The Magical Kimberley Coast Part 8 - A wonderful pool then out in the ocean

Goodness - it is just over two weeks since my last post!  Where has all that time gone? Well, I have had just so many commitments . . . I must try to cut them down, if even only a little.

Anyhow, our next memorable moment after seeing the iron mine was visiting a swimming hole along Crocodile Creek. Now that name is enough to put you off swimming there altogether, but apparently the local miners discovered this delightful freshwater pool up on the rocky cliff, and constructed a steel ladder to reach it. So while we had to scurry off the XPlorer straight onto rocks to ensure we were safe from crocodiles, and then had to climb up to the pool, many of our passengers then spend a wonderful time in the cool, clear water. Some scrambled further up the rocky cliffs to take photos of everyone from above, and to see a better view of the area. The colour of the water along the creek itself was spectacular, and the rocks were rich reds and browns, as you will see in the photos.   

The next morning we saw another great sunrise and cruised by and even anchored for a while near the Lacapade Islands. For once we saw long, sandy, flat shores instead of rocky cliffs and escarpments. The most incredible flocks of seabirds flew overhead.  We were told these were mostly brown boobies. They would drift on the air currents then dive into the sea for fish. It was a real treat to see them, because for most of the trip you were very lucky to spot birds because they were so well camouflaged amongst the trees.  

We were now out in the open ocean, which was far less calm than the more protected seas between the island and the coastline. As we searched for whales, I am afraid I felt very seasick over the day, despite taking medication. I survived on dry ginger ale and bland dry biscuits. 

That evening, however we had a wonderful cocktail party on the top deck, followed by a farewell dinner. We were just about at Broome. The sunset was spectacular.  

Starting the trek up to the pool.

Looking back at Crocodile Creek - I think the rope was used to tie up the miners' boats.

The water in Crocodile Creek really was this colour!

The pool.

Past visitors had hung various things from one of the trees. 

Clear water cascading from the pool down into Crocodile Creek.

Looking through the clear water to the colourful rocks below was like seeing an amazing work of art! 

The start of sunrise early the next morning. I was already feeling somewhat queasy.

The sand at the distance it actually was.

I used a zoom as best I could to show the shoreline and the birds. The trouble was that e were travelling at quite a speed past there.

The first sign of civilisation in many days - the outskirts of Broome.