March 21, 2023
Today we are in Fremantle, Australia. Fremantle is a port city in Western Australia that’s part of the Perth metropolitan area. It’s known for its maritime history, Victorian architecture and remnants from Australia’s days as a British penal colony.
I wanted to explore Perth but the chance to see Australian little penguins was what I really wanted to do. So I headed out to Penguin Island, which is the only place, you can current see these endangered penguins.
The Australian little penguin also called the fairy penguin is a species of penguin that only exists in Australia. They typically grow to between 12 and 13 in tall and on average weigh 3.3 lb. There are also behavioral differences that help differentiate these penguins. Those of the Australian lineage will swim together in a large group after dusk and walk along the shore to reach their nesting sites. Penguin Island population of the little penguin has dropped from 200,000 to only 2,500 in the last 10 years. The conservation center has 7 little penguins that were rescued, healed and are not capable of being returned to the wild so they are used to educate people on the species and help promote conservation. They are so much fun to watch and they have incredible personalities that make you want to take them home plus they are so small they fit in a backpack.
After we spent time with the penguins we headed out in a glass bottom boat to explore the marine reserve. We were blessed to see several pods of dolphins including a few young calves. The woman on the paddleboard with the dolphins swimming around her was having a “best day ever”!!!!
Way to soon, we headed back to shore for a late lunch and then the coach back to Fremantle. We got back to Fremantle with a few hours left before all aboard so I set off on foot to explore the city and came upon a Ferris wheel that I had to ride!!! It provided beautiful views of the harbor and the city! After walking about absorbing the small city I headed back to the ship totally exhausted but so joyful for the incredible day I had experienced. I am so blessed to have these experiences!!!
We are now leaving Australia and headed to Africa, which takes seven days at sea, so no blogs for the next, seven days (unless something interesting happens on ship)! Then I will be in Port Louis, Mauritius and ready for the next adventure.
Love your blog. You’re so adventurous. Love it.
Good morning from a wet and rainy Southern California! The photo of you is wonderful. You look so relaxed and happy! One question – how do you spend your time when you’re at sea for so long? Hugs!