Life In The Field

Hannah Milde

A Day in Paradise!!

Friday morning at the GVI base in Mahahual, Mexico. I awake to a gorgeous sunrise glinting off the calm waters, perfect dive conditions. After a half hour of bustle as each group completed its duties, we sat down to pancakes for breakfast, under the palapa with a refreshing breeze. I was on the first dive so I headed off to kit up. I had Paul as my captain which meant we had to be on time! Not a problem as my group was keen to get out, it was fun dive day, which meant no slates, tapes or poles to carry. It felt like I’d forgotten something!! We were soon approaching Krusty’s Cove, time to kit up as we are given the captains briefing. I’d heard it so many times before, I could probably have given it myself!

The dive was superb, lots of juvenile French Angelfish, Dusky Damsels and the odd lobster. However, the best was yet to come. Suddenly appearing on the safety-stop – two manatees! They swam right up to us, within touching distance, and stayed for the whole stop! When it was time to surface we quickly handed Paul our gear and went for a snorkel. The manatees must have stayed with us for at least 15 minutes. Amazing.

When we got back to base we recounted the adventure to the others who were very jealous. They had also had a superb dive. It was turning out to be a great Friday and we still had a lot to look forward to in the afternoon and evening. After a lunch of healthy pasta and veg, we were put into teams by our elected “Social Secretaries” and prepared for the ‘Beach Olympics’: A series of beach games including our very own Chuk-a-nut, a 3-legged race and the big finale - the mask, snorkel and fin relay. We had so much fun, everyone joining in and giving it our all. The winning team received their awards to a standing ovation. That evening we remained at base and had a slap up feast from the BBQ with a couple of beers. We stayed sat round the fire singing and dancing all night. What a great way to end a day in paradise.

Hannah Milde