A group of very excited scuba divers with Great Adventures Cruises at Green Island were treated to a rare encounter with a young adult dugong. Estimated to be around 2 metres in length, this was the first dugong sighting recorded by Great Adventures divers at Green Island in several years. It was also the first ever sighting for videographer Dan Liu and two very lucky introductory divers on holiday from Ballarat Victoria. “It was so exciting to see! He was very curious swimming near us as the group were diving on a nearby coral bommie. He came close within about 4 metres, swimming away and then coming back for another look before swimming off over the seagrass beds,” said Dan Liu. Dugongs, often called sea cows, as they graze shallow seagrass meadows (eating up to 40kg a day!) are found across the tropical belt in Australia. They reach a length of 3 metres, live up to 70 years of age and can weigh as much as 400kg. Dugongs are fascinating mammals, sharing a common ancestor with elephants, and early sailors are believed to have confused them for mythical mermaids. They are most closely related to the manatee, their northern hemisphere relative. They resemble a large dolphin but lack a dorsal fin and have an upper lip covered in thick bristles. They are well designed for aquatic life, with nostrils situated on top of their heads so they can breathe, and have a large, strong tail that propels them through the water. Their eyes and ears are on the side of their heads. Although their eyesight is poor, they have an acute sense of hearing.” Dugong are threatened on a worldwide scale and in Australia, are a protected species under various legislation including the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975. This important sighting will be reported to GBRMPA’s Eye on the Reef monitoring program contributing valuable information about these endangered creatures as well as the long-term protection and management of the reef. Video credit Dan Liu, Island Photography Australia

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When we're not racing our liveaboard sailboat, the cat loves to sleep on the spinnaker bags no matter where they are. It's his favorite boatcat nap spot.

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The Adriatic Sea is known for its stunning coastline, dotted with picturesque islands and crystal-clear waters. Among these is the Kornati archipelago, a collection of over 140 islands, islets, and reefs. Nestled within this natural paradise is Suha Punta, one of the most enchanting spots in the Kornati Islands. Why Visit Suha Punta? Unspoiled Nature: Suha Punta is part of the Kornati National Park, a protected area that preserves the unique flora and fauna of the region. The park is a haven for wildlife, and visitors may spot rare birds, marine life, and even dolphins in the surrounding waters. Adventure and Exploration: The Kornati Islands are a paradise for sailors and adventurers. Suha Punta, with its secluded location, is a popular anchorage for yachts and sailboats exploring the archipelago. The surrounding waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and fishing, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Tips for Visiting Suha Punta Bring Supplies: As Suha Punta is a remote location, it's essential to bring enough food, water, and other supplies for your visit. There are no shops or restaurants in the immediate area. Respect the Environment: The Kornati National Park is a protected area, so visitors are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment. Avoid littering, respect wildlife, and follow any guidelines provided by the park authorities. Visiting Suha Punta with Alitis Yachting and a skipper is a fantastic way to explore the Kornati Islands in style and comfort. Here's how you can plan your trip: 1. Contact Alitis Yachting Website or Phone: Visit the Alitis Yachting website or contact them directly via phone or email to inquire about available yachts, itineraries, and prices. Choose Your Yacht: Alitis Yachting offers a variety of yachts for different group sizes and preferences. Discuss your needs, including the size of your party, desired amenities, and travel dates. Request a Skipper: If you prefer a guided experience, request a professional skipper. A skipper will navigate the yacht, provide local knowledge, and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. 2. Planning Your Itinerary Starting Point: Most trips to the Kornati Islands with Alitis Yachting start from the town of Murter or nearby marinas like Zadar or Šibenik. Discuss your preferred departure point with the Alitis team. Customized Route: Work with your skipper to create a customized itinerary that includes Suha Punta. The skipper can recommend other beautiful spots within the Kornati archipelago and suggest the best routes based on weather conditions. Duration: Determine how long you wish to spend exploring the Kornati Islands. A day trip is possible, but a multi-day journey allows for a more relaxed experience, with time to explore additional islands and enjoy activities like snorkeling and swimming. 3. Preparing for the Trip Packing Essentials: Bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, and light clothing. If you plan to snorkel, you might want to bring your own gear, although many yachts provide this. Food and Drink: Discuss provisioning options with Alitis Yachting. Many yachts can be stocked with food and beverages before departure, and the skipper can suggest spots to dine or arrange a picnic on one of the islands. Documents: Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including identification and any paperwork required by Alitis Yachting. 4. During the Trip Relax and Enjoy: With a professional skipper at the helm, you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery as you sail towards Suha Punta. The skipper will handle all the navigation and docking. Explore Suha Punta: Upon arrival at Suha Punta, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the rugged coastline, or simply relax on the yacht. The skipper can guide you to the best spots and provide insights about the area. Overnight Options: If you choose to stay overnight, you can sleep on the yacht anchored in a peaceful bay under the stars. This offers a unique and serene experience. 5. After the Trip Return to Base: Your skipper will navigate back to the starting point, where you'll disembark. Feedback: Share your experience with Alitis Yachting and leave any feedback. If you enjoyed the trip, consider planning future voyages with them to explore other parts of the Adriatic Sea. Conclusion Visiting Suha Punta with Alitis Yachting and a skipper offers a luxurious and hassle-free way to experience the beauty of the Kornati Islands. With a customized itinerary, expert navigation, and the comfort of a private yacht, it's a perfect choice for those seeking an unforgettable Adriatic adventure.

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Corso di apnea in mare aperto, ormai un appuntamento fisso dei tour organizzati da funcharter.it. Crociera di free diving in barca a vela alle isole Eolie, praticare apnea con un istruttore dedicato

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Tobago Keys, I love you—and the turtles too! Feel the passion for this Caribbean paradise and its amazing wildlife in this heartfelt moment. #tobagokeys #love #caribbean #turtles #wildlife

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