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DAY 1 : Loch Mharaig
At 8.30am the scuba divers were finishing breakfasts and preparing for their day . We were a group with diverse abilities and qualifications , including three closed circuit rebreather divers and a couple of instructors . In the team were two experienced divers , two boat drivers , two trainee Ocean Divers , two Sport Divers and me the snorkeller . Steve asked if I knew about the North Harris Snorkel Trail , and looking at the Scottish Wildlife Trust website , I was intrigued to discover six snorkelling locations , the first being located in the area we were staying .
On the first snorkel trail in Mharaig Bay there was a fair bit of marine life . I was surprised at how large the jelly fish were , and I could see crabs and hermit crabs . I enjoyed gently finning along to see if I could get some good photos and video . My GoPro has no viewfinder , so I only find out in the editing what was usable . For me this is a perfect camera for snorkel diving , there are just two buttons and the camera does the rest . I use a selfie stick and I have developed a technique where I can float on my side and put the GoPro back in my suit pocket when not needed . The beauty of snorkelling is that you can stay in the water as long as you like – an hour and fifteen minutes is my average .
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Hushinish
KEY SLIPS SCUBA DIVE
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North Harris |
Aird Asaig |
Omharnig Bay
Rhenigidale
Carragrich Scalpay
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DAY 2 : Port Rhenigidale
After breakfast I headed for the second snorkel trail , with my shore cover , Natalie . Rhenigidale Bay is small but perfect for a shore dive . Natalie was a godsend , as I needed her to help me in and out of my suit . At this site I shot lots of kelp through the thick plankton . As I swam , I tried to make sure I could still see the entry point . When you ’ re in the water it ’ s easy to lose your bearings . During an hour and a half , I explored both sides of the bay , recording another vlog tip for the day .
That evening we had our first group meal . Paul Scott ’ s wife Tara made us a fantastic meal , catering for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians , complete with local fresh shrimps that were delivered to the house . We all helped to prepare the food and set up the tables . Natalie and I got to know the other members more and I spent the evening talking with Paul about one of my favourite subjects - cameras .
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An aerial view of the scenery along Loch Mharaig |