Port Douglas 2013 - Low Isles

Our third visit to the Low Isles was another enjoyable day. The weather was perfect for the one hour sail to the Low Isles aboard the catamaran, Sail Away.  

Arriving at the islands, those wanting to snorkel did so while the rest of us explored the island or just relaxed. 

It was low tide and a group of pelicans was resting on a sand bar. 

I walked round the island looking at the patterns made by coral and shells in the sand 

and water and generally enjoying the beauty of the island. 

We spent some time watching a flock of seagulls diving to catch baitfish in the shallow water on one section of the reef. Lemon sharks were also hunting the baitfish and fins of the sharks could be seen cruising through the water in the same area. 

I also visited the display of shells and

coral, starfish and sponges found on the reef.

On the boat returning to the catamaran Brett guided the boat slowly over the coral reefs allowing us to have a great view of the coral and the fish through the glass bottom of the boat. We also saw a giant turtle but the many smaller turtles that we have seen on previous occasions were absent this time. 

After lunch a group of black tipped sharks and a couple of batfish swam around the catamaran. 
Some of the passengers went snorkelling from the back of the boat before we returned to Port Douglas. 

The trip back proved quite an adventure with water from some of the waves hitting the front of the craft and drenching those in the vicinity. Another great day.