Moorea/French Polynesia

2/25/2024 Moorea

We had gotten together as a group again, this time for a snorkeling expedition. Tender No. 3 took us ashore, where our tour guide met us and took us to his boat.

We cruised around for a while in a vain search for dolphins. At some point we stopped searching and headed to our first snorkeling spot. There we saw many, even larger, often colorful fish, including blacktip sharks.

After half an hour we went to the next point: the territory of the green sea turtles. Through our goggles we saw at least six.

Now we asked for some refreshment, which we received in the form of banana juice with rum at our “sea bar”.

Now we moved on to our next destination. We didn't need any snorkeling equipment because everything took place here in shallow water. We were greeted by large stingrays who also liked to be petted. A great feeling, even if the rays felt a little slippery. Small sharks kept scurrying around us.

While we played with the rays, our tour guide prepared lunch: chicken drumsticks, fish fillets, rice, French fries and sauce. After our "table" was halfway in the water, we kept in contact with the rays while we enjoyed the food.

After eating I wanted to do something good for the rays and fed them chicken leftovers. Unfortunately one of the rays was too greedy and bit me hard on the calf. Luckily, the wound was immediately cleaned and disinfected by the tour guide.

As a precaution, I skipped the snorkeling session after dinner within sight of the coral reef.

Afterwards we went back to our ship with boat and tender.

My bite wound looks like a strong bruise and is not an open wound. What worries me more is the sunburn that is starting to appear despite all the precautions.