18: Strap on some snorkelling gear and see a whole new world

Most of us have never forgotten the first time we glimpsed the silent, majestic world under the sea: streaked with sunlight from the ‘other world’ above; intensely colourful; and teeming with fantastical creatures big and small, all merrily gliding or crawling about their natural habitat with complete disregard for you and your wide, open eyes.

Snorkelling is a fantastic rite of passage for kids to discover more about our marine life, and for adults to rediscover that sense of childlike wonder. All you need is flippers, a snorkel mask and some nice calm water brimming with marine life.

You can try snorkelling at most beaches, but some spectacular locations include the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, Qld; Lord Howe Island, NSW; Ningaloo Marine Park, WA; Ninepin Point Marine Nature Reserve, Tas; Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, WA; Rapid Bay Jetty in the Encounter Marine Park, SA (a safe place to spot the iconic leafy sea dragon!); and Pope’s Eye, Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, Vic.

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