I went diving yesterday. First, let me say that I had an awesome time. The HABA trip was nice because there were only 30 of us. Some of the bigger operations take 80-90 or more divers out at once. The American expat who runs the thing, Greg, is a terrific guy who reminds me a little of Mr. Goodwin in that slim, retired, chilled-out sailor sort of way.
If you’re ever on a boat and they suggest that you take some motion sickness pills because it’s going to be choppy, LISTEN. Do as I say, not as I did. The winds out there were 20 knots or so, and the waves got pretty intense in the spots that weren’t broken by the reef. I had to use one of those nice white bags.
I did three dives on South Opal Reef. The first was Bashful Bommie (in 1015, out 1042, depth 16.3m, ABT 27). Saw some Nemos and giant clams, but was terribly inefficient w/ my air. First time in 5 years– it happens.
Second dive was just me and the instructor. Awesome dive. Ayres Rock, in 1115, out 1151, Depth 14.6m, time 30min) Saw a big reef shark (1.5-2m), blue spotted lagoon ray, Nudi branches (or something like that). Much more pleasant than the first but as I came up, my ears got a little weird and I totally got sick before I even got back onto the boat. Felt better after that, though.
The third dive was “Two tone” (in 1250, out 1350, depth 10.2, abt 42). Saw a lot of fish, took a weight off to go down to 4 on my belt– that helped a LOT with maintaining bouyancy and being more efficient with air. I lasted a lot longer down there and didn’t need to use my hands.
Anyway, I took ginger and some other motion sickness thing with lunch between dives 2 and 3 and felt great the whole way home.
The sunset last night was possibly the most beautiful I have ever seen. I can’t describe the hues of red and pink and purple that glowed on the water and over the mountains across the bay. People were running to the waterside to look and take pictures, mouths open.
Last night in Port Douglas was Carnivale. This town feels pretty small– about the size of Sewickley, maybe a bit bigger (just with resorts on the outskirts). There was a big parade with floats, fireworks, and probably 20-40,000 people just generally out partying. It was an awesome day; I just wish I could have shared it.
Today and tomorrow will probably mostly be spent recovering from sunburn and reading. My hour is up so I should go.
Cheers,
Dave