Scuba diving, Belize

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Charles Darwin referred to the Belize Barrier Reef in 1842, in his study of the origin and evolution of coral reefs. Since then it has become renowned as the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. Nearly 260km long, it runs from the northern border of the country, where it is only about 1km offshore, south to the Sapodilla Cayes.

Since I didn't see any possibility of diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, I figured this would be the next best thing.

I did two dives when we were on Caye Caulker, and I did three dives including one night dive from Ambergris, and then did another two dives when we were on Placencia

Equipment: You can rent all your equipment, but it is best to bring your own mask and snorkel so that you can be sure it fits. You should also take sun protection and water.

MEXICO ROCKS SNORKELING
Mexico Rocks is located about seven miles north of San Pedro Town. The depth averages about 12 ft., and has huge coral boulders of all sorts.
There are diving and snorkeling tours to this area of the barrier reef.

Actually an ocean sinkhole, it measures 1000 feet across and plunges 480 feet down.
The Blue hole is one of Belizes' natural wonders.
The Blue Hole is not easy to reach and it is a very bumpy boat ride out there and back.
Most people go out there to dive but you can also snorkel.

Scuba diving in Belize is some of the best in the world. San Pedro on the Ambergris Caye is the main destination, but don't forget to check out Caye Caulker as well. The rooms and diving are cheaper here and less people.

Equipment: I suggest you bring along your own personal gear, ie, mask, fins, regulator etc. Wet suits are not needed since the water temps are usually in the 80's.

Bug juice is a sometimes needed piece of gear as well, especially in the summer monthes.

As else where, the prices really drop in the summer monthes. Since the commercial fishing season is closed, the locals call it the "***ing season".

I've only dove with one operator in Caye Caulker, Frenchies. It is the oldest locally owned dive shop, and has been around for twelve + years. Run by Abel (a local and instructor) and his wife.

I've also had friends dive/get certified at this dive center. Although it may not look like much, they are very good and very thorough. Alberto is a very patient instructor, knows the area like the back of his hand and is a quite a hoot. Abel is also very good but more reserved.

For tips on choosing a good dive shop to get certified with see my: How to choose a good dive shop tip from my Honduras page.

Good people, knowledgeable, thorough, safety conscious, fun... 5 Stars!