After a leisurely breakfast at Beaches Backpackers and a little last minute shopping around Airlie Beach, we arrived at the dock in the afternoon. The crew were all smiles as they welcomed us on board and we set off sailing! After quite an entertaining run down about living on board and what to expect during the trip we were split into groups: those wanting to snorkel, then certified and intro divers and we geared up for our first dive.
It was my first attempt ever at diving so I was excited and a little nervous but Richi my dive instructor was amazing, on our first attempt he made sure we were comfortable with our equipment while we were still at a spot where we could touch the sand with our toes and any nerves I had dissolved in the sea, Richi made it all so easy and I always felt safe.
He said…if you loved that, the next one will blow your minds… WOW!! It absolutely did!! My favourite was the dawn dive when the fish were still a little sleepy and Manta Ray Drop Off where I got to hang out with a sea turtle and see white tip reef sharks!
After a big day on the reef, Tanya cooked us a spectacular dinner, it was great food, meals like steak and chicken with salads and lots of fruit for breakfast, just what’s needed to start a big day. Our hostie with the mostie was Tanya such a cool chick and looked after me really well especially with lots of yummy gluten free food.
Playing silly buggers on the amazingly beautiful White Haven Beach was a heap of fun and all the girls enjoyed a natural beauty treatment, exfoliating with the powdered sand made and making our legs silky smooth. After a stunning sunset, we’d watch the shooting stars from the deck at night.
Our captain Mike was easy going and great to chat to about life on the reef, Stu our hilarious first mate helped keep us on course and laughing at all times, Dylan showed the certified divers around the reef and from looking at the photos we saw in the slide shows at night, they had a blast, (and just watch me smile with a regulator in my mouth)!
To the amazing Richi, I will be ever thankful for introducing me to the reef and for ’holding my hand’ on the first of many more dives to come. Diving for me was such a peaceful amazing experience and I’m so keen now I’ve booked in to become certified so I can do a night dive on my next trip!
Thank you so much Emperors Wings!!!!
Amber Pitt
Travel Adviser
STA Travel Gold Coast Uni
