WHAT TO PACK

A Word On Valuables:

We accept no responsibility for the loss of, or damage to, any valuables or equipment whilst on the trip. As with all adventure travel, it is best to leave unnecessary valuables at home or in a safe at your hotel.

Cameras: We ask that you bring only one camera. Any camera may be bashed about on a boat trip and it is easy to get them damp. Although all care is taken, we cannot be responsible for damage to cameras. If bringing an SLR, please keep extra lenses to a minimum. Disposable, waterproof cameras now available produce good results at a cheap cost. A worthwhile consideration - they are convenient and easy. All the whale shark pictures appearing on our site were taken with a disposable camera and later color corrected with Photoshop.

Glasses: People wearing glasses or sunglasses should tie them on with some elastic. This is something you can prepare before you go. Take a spare pair of glasses if you depend on them for survival or comfort. Contacts can be used if you close your eyes at the right times! Otherwise anticipate losing them. *Divers remember contact lenses must be gas permeable.

Jewelry: Please do not bring any jewelry that you do not wish to lose; necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc during the trip.

Gear Checklist:

One Large Duffle Bag or Backpack - As with all adventure travel space is at a premium, so we ask that you limit your baggage to the one main bag, and a net bag for snorkel gear. If you wish to bring your own dive gear please contact our office before your trip.
Daypack - Your dapback should be able to be put inside the Duffle for transport.
Light Hiking Boots or Approach Shoes - Should be broken in and comfortable before leaving for this trip. Sneakers are acceptable with the understanding that we will occasionally be hiking over uneven terrain and that leather provides better protection for your feet.

Other Important Gear:

Several Pairs of wool socks
One pair of shorts
One pair long pants
Swimwear - boardies or swim trunks for men, and a one piece swim suit for women (two pieces are acceptable), when we are aboard the Takashi II and swimming in the open ocean we will be wearing wetsuits for protection and buoyancy. If you have experience in the open ocean (not just the beach) and wish to bring a rashie to wear instead of the wetsuit, that is fine.
A good waterproof/windproof nylon, or Gore-Tex jacket* (Gore-Tex is better)
Several T-shirts
Long Sleeve Shirt or Thermal Layer
Sunglasses
Sunscreen - both being on the water and the decreased ozone layer over Australia mean that the effect of the sun is much stronger there, SPF 30 or greater is recommended.
Lip protectant or zinc cream
Aspirin, or other headache remedy
Sandals (optional)
Insect repellent (optional, insects are not usually a problem)
Toiletry Kit: Keep it Simple
Underwear
Fleece or Wool Sweater - something for cooler evenings
Pocket Knife (remember to place this in Checked Luggage)
One Liter Water Bottle
Any additional casual clothes that you have room for.
Money for Lunch on Day Two, Alcohol, and Souvenirs.