Our arrival early morning was met with rather gloomy skies and low hanging clouds, however the weather did clear later on.
Unfortunately my son wasn't feeling the best and my darling husband decided to stay aboard with him so I could go ashore to meet up with the tour guide I had arranged prior to leaving Brisbane. I had no way to contact them and Champagne beach is a tender port.
Fortunately I made it ashore and met with Ednah, who had organised a driver for myself and two other passengers. I think we were the last or second last group to leave for the day.
The tour was to the Riri blue hole, about 40 mins drive from the beach.
This blue hole (there are others on the island) is very beautiful. The water is freezing.
I did actually attempt the rope swing out into the water. We spent about an hour at the hole before heading back to the beach area.
View of the Pacific Aria driving back down the steep road from the Riri blue hole.
View of beach from the jetty.
Tender boat jetty.
View from the jetty
Champagne beach bar.
Beach cricket
Markets
More markets.
There is no view of the ship from the beach as the anchorage is around the corner. I was lucky to make it ashore as the sea became too rough later on and the captain stopped the tender service. There were a few disappointed passengers unable to make it ashore.
I'd definetely like to return to Champagne beach and have some more time relaxing on the beach. I would also recommend a tour with Santo Irie tours.
