Trip to the Coast: snorkeling at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

Ali is a master boatman

What a great day with my grand-children!

Everyone is geared up and ready to go!

Feisal stayed in the water with the kids and taught them about snorkeling, showing them sea turtles, etc.

The kids didn't stay near the boat very long, as the coral reef and the fish were several yards away.

Just look at that beautiful water, emerald green!

The kids went out twice, both times for about 45 minutes. Afterwards, they were tuckered out!

We had an absolutely wonderful day out on the Indian Ocean!

Trip to the Coast: Wasini Island - spotting dolphins!

Everyone was keen to spot a dolphin; we were fortunate to see several jumping out of the water.

They're quick, making it hard to get photos. But here's one Naomi got.

Just as we finished viewing the dolphins, a squall came up with wind and cold rain.

As Feisal surveyed the situation, we all grabbed anything to stay warm and dry.

After a few minutes, the storm was over and the sun came out again.

Fascinating small islands, on our way to the coral reef

Trip to the Coast: Wasini Island's boardwalk, a fishing expedition, and our banda

Naomi and the kids enjoyed a stroll on the boardwalk through the coral and mangrove garden

The boardwalk proved to be a bit of a challenge,
as it was currently undergoing repair.

While the others were out on the boardwalk, I chatted with these girls.

Heading out on a fishing trip!

Our banda (or cottage) had an amazing design, with partially open walls covered in mosquito netting. 

The girls shared this beautiful Swahili-style bed

Throughout their time in Kenya - wherever we were - the kids always found cats or dogs to enjoy

Trip to the Coast: Wasini Island's boats, monkeys, and fresh crab for dinner

Wasini Island, near Kenya's border with Tanzania, is quite a fascinating place. Approximately four miles long and two miles wide, about 2,000 people live there in two villages. There are no cars or roads; no electricity or fresh ground water; and no crime or police. The island is an outcropping of fossilized coral. The culture is that of the Swahili people and is very laid back. People earn their living mostly by fishing and a bit through tourism.

Tony heads out to the Blue Whale, our mode of transportation for the three days we were on the island.

Wasini village, as seen from our boat

A moored dinghy, owned by our hosts

We were always on the alert for Sykes monkeys, who were ready to steal any food they could find.

Our meals were absolutely delicious!

Yummy freshly-caught crab!

Joe typically hung out at the dining room area, hoping to snatch a piece of fruit or anything else he could get his hands on.