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The waters off the shores of Belize are home to one of the largest reef formations in the Northern Hemisphere. Belize's extensive coral reefs are second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. The amazing and vibrant coral as well as its diverse aquatic residents form an incredible underwater world just waiting to be explored by curious snorkelers and divers. As one of the most pristine dive destinations in the world, vacationers may find exploring the aquamarine waters of Belize an extremely worthwhile experience. Below the SurfaceThe tropical waters of Belize remain at about 80 degrees Fahrenheit almost year-round, and the ocean waves are calm and mild because the reefs form a protective barrier around the island. The visibility in the crystalline waters of Belize is at least 50 feet or greater and often is 100 feet or more during the drier months of the year, which are from December to April. Sometimes, during the rainy season, storms can stir up the debris and sand from the ocean floor clouding the waters for a short period of time. But for the most part, the conditions underwater are great for snorkeling and diving any time of year. If you're looking for a deal on your aquatic adventures, visit Belize's dive shops during the wetter months because they will often negotiate cheaper rates. The ocean current outside the protective area of the barrier reef flows in a northernly direction, creating a counter current because the waters between the coast and the reefs of Belize flow south. Breaks in the reef structure restrict the flow of the ocean waters, creating the ideal habitat for a number of large tropical fish and coral. Belize is world-renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, and there are several different types of reefs offshore. The underwater world of Belize is packed with a multitude of marine life, which feature a stunning array of colorful sea animals including crabs, coral, and fish of all shapes, sizes, and colors. This underwater network is one of the richest ecosystems in the world, full of rare and exotic sea specimens. You can get a good look at these amazing underwater structures and wildlife with a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion. Amazing Atolls and ReefsThe reefs edging Belize's shores run approximately 174 miles parallel to the coast under only about a few feet of water. These far-stretching corals run as far as the Yucatan Peninsula all the way to the tip of Guatemala. Combined, all three of Belize's reefs are about 347 miles. As you head for more open waters, the steep sea walls drop off hundreds of feet into the depths of the ocean. Here is where some of the best diving is located. Various types of coral are found under the waters of Belize and include fringing reefs, patch reefs, faroe, barrier reefs, and coral atolls. The reefs that are located in the waters closer to the mainland are called fringing reefs. Belize's only fringing reef is at Rocky Point on Ambergris Caye's north end. The fringing reefs at Rocky Point rise out of the water, so you can actually walk thorough coral skeletons scattering the shoreline. Patch reefs range from small clumps to gigantic reef masses. These types of reefs can be found throughout the coastline but are more prevalent in southern waters. Faroes, or shelf atolls, are ring-shaped reefs or angular atolls located on the continental shelf. Faroes have steep sides that surround a central lagoon. Belize's best example of a faroe is Laughing Bird Caye. The barrier reef necklaces Mexico in the North all the way to the Sapodilla Cayes in the South. This wall of reef comes to a steep slope and drops off vertically into the depths of the ocean. Finally, Belize has three coral atolls, which are considered by some to be the best formations of their kind in the Caribbean Sea. The three atolls are called Turneffe Islands, which is the largest; Lighthouse Reef, the smallest of the atolls; and Glover's Reef. A variety of Caribbean coral live among Belize's reefs. Brain coral, elkhorn, lettuce, and star coral, as well as sea fans, black coral trees, ledges, caves, and many more samples of impressive marine life dwell throughout the reefs just waiting to be explored by snorkelers and divers. Scuba Diving SpotsMost reef diving is done off of Belize's northern shores, with the most popular dive spot being Ambergris Caye, which has reefs located only a few hundred yards from the coast. This easy-to-access reef formation offers fantastic diving opportunities, especially during the afternoon hours following brief morning rain showers. The Blue Hole is a dormant volcano that sank, forming a 400-foot-deep cavern, which is now a popular dive spot among scuba divers. The Blue Hole cavern is full of stalactite. It starts at about 90 feet below the surface. This volcanic shaft opens into a network of elaborate caves, which were formed by underground rivers. Many explorers, including Jacques Cousteau, have visited the caverns to investigate their depths. Local lore even says a sea monster dwells in the depths of the caves. SnorkelingVacationers who want to explore Belize's aquatic realm in a more casual way than scuba diving may enjoy a snorkeling trip. There are many easy-to-reach reefs located in shallow waters near the shores, so you can experience all of the magical aquatic sites Belize has to offer without going too far offshore. You don't have to have an oxygen tank to enjoy the diverse waters of Belize. Many snorkelers visit Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located at the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, to get a closer glimpse of aquatic animals such as sharks, eels, rays, and manatees who live within the protection of the marine reserve. Charter companies, dive shops, and other places for scuba and snorkeling equipment rental can be found throughout Belize and on some of the islets in the cayes. Diving and Snorkeling EquipmentBefore heading out to sea, you'll need the proper equipment for your scuba diving or snorkeling trip. Several dive shops as well as hotels and resorts can provide you with all the equipment you need for your underwater explorations. Here are some dive shops located in Belize:
Belize's cayes, atolls, and colossal coral reefs are amazing spectacles. You will be able to get up close to amazing aquatic wonders by adding a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure to your agenda while visiting Belize. |
