Relics of the Sea

3 days ago

Why do I this to myself? I thought as I entered the water walking backwards with the flippers on. This was the second time in the trip that I found myself swimming unknown waters. If you’ve read my previous post in which I dove into the sea from a boat for some snorkeling kicks, then you know that I’m not really much of a swimmer. But having traveled miles to warm tropical seas with an underwater camera, I kind of felt committed to jump again and look for the great beasts that lurked in their depths.

In addition to my camera (safely tucked in my short’s waistband), I also held a heavy underwater jet machine in my hands that would, in theory, propel me across the water smoothly, so I could more efficiently and effectively search the area for the elusive creatures.

When the water reached about chest level, I squeezed the "trigger" on the unit. The $1000+ machine came to life and started getting away from me. I gripped it tightly and pulled back, forgetting to release the propulsion trigger. This motion of pulling back while still pressing the acceleration button, caused my body to go prone and get dragged across the water like a wet rag.

Why can’t things be easy?

I let go of the propulsion button and then found myself floating with the machine before me. I squeezed the trigger again, and this time, I pushed the unit underwater, leveled it near my waist, and let myself glide forward with its propelling force. I tilted and swerved and swallowed salty water but held on. I also had the snorkeling gear to contend with but at least it was good quality, so it was strapped nicely tight to my face.

All of this made me quickly realize that before I could properly search the area, I would have to a) avoid drowning, b) learn how to use the jet machine, and c) deftly take pictures with the camera attached to and tucked down my shorts.

While instinct might tell you to swim with the jet machine like Superman, arms extended, this is not the right technique when snorkeling. You need to submerge the unit underwater, stabilize it, and let it pull you forward. Easier said than done for a novice because the contraption sometimes pulled me underwater, so I had to use all my physical and mental strength to stabilize it, hold it at a consistent angle, and keep myself from freaking out.

Time was ticking.

When I finally felt comfortable navigating with the jet, I focused on the search, and it wasn't long before I found the first signs of life. So, I reached down my swimming trunks, grabbed the camera, and began shooting wildly.

I could see beautiful tropical fishes swimming around lazily and slippery. The water was not as clear as my previous dive in another place. The sunlight barely penetrated the turbid medium.

I saw forms down there, shadows, shapes at the bottom, unknown relics in a ghostly realm.

I searched all around and saw no signs of the creature.

Please excuse the quality of the images. It was a tricky situation with all the gear, and I didn't have much experience with the underwater settings. I usually like to experiments with different camera settings, but given the unusual circumstances, that was not possible.

I spent a good amount of time circling the area where said beast was supposed to hang out. I jetted here and there, marveling at the underwater creatures that swam near the bottom, flashing in the sunlight, glistening colours, but the fabled beast was nowhere to be found.

My snorkeling companions were already leaving the water after nearly half an hour. I remained behind a little longer, not willing to give up my search. I was jetting in a wide arc, ready to end my search and return to shore, when to my thrilling surprise, I finally saw it!

After orienting myself, I turned off the jet so as not to disturb the turtle and propelled myself with my flippers to swim above it.

It was swimming around the bottom, likely searching for food. At this point I was already used to the machine, but I did not turn it on while I was swimming above the creature. I saw it turn up and begin swimming up to the surface, so I moved away to give it some space.

How magnificent! I thought as it reached the surface for air.

It did not seem disturbed by my presence. It poked its head out of the water then swiftly dove underwater again and continued its journey. This experience was unique, and I felt blessed to have experienced such an encounter with this mysterious dweller of the sea.