We spent most of out time diving, snorkeling, & hanging out with Papa John. We experienced a new type of diving as we used our friend's hooka rig which is an air compressor that floats on the surface with 3 lines down allowing 3 divers to go down to about 60' without all the cumbersome dive gear we have almost gotten used to. We had a great time as we watched our friend Ben feed oyster meat to a hungry moray eel. We also swam with 5 majestic spotted eagle rays with a wingspan of about 10'. They were gliding along as a group playing follow the leader only feet from us. We also enjoyed the upclose view of a lively coral garden. Over the course of our stay, we also came across a big octopus, a sting ray, a sea turtle, starfish & sharks (we are sorry to not have an underwater camera to capture it all).

While in Suwarrow, Bob tured 40!! (Thanks to all who sent nice birthday wishes). Our friends on Waking Dream organized a great surprise scavenger hunt that culminated in a beach barbeque & bonfire. The scavenger hunt took Bob looking for clues all day long starting on the boat then on the island and then underwater to locate the "Spirits of Davy Jones" - a bottle of rum hidden among the corral heads. As the theme was pirates, Bob was provided with an eye patch & bandana headpiece that he wore all day. Papa John & Baker (the caretakers) surprised Bob that evening with additional adornments as they gave him head wreath that they had crafted of local fern & roses (!) as well as a mother of pearl necklace & floral sarong that they fashioned around his waist. The other cruisers participated in the potluck on the beach including 2 chocolate cakes. I am sure it was a birthday that he won't forget.