Snapshot Reef

23 November 08

Winds are still a problem, so we took the morning to do a little beach survey around Rocky Point and Lindsey Reef. This involves taking measurements of the incline of the beach as it works its way toward the sea. This gives the ecologists an idea of the erosion levels along these shores. It was a good project to complete while we waited for the wind to die down.

As afternoon approached, we found the winds had subsided and it was HOT in the sun. Just what we wanted. So we packed up the snorkeling gear and drove to French Bay. The wind was horrible and there were tourists on watercraft, so we turned to plan B, which involved driving over to Telephone Pole Bay. It sounds like we travel for hours to get from one place to another, but when you consider that the island is only five miles by ten miles, it takes almost no time at all to get where we want to go.

One of our expedition leaders, Paola, suggested that we swim out to the reef drop off, about 1000 yards from shore in Telephone Pole Bay. About half way out to the drop off is a beautiful reef called Snapshot reef. A buoy to help us find our way out and back marks this reef. I have to admit that I was a little intimidated by the idea of going out so far and to swim in water that is over 6000 ft deep at the drop off, but what do you do? I must say that it was amazing! We identified several coral; brain coral, lettuce coral, fire coral and a variety of colorful fish. We did get to see a stingray and a Barracuda. The Barracuda actually shot up towards one of our team members to check out his fin. Luckily this five-foot animal with razor sharp teeth was not interested and turned around to head back to the ocean floor. It was also lucky that this team member did not know the Barracuda was investigating him or he would have freaked. He had just been talking to us earlier about a friend of his that was attacked by a Barracuda. I have to admit that I did not feel threatened, but I can now understand how quickly things can happen. I also found out that a five-foot shark was out at the drop off. I did not see this animal or I would have possibly lost it. All I can say is that I am grateful for experienced researchers that know what they are doing and are looking out for a novice person like myself.