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two large humpback whales spouting and spy hopping out of the water only 200m off the eastern side

date: 5/6/2009
Author:Nick Brennan

Weather: Patchy clouds, mainly sunshine
Wind: SE/SW 10-15 knots
Water Temp: 23ºC
Water Visibility: 20m
Sea State: Calm

Today was incredible.
It was around 9 O’clock when the first whales for the day were sighted by the dive boat. News quickly spread and before long a small but excited crowd assembled at the beach to see two large humpback whales spouting and spy hopping out of the water only 200m off the eastern side of the island. Everybody gaped in awe at the first whales of the season making there way north to calve on the Great Barrier Reef.

The dive boat was incredibly fortunate to have one of the whales come very close and spy hop out of the water to have a look at guests. Needless to say it was absolutely breathtaking and made a fantastic morning of diving become epic.

Later in the morning the glass bottom boat steamed out to the lighthouse bommies and was lucky to see another two whales spouting in the distance. We are looking forward to a great season of whales here at Lady Elliot. In abundance today were the Manta Rays. Over twenty were seen gliding along the current line sweeping their cephalic lobes to guide plankton into their mouth. Guests were astounded how far you could see into the mouth of these creatures and laughed as a train of them came past the boat. Second reef seemed to be teaming with life. Guests loved the six bar wrasse because of its bright colours and the way it wanted to interact with everybody. Another fish that caught some guest’s attention was the long tom. It was seen close to the surface occasionally leaping out of the water in short bursts of speed making for some amazing viewing.

In the evening a small group of guests came along to reef trivia. It was really good fun and it seemed - by looking at the scores - everybody has learnt a lot from being here. It was a nice way to spend a Friday evening before having another glass of wine and relaxing on the beach to stargaze.

humpback - J Howard