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Wind Dancer - LOG 20: Shark Bait



 

After an early morning rise, we made our way to the Northeast side of Moorea to the Tippaniers Hotel for an underwater snorkel excursion.  Though there was heavy wind and rain, our guide assured us that since we were going to be in the water anyway, it would not affect our time.  He was correct by far.  We made it over to a channel in the reef in the 7m powerboat and were welcomed by a number of Sting Rays and Black Tip Reef Sharks.  The guide informed us that they are sedentary and live in this area.  The natural channel made in the reef lagoon occurs due to the runoff of fresh rainwater from the island into the sea and prevents the growth of the coral.  Upon the four feet sand patch is where the rays were convening, with a large drop off of blue to our side.  This channel also helps as a way for boats, big and small to access the lagoon safely.

Our guide had some small fish to give the rays, and they were more than happy to see him.  He explained the way to distinguish the male and female, how their sensory spots worked, where was safe to touch them (top) and how the stingers worked.  He was very informative, but at some points it was difficult to listen while a huge ray was swimming up to your stomach looking for food and a rub.

The sharks were less interested in us and did sort of a circumference swim around us and the boat, not getting too close.  We were told as long as there is enough fish in the area, there is no reason for the sharks to go for people.  There are few instances where a fisherman might get bite, but this is due to them tying the fish they catch to their sides, which I am sure looks like a nice shark treat.

Next it was off to search for spinner dolphins.  They are smaller than the average dolphin and are known for the jump and “spin” out of the water.  We came across of 50 or so and were told this was a small group and usually 100 or more could be seen together.  The guide also had a hydrophone and dropped a thin cord into the water with a speaker attached.  We were able to pick up the chatter of the dolphins that sounded like laughing and the yipping of small dogs.

We also enjoyed some local pineapple juice from the Rotui factory that is named after one of the peaks of Moorea and which the factory is located at the foot of the mountain.

 

The Wind Dancer Crew

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