shark and rays

We scheduled three activites. Or rather the Resort scheduled them all  for us. The only one that did not turn out was paragliding. The wind conditions were not good and they offered to re-schedule us for the following day, which was the day were were leaving. We were bummed to not be able to go, but it leaves something new to do next time.
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The jet-ski tour was great, but too short. I think we could have stayed out for hours. You need to go with a guide, whom you follow, as there are reefs and shallows everywhere. It was great and we'd definitely do it again.

The shark and ray tour was also set up by the Resort, and one I would absolutely do again. The boat "Shark Boy" picked us up at the dock in the morning, along with some other guests. We got water and towels from the hotel and lathered on tons of sunscreen.

Steven was our guide, captain, and entertainment. It was impressive how he could drive, sing, and play the ukelele-all at once.

First he took us to see the sharks, along with a few Sting Rays and other fish.

It was really amazing, how much there was to see. You could stand the whole time, or just float and stare down at the incredible show.

The Sting Rays were magnificent. And big. Steven told us you didn't need to be concerned about being stung, they were actually very gentle and playful. They felt like big slimy,rubber discs, covered in fine sand paper. At first it was a little disconcerting, especially when they came up to snuggle your chest and back. And they are not slight creatures. I had to grab Shane a few times one did a 'drive by' into me to keep my balance.

Their faces were actually kind of cute and after awhile you start thinking of them as puppies. Steven gave us peices of fish to tantalize them with. We let them eat it before we left.

Steven also told us, in light of Steve Erwin's experience, that if you didn't get in the rays' faces, startle them, or step on them you would be safe. But it was difficult when they carpeted the sand and once three of us found ourselves surrrounded and not able to get back to the boat easily.

We stopped and Steven set up a table and some snacks.