Normanby Island

Our last Reef snorkel trip took place on Normanby Island.  It is part of the Frankland Islands national park.  On our way there, we cruised down the Mulgrave river looking for salt water crocs.  Alas, we didn't see any.

Normanby Island is south of Cairns and closer to the continent than our first trip.  There was a lot of algae in the water which made it a little cloudy for snorkeling but the sandy beach was beautiful and the algae brought in all types of fish to feed.

The best thing about Normanby was this is where we swam with the turtles.  I know we saw at least 6 different large green sea turtles.  In fact, we saw one in the shallows and I had to struggle to stay away from it due to the waves.  I didn't want to scare it off!  I was so surprised to see it so close by and in about 4 feet of water.  Robert almost missed it.  (I know - how can you miss something like that?)  The turtle was happily munching on some plants growing on a rock and totally ignored us.  Later, he was swimming along the shore...almost within arm's reach.



Unfortunately, we didn't have an underwater camera with us and have no turtle pictures...only memories!

Mulgrave river on the way to the island

Normanby Island

Mount Bartle Frere - the tallest peak in Queensland.