On the morning of April 1, 2015, the guests aboard the National Geographic Orion awoke to a sunny, tropical scene. Off the starboard side of the ship it was easy to see—we had arrived at Paradise Island, within the Bazaruto Archipelago.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is comprised of five islands, Paradise Island being the smallest. Though today the infrastructure is in shambles, this small bit of land used to be a very popular honeymooner’s getaway location in the 1960’s. Though the resort itself has fallen out, the surrounding waters are still very active and full of life. This island is home to a beautiful and productive coral reef system, which provides a foundation for many marine species including giant clams, bull sharks, and the ever elusive dugong.
Dugongs are a marine mammal, with the manatee representing the closest living relative. If still surviving, the now extinct Steller’s sea cow would share an order with this now monotypic animal. Dugongs are unique in that they are the only strictly marine herbivorous mammal; as manatees are reliant on freshwater springs ecologically. They have a wide range of habitation, though populations range from a peak of 40,000 individuals recorded throughout Australia to a low count of 300 here in Mozambique.
The morning began, as any should, with options. Beachcombers clambered into Zodiacs to head one way, while intrepid adventure seekers loaded into expedition craft to head towards the potentially dugong—rich waters on the north side of the island. With the help of an ultralight bi-plane, animal spotters from the sky searched for marine life underwater, directing our Zodiacs with the help of Andrea Marshall, who communicated from the inflatable craft. Though in the end the Dugong largely earned its reputation of remaining shy and uninterested in humans, one group of guests were able to briefly see an individual come to the surface for a quick gulp of air, before heading down a deep wall into the dark blue.
Once back on the ship, after a morning of snorkeling, sand, and sea, a delectable barbeque including gourmet cheeseburgers awaited the travelers. As everyone chatted about their exciting morning and shared stories from many various activities, the National Geographic Orion lifted her anchor and set sail for Madagascar, to continue exploration.
