Manta Ray, Karang Makassar - Indonesia Power and grace - it is the only way to describe the ghost-like passage of a reef manta. While not as large as its gigantic cousin, the oceanic manta (with a 28 foot wingspan), these smaller reef mantas (18 foot wingspan) seem equally majestic as they glide past coral heads - their mouths open wide, flying into the current, looking right at you as they pass - they look right into your mask.

The Sinking Sun - Indonesia In the evening we climbed the hill to the top of Pungo Island, or 'Pearl Island' and watched the sun set over distant islands. On the opposite side of this tiny island is the pearl farm, where men walk the white sand beach 24 hours a day, keeping watchful eyes on the labyrinth of nets and strings and buoys that lie just offshore.

Close to Home, Komodo Island - Indonesia Colorful clown anemonefish pay close attention to my passage, and particularly to their reflection in the giant dome of glass that protects my camera lans.