A pleasant Friday
morning, after the 8.30 net was finished we sauntered to the dinghy
dock at the Barracuda Bar for a 9.30 pick-up courtesy of Skizzo's
Water Taxi. A 30 minute ride over glassy calm water which was
pleasantly clear of rubbish for a change. We docked at the historic
'Point Baleine', a former whaling station. Here we were greeted by
'Coach' our guide for the visit. Coach has known of these limestone
caves since he was a boy, his geological knowledge has grown since
then making the experience truly enjoyable and educational. During
term time pupils visit as part of their curriculum.
So, onwards and
upwards a 10 minute walk up a 30 degree incline which took us to the
northern side of the island.
Here was a classroom /
rest-stop with a verandah to view the seascape and drink cool water.
Next a 20 degree incline down to the cave system on the southern
side. Coach told us when he was a boy he and his friends used to
enter via a tree with a rope to scramble down. Nowadays, the CDA,
have provided steps and electric lights so that tourists and pupils
can visit without disturbing this ecological niche. There were no
rules about taking digital photos..... if only I could find the
correct settings!
AND we were allowed to
swim in the 'Blue Grotto' – a 30 m pool in the main cave. Here at
the right time of day the sunlight dapples the aquamarine pool.
Although neither too cold nor freshwater it was pleasantly refreshing
after the hike to get there.
Animal life on
the island? Well, we were told there are snakes and small mammals,
large arthropods (-one had fallen into the pool!), and fruit bats
which, being nocturnal were roosting. I think some were light
sleepers as a few flew around as we passed by.
Lastly how amazing –
Barnacle Bill noticed a 'Challenge' T-shirt, a member of the Compac
crew so they had a chat on the taxi ride home. I'm still waiting for
the update on BB's hike to the falls the other week, don't hold your
breath waiting....
