Friday+Jun+19

Today we made memories. Another day to sleep in until 7 am with a leisurely breakfast. We loaded the bus at 9 to drive to the Marina here in Cairns. We loaded onto the boat "Sunlover" and started our 1 1/2 hour ocean ride out onto the Barrier Reef. It was extremely choppy and the ride was like a roller coaster. Needless to say some among the group learned how to use the white bags..some used multiple ones. Some found that laying on the coaches helped, others (including myself) enjoyed the ride standing-up. The staff of the boat was extremely helpful - handing out bags, napkins, cups of ice and then cleaning up after us. I was greatful. We stopped at an island to shuttle some mail and supplies and then headed out into the open ocean. The arrival at the pontoon where we would spend the rest of the day. Off the boat and into the water with our snorkels, fins and masks. The water felt cold at first, but we adjusted early and were amazed the the huge fish - including a HUGE humped Wasse named Wallly that they had trained to swim up next to you for a photo. Most of the students got to see and touch a sea turtle. There was also a glass bottom boat, semi-submersible and a underwater theatre to see out into the amazing underwater world. Some of the group went on a helicopter ride or a SUBA drive. It was all amazing. We got back in town for a free night - but we can't stay up too long. We have another big day tomorrow!!

[|DSC_0412.JPG] Happy faces before we left dock [|DSC_0415.JPG] Snorkeling