Dive into Belize
Posted by Emma Torry on March 26, 2009 at 02:15 PM
By Connie Motz
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the barrier reef in Belize offers some of the world's best scuba diving. Belize's coral reef is the largest in the Caribbean (second largest in the world), following the coastline for 185 miles.
Divers rave about the 150 foot visibility and the calm 75 degree waters. With several hundred cays (islands) to choose from, divers have their choice of premier diving sites.
One of the top dive sites, The Blue Hole, is a unique, 480ft deep natural wonder spanning almost a quarter of a mile. Inside this circular limestone sinkhole, divers will experience sheer walls, stalactites formations and 200ft visibility. Amazing marine life abounds, including blacktip, tiger and hammerhead sharks. Other popular dive sites include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley in Northern Belize.
No matter where you choose, you'll be swimming with over 500 species of fish and viewing 70 types of hard coral. And if you're not already a certified scuba diver, you can obtain PADI or NAUII certification while in Belize. A supervised resort course offers non-divers an introduction into the sport in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean.
Whether you're looking for wreck diving, night diving or want to explore the canyons and tunnels, scuba diving in Belize has it all. And in case the unexpected happens, a hyperbaric chamber is available 24 hours a day, in tiny San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.
Two-tank dives cost approximately USD 35 but the best deals to be found often, which include diving, accommodation and transfers, start at USD 495 for a 6 day/5 night stay.
International holiday makers and sun seekers can fly non-stop from major cities like Miami, Houston, Los Angles, Atlanta, Houston and Charlotte. Flights to the cays can be booked with Mayan Island Air or Tropic Air. Belize is known as Mother Nature's best kept secret, so don't miss out!
Belize Info
Formerly known as British Honduras, Belize became an independent nation in 1981. With a population of just over 300,000, Belize covers approximately 8,000 square miles.
Passports are required for travel to Belize and entry visas may be required. For more information see the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Belize Travel Resources:
- Travel Belize
- Belize Tourism
- Ramon's Village, San Pedro
Photo Credits: Used with permission of TravelBelize.org
Blue Hole - Image Copyright 2008 - Tony Rath of Tony Rath Photography www.tonyrath.com.
Scuba Diving - Image Copyright 2008 - Tony Rath of Tony Rath Photography www.tonyrath.com.
