Arlie Beach Australia

As our ship approached Arlie Beach, our anchored ship was surrounded by the beauty of greenery and the turquoise, rich blue channels of water. The skies were blue with a few white clouds and the sun was shining brightly. It was a perfect day to fly over the Whitsunday Islands situated in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. All of us were extremely excited to begin the adventure of seeing the Reef  from the skies above. This was the excursion I was looking forward  to the most!

It was about a 20 minute drive to the airfield. We past by the small town that was located along the sea shore. The water was so  blue and clear but no one was swimming. We asked why and the Australians  said there were crocs about and the stingers were very bad. We thought that this was such a shame to have to stay out of  this  beautiful place. 

Once we arrived we were asked to be seated. About 20 minutes later a lady came to tell us that something was wrong with our plane and we would not be able to fly  today.  The hinge on the door was broken 

What disappointment!  As we looked at the pictures on the wall, the disappointed was felt even more.  I'm sure you will also feel our disappointment as you look at the pictures below. 

So sad to miss this beautiful reef.  We all felt it was better to have something break on land than in the sky. We had to settle for visiting  the local market where we could talk with the Australians and see  many of their handicrafts.  This cruise has been great and today's disappointment will not change our feelings. Sun, warmth, great food, wonderful people, and exciting ports will be the memories we will bring home.