January 17th 2009 – swimming with the fishes

A very early start, 05.30, to meet our taxi for the journey to Kizimkazi for our Dolphin tour. It was only about half an hour away and first impressions were that the town was much wealthier than Jambiani, which was explained that this was a traditional and more established fishing destination. On arrival at the beach we could see all the local fishermen bringing in their catches including a large marlin. This was apparently caught close to the shore which I thought was most interesting considering we had to travel 50 miles out in Portugal to see these.

We were then kitted out with snorkelling equipment and taken to our boat, not too dissimilar from the St George albeit with an engine and deeper draught, and we set off. In next to no time we had spotted our first pod of dolphins and I and Megan immediately went over the side to get a closer look. Interesting considering you had to launch on command and whilst the boat was still travelling. It was fantastic though, seeing 10 to 15 swimming close by on our first attempt. After our excitement Ines And Lyns decided to give it a go and as soon as we spotted another opportunity. we all went over the side and experienced the thrill of being between 10 to 30 feet away from these beautiful creatures. All in all we managed to have 4 dives with the last being the best and Lynsey coming almost face to face with one before it turned sharply. All I can say that if you ever have the opportunity to do this grab it with both hands.

The rest of the day was spent lounging around the pool at a local hotel and taking in the wonderful weather and trying to complete who runs Britain which has suddenly become very hard going.

We did meet Megan our organiser who has now given us new work schedules for the classes next week with specific goals to be achieved each week. In some ways I am delighted because we have a structure to work to but it is also daunting because we have specific targets to reach which to be honest I am not sure we will be able to achieve. However it is a great idea and means that even when we leave the new recruits will continue with a set programme rather than guessing where to start etc. As you know this was one of my concerns.

Tomorrow we go to the Jozani forest to see the monkeys by Dhala Dhala, the local bus. Should be interesting.