Every day is an adventure here at Goin’ Off Safaris, and Tuesday was definitely no exception as I jumped aboard the Adventure Lady bright and early. By 8am we were steaming out of the Port Lincoln Marina on the way to the crystal clear waters surrounding Hopkin’s Island.
After about 1.5 hours and thorough commentary of Port Lincoln’s history, we arrived at Hopkin’s Island- home to around 50-60 Australian Sea Lions. It seemed as though our sudden appearance had injected life into the colony as they made their way off the beach and out into the water.
As we raced to don our wetsuits, dozens of sea lions swam around the back of the boat, waiting for us to join them! Swimming, splashing and somersaulting clumsily through the water, we were no competition. Their speed and agility in the water was amazing!
We were having so much fun, in the end our guides almost had to drag us out of the water- no one wanted to leave!
Our journey back towards Port Lincoln included a short stop in Memory Cove, the site where Matthew Flinders laid a plaque in memory of his crewmen lost exploring the cove. As we stood staring in awe at the stunning beach, a pair of dolphins cruised lazily by- posing an opportunity for the budding photographers aboard!
Further along our voyage we were lucky enough to see a White-bellied Sea Eagle perched up on a cliff in bordering the Port Lincoln National Park. These birds are the second largest bird of prey, only the Wedge tailed Eagle is larger.
Some of us were lucky enough to be participating in the ‘Swim with the Tuna’ tour in the arvo, so shortly after docking we raced off the pontoon for a quick bite to eat at the Marina Hotel- where we were treated with amazing food complemented by an amazing view!
At 1.30pm we jumped back on board the Adventure Lady and made the short trip out to the tuna farm. Our guide gave us a full run-down of the Tuna industry in Port Lincoln, while we got kitted up in our wetsuits.
You really won’t believe how big these fish are until you see them yourself. Throwing a handful of pilchards into the seemingly calm water created a frenzy of movement as the tuna raced each other to be the first to get to the easy feed.
The highlight was definitely once we hit the water and another handful of pilchards were thrown in- huge fish (some up to 70kg!!) were coming at us from every direction. The skill and precision these fish have was evident, as they diverted their path only centimetres from our faces!! Truly an exhilarating experience!
Hand feeding and swimming with these astonishing fish is a world first experience and I highly recommend it be added to everyone’s Bucket List!!
Now as if the day couldn’t get any better, on our journey back into Port Lincoln we were treated to a taste of some fresh sashimi! Generally, I’m not a fan of raw fish- but this was delicious. Dipped in soy sauce and lightly coated in wasabi, the flavours were amazing, and I couldn’t believe how the fish just melts in your mouth!
Such an amazing day, which you can experience for yourself here at Goin’ Off Safaris! Whether it’s a day trip or part of a package, we can tailor the adventure to suit you.
Check out the pics and for more info see our website!!
