16 Oct 2022

Snorkelling Jacques Cousteau’s Underwater Nirvana

Waking to a tropical wet Sunday many guests joined Captain Hans Soderholm in the Bridge as he skillfully navigated Heritage Adventurer through the glassy cobalt water and island obstacles of Indonesia's Wakatobi National Park.

With the sun out, it was time for a quick breakfast before piling into our Zodiacs and heading for the white sand beaches and wilderness of Pulau Hoga with our Expedition Leader Aaron Russ. Once ashore the birders ventured into the jungle looking for rare endemics, nature lovers joined Rod Morris for an insightful nature walk and the culture enthusiasts joined Suzanne Noakes on a visit to a local village.

As our intrepid groups returned to the beach it was time to cool off and explore the world renowned snorkelling site famously described by underwater explorer and conservationist Jacques Cousteau as an "underwater nirvana". Slipping below the crystal clear water all are in agreement with the oceanic legend as we explore breathtaking coral gardens exploding with life as fish of all shapes, sizes and colour dart among the reef and waving anemones including Banded Sea Krait, Trumpetfish, Chocolate Chip and Blue Seastars, Anemone Fish, Giant Clams, Christmas Tree Worms, Nudibranches, Moorish Idols and more along with a steep coral wall which fades into the blue infinity.

Back on board, all enjoy an afternoon and evening of relaxation, education in the form of lectures from our talented expedition team and exquisite dining from our incredible chefs as Heritage Adventurer cruises towards Buru Island.

Images (c): C.Rayes