The Great Barrier Reef

Today we are making our trip to the Reef.  We have opted for a half day as we won't do the snorkeling and there isn't much to do on Green Island if you don't swim.  It takes us about 45 minutes to get to the island. We walk around a bit waiting our turn on the semi-submersible boat and the glass bottom boat.  The weather isn't perfect, but it doesn't rain much either, so we are happy. The recent rains have made the waters cloudy so our photos don't look exactly like National Geographic, but the story of the coral and all the fish that inhabit the reef is fascinating.   There are over 300 species of various coral. Many are named for what they look like:  brain, cauliflower, boulder just to name a few.

We also see huge clamshells with the live clams in them.

The fish are plentiful and swim in front of our windows within easy viewing.  We also see several turtles and one huge fish with a hook in his mouth.  The guide said he has been around for over 7 months.

By the time we leave the reef, many more have arrived and the waters are filled with snorkelers.    This is the beach at Green Island.

Once we arrive back at Cairns, we eat along the Esplanade, then take a walk out to the beach.  We are astounded at the huge lagoon swimming pool.  We have never seen such a huge one.  This one even has a beach with sand.

This is still part of the lagoon. 

When you see the actual beach itself, you can appreciate why the town of Cairns has invested in this lagoon for all to use. 

   This is the actual beach.  Even at high tide, it is not one where people would stroll or play in the water.