OUTDOORS
I
t came gliding out of the depths towards me, the most beautiful creature I had ever seen. My first meeting with a sea turtle in the wild was a magical experience, as unexpected as it was unforgettable. Oman is home to five different species of sea turtle but I was glad to even see one. The only turtle I’d ever seen before then was in an aquarium. I found myself following the marine creature for a long time, not wanting to let it go. The seas around Oman are a goldmine of exotic underwater life in all shapes and sizes just waiting to be explored. With 1,700 kilometres of amazing coastline to choose from, it’s not necessary to go too far to find what you are looking for. If you don’t dive, then snorkelling can still give you a wonderful glimpse of the treasures hidden below the surface. It’s also a great way to cool down from the intense temperatures as the mercury rises. The first snorkels were used in ancient times with hollow reeds for breathing, and the basic idea has not changed much in thousands of years. Many different boat trips for snorkelling and dolphin watching * Most hotels or dive centres rent out depart from Marina snorkelling equipment. Bandar Rowdha every day – just take your * Costs vary greatly so shop around. pick of which one suits * If you are heading out on a boat my presence. It all felt so serene. you best. remember to bring adequate sun With more than 200 species Our destination protection and drink plenty of water. of fish in Oman’s waters, it for the afternoon was The cooler sea breeze is deceiving was a fantastic sight. I even Bandar Khayran, and you can forget just how hot the spotted a couple of fish that I known as BK. It’s Arabian sunshine can be. recognised from the Finding Nemo a well-known and films, which brought a smile well-loved bay 25km to my face. The bright orange south east of Muscat and white striped Clown Fish were just as cute off for snorkelling, diving and relaxing on boats. Bandar screen. Khayran is a secluded bay protected from the sea Those of a nervous disposition needn’t worry. by steep rocky hills and cliffs, all of which add to the The chances of coming nose-to-nose with a shark beauty of the area. is virtually zero as the big boys prefer to stay out Once inside the bay and on the calm flat waters in open sea where their prey, including tuna, are – away from the jet skis and large powerboats, we found. Secluded bays are of no interest to them, so found our preferred snorkelling spot, quiet and put your mind at rest. undisturbed. With snorkel and fins on, I slipped Once my fingertips resembled prunes, it was into the cool water, a welcome change from the 35 time to head back into shore again. My underwater degrees temperature on the boat. adventure was over, for now at least. It’s amazing to discover the extensive marine life I don’t think I will ever get bored of what Oman so close to you as you dip below the surface. So many has to offer, above and below the surface. Every different types of coloured reef fish were whizzing time there is something new and exciting to see. past me and didn’t seem to be particularly fazed by
Fact Box
MAY 01 - 07 / ISSUE 268
041