This will be a short post after a very long day. As usual, we started with coffee and a simple breakfast—fresh fruit for Liana, pancakes for me. Then it was straight to the water for diving.
We were excited to put Michael’s advice from the day before into practice. The dives themselves were beautiful, even if the photographic opportunities proved a bit elusive. On the first dive we spotted a large turtle, but it stayed just out of ideal camera range. Later, a magnificent ray rested motionless on the sand—another breathtaking moment, though not quite the perfect shot.
Sometimes the camera has to take a backseat so you can simply be present and soak in the wonder of it all.
Still, I did capture a few decent photos, and I can already feel Michael’s tips making a real difference. Progress, one dive at a time.
Once again, try to watch Liana’s video in 4K or at least HD and remember that you can enlarge any of the photos by clicking on them.
I’d been contemplating a long open-water swim along the Pemba coast ever since we booked this trip—and today was the day.
The original plan was to swim from Afro Divers to The Aiyana, roughly 4.5 km along Pemba’s stunning northern coast. But I misjudged the tide and currents. Instead of an easy glide, I spent the entire swim battling a relentless head current. I eventually called it quits about 500 m short, finishing at Pemba Paradise—exhausted but satisfied.
The combination of fighting the current and the almost absurdly warm 31°C sea temperature turned what should have been a relaxing cruise into a proper test of endurance. My arms felt like lead by the end, yet there was something rewarding about pushing through in such a beautiful setting.
The combination of exhaustion from the day’s activities and suddenly slow internet connection called for an early night for me, although Liana remained up till late to finish her video.
Etienne's Camera 