A curious mirage effect

If you look closely, you will notice that the island and the rocks around it look like they are floating slightly above the water level. This optical distortion is created by a thermal gradient across the atmospheric layers.

[Shutterbug]

Yes, it makes it look like a cruise ship.

[Clare Gadsby]

definitely is a bit surreal

[Kate]

The Weather Channel has had a story showing boats floating in air. It ,must be a similar effect.

[Granagringa]

Ah, so that's it...thanks for the explanation. It's so ethereal looking.