchored throughout the reef and provide facilities for exploring the area. They include changing rooms, showers, sanitation facilities as well as platforms for easy entry and exit from the water.
The reef is home to several species of stinging jellyfish so we donned full lightweight lycra diving skins for protection before gearing up and heading out for a morning snorkel in the warm 84F degree water. Although recent storms have stirred up the silt and the skies were somewhat cloudy, visibility was still decent and we were able to see for a fair distance. Not too many fish were in attendance.
Dan was able to book the last slot for the afternoon excursion for certified divers, so after a light lunch, he suited up and entered the water, go pro in hand, in search of the elusive reef sea life. Sue stayed aboard to enjoy the hospitality of the pontoon. Total dive time for this 1 tank dive was 34 minutes with a maximum depth of 47ft. Again, the pontoon was an excellent dive platform even if the sea life was not cooperating. A life long dream fulfilled.
