Exploring Emirates - April 9

As the days warm up, the cool waters of the sea beckon us. Driving to Khorfakkan in a Dodge Durango, we discovered the delight of snorkelling near Sharque Island.

Travelling east on the Sharjah-Dhaid-Fujairah highway, we departed from Dubai World Trade Centre and arrived at the Khorfakkan Oceanic Hotel, almost 168 kms later. When we entered the premises, duty manager Brian Joseph kindly attended to our queries about excursions to Sharque Island. He said a boat could be hired to take us there, to enjoy snorkelling and basking in the sun.

Day visitors pay Dhs 45 for adults and Dhs 25 for children below 12 years. This includes the entry fee and use of the pool, changing rooms, lockers, gym, restaurants, private beach and water sports facilities. Rental charges for snorkelling gear is Dhs 30 per hour and the boat ride for four people is charged at Dhs 25 per adult.

Changing into our swim attire, we headed towards the beach and tried on the snorkelling gear.

First came on the life vests, followed by the flippers.

Then we fitted the face mask with a pipe for breathing underwater. Filling a large polythene bag with things we wanted to take with us on board, we waded our way into the water towards the boat. The boatmanhelped us aboard and revved up the engine and we began our journey.