Coral

After leaving Hervey Bay we sailed the 45nm North To Bundaberg for a quick overnight stop before making the journey further North 60nm to Lady Musgrave Island. Lady Musgrave was our first Great Barrier Reef experience and it didn't disappoint us at all.

Sunset at Lady Musgrave

Coral island

Our first Barrier Reef Snorkel

We sailed into the coral cay through the narrow entrance channel and anchored with just the reef protecting us from the ocean outside. The water was crystal clear and we could easily see the coral bommies we needed to avoid while anchoring. The island itself is a beautiful coral fringed island with a reef full of fish, corals, turtles and rays. The girls were bursting to get into the water for a snorkel which we did within hours of arrival. It was great to see the fish life on the reef and to encounter two green turtles on our first snorkel. Even better was to see the girls delight at being under the water in this amazing environment. The following days we spent snorkelling and exploring the island.

Aquanauts

Ava and Green Turtle (Can you see it?)

On land the island was home to various birds and the incredible Pisonia tree that actually traps nesting Noddys and then uses their decaying carcasses as fertiliser!

Outside the reef edge we regularly saw Humpback whales cruise past as we sat snugly at anchor.

After a couple of days enjoying the amazing weather, scenery and wildlife we set sail again this morning. We had a speedy sail to windward to arrive 45nm later at Pancake Creek where we are anchored tonight. We are looking forward to exploring the area over the coming days.