Off the deep end

There was time for one last snorkel before we started having to pack up and go back to New Zealand.

The differences between above the sea, and below the water.

These fish hung around the shore line, we would watch them from the beach.

Erik went a little deeper than I did.  He saw Banner fish, snapper, as well as the usual suspects.

Schools of fish hid in this gap between the coral gardens.

One of the biggest fish Erik saw during the Vanuatu visit.

Titan Trigger fish, Moorish Idol, and Angelfish exploring the sea floor.

Iridescent colourings on the deeper fish.

Snapper, damsels and butterflies.

Not sure what this sea creature is, perhaps a type of sea star?

Relax to the max

While Erik was enjoying his last snorkell, the urchins and I relaxed at the water's edge, enjoying mocktails.

Pineapple and chocolate, banana and chocolate, and mango and chocolate were regular orders in the sunny afternoons.  Rich and creamy and yummy.

Anneke liked to have them with her evening meal.

Cuttlefish, fish, and coral safari

Once Erik got back from his ride, and the urchins had done their schoolwork.  Erik and I ventured out together snorkelling the reef.

I am fascinated by how the reef is being regenerated after Cyclone Pam.  Baby bit of coral have been "planted" on concrete platforms.

 Fortunately for us, a Cuttlefish was interested in the sea life that was growing amongst the platforms too.

 Watching the Cuttlefish change it's colouring so quickly is amazing.

Trumpet fish

Erik and I swam with more fish, and saw some brilliant coral structures.

 More blues, fish and coral.

A school of cod joined us, and the sea was full of different types of fish.

Slowly we made our way back to shore.  This beautiful wrasse kept me company part of the way.

 There is so much fish life here, there is always a new fish to see, and more coral to discover.

 Tiny bit of red coral growing in the larger coral.   I love the colour, shapes and textures of the coral

 Such a variety of fish life in extrememly shallow water.

Getting closer to shore, the fish eat the sea bed.  A cleaner fish hung around the parrot fish.

 Just as our snorkelling safari finished, we spotted a Titan Triggerfish eating the coral.

Christmas Tree Worms

 Throughout our visit to Mele Island, there were a number of creatures underwater, that captivated my attention.

View from the top

I have discovered recently these are beautiful worms that live in the coral - Christmas Tree worms.

 If you touch them, they disappear into the coral, leaving an "eyelet" type hole.  When they think the coast is clear, they pop out again.