Our group of 15 enthusiastic travelers all agreed that Wakatobi earns a 10 out of 10 when it comes to comfortable accommodations, excellent food and fantastic reefs. None of us wanted to leave after seven happy days of exploring the reefs. Our excursions to the outer reefs by boat were accompanied by 3 excellent snorkel guides who were experts are finding even the most cryptic of critters. Equally fabulous was the reef directly in front of the resort that we could access at any time.
Every time we jumped into the water it was a delight to the senses. Healthy hard and soft coral walls mesmerized us with an explosion of colors. At times the volume of fish below us made it hard to decipher the reef below. Schools of goat, trigger, butterfly, parrot and surgeon fish were constant companions. Turtles, barracudas,boxfish, lionfish, blue spotted rays and puffers were often seen. Colorful anthias reminded me of confetti thrown across the reef.
We felt fortunate to see a Cuttlefish laying her eggs in Coral, and an anemone full of freshly laid eggs fiercely guarded by its Clarks anemonefish parent.
Christmastime at Wakatobi was extra special. We were treated to champagne and an elegant dinner on Christmas eve and chocolate treats in our room on the 25th. This was my favorite Christmas ever. Three glorious snorkel excursions in the day and then under a full moon, an extraordinary night snorkel. One advantage of having a fabulous house reef was that we could slip into the ocean at sunset and discover the metamorphosis of marine life from day to night.
A whole new cast of characters revealed themselves. Lobsters came out of the crevasses to wander the ocean floor, twin spotted lion fish, scorpionfish, crocodilefish appeared. The octopi that seem so shy by day moved boldly in search of prey.
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- Scorpion Fish-night snorkel
The food paralleled the snorkeling. Creative and healthy gourmet meals are served buffet style. We enjoyed the variety and fresh salads. It’s a good thing we spent so much time snorkeling to balance out the sinfully delicious desserts that were too tempting to pass up at lunch and dinner.
I love the atmosphere at Wakatobi. The entire staff is genuinely helpful and welcoming. Within hours of our arrival the staff called us by name and assisted us in any way they could.
I felt like a kid again, padding barefoot for a week over the soft sand paths-without a care in the world except for making sure I was ready for the next snorkel excursion.
Wakatobi is a snorkeler’s paradise. The only consolation in leaving was the knowledge that I’ll be returning next year. October 17-24, 2016 is my next Wakatobi snorkel trip and I can hardly wait. If you can’t join my group I can arrange an individual stay for you at Wakatobi anytime!
time to relax
Best Fishes,
Wendy Simon Jan 2015