We're still in the middle of a bunch of less than perfect paddling weather, but we just couldn't take it anymore. We took our chances and headed out to explore the far end of Nikko Bay on a couple of cloudy, wet days.

The first day, Christmas Eve, was all about  . . .

exploring caves - some so small we had to paddle on our bellies,

snorkeling for our first time off our boards,

and waiting out passing rainstorms by parking ourselves under an island ledge. (See the raindrops on the surface of the water??)

Two days later we were out again. This time we had to deal with some head winds, but we made it just fine.

We went "out for lunch" and had the best seats in the place!

We explored even further into Nikko Bay. As we were paddling along Shauna spotted a Black Tip Reef Shark swimming just below us. He was about 4 feet long and only a couple of feet underneath us. Sorry, I have no picture to post. I was in such shock, just seeing the shark, that I forgot to pick up my camera and capture the moment for you.

We found some great snorkeling spots,

more caves, and a bunch more places for further exploration in the days to come.

Both days, we headed for home just in time. Not long after we were out of the water, the winds really kicked up and the rain pounded down.