Bundegi Sanctuary Zone Kayak Trail, Ningaloo Marine Park (Top trail)

MOORINGS: There are two KAYAK ONLY moorings within the Bundegi Sanctuary Sanctuary Zone.  They are easily identifed by their blue colouring and white labels.

• Kayak 1 – Nook and Crannies: 21° 51.751'S, 114° 09.613'E
• Kayak 2 – The Cove: 21° 51.536'S, 114° 09.739'E

ROUTE: A 3.5km (about one hour) paddle south south-west along the inside of the Bundegi reef will take you to the two kayak moorings within the Bundegi Sanctuary Zone. Snorkel the sites and return north back along the coast to the boat ramp. These sites may be attempted individually or in any combination. The line on the map is for illustration purposes only. The actual route and duration are dependent on the number of sites visited, based on your own abilities. Once at the site, assess the currents prior to entry − it is recommended to snorkel into the current at the beginning of your snorkel to enable an easy return to the mooring.

SITE INFORMATION: Snorkelling at high tide only is recommended. Site depth ranges from 1.5 to 3 metres. In spring and summer 2011−12, the Bundegi reef experienced a significant coral bleaching event. It was estimated as little as one to six per cent of corals remained alive at the end of eight months of sustained high water temperatures, which rose up to 5°C above normal. Two years later, in 2013, there had been some limited recovery of corals in patches, while other sites remain as coral rubble. Although dead, the remaining coral structure still provides habitat for a vast array of marine life including turtles, groper, large schools of drummer, reef sharks, the occasional manta ray, and many juvenile species from tiny blue green Chromis to small butterfly and angel fish. The Bundegi reef provides an excellent example of the devastating effects high water temperatures can have on coral reefs, and the patchy and slow nature of recovery.