Belize Whale Sharks

Description:

This program introduces participants to whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea. In the company of an Oceanic Society naturalist, we will search for whale sharks that congregate off Belize's coast annually to feed on fish spawn (masses of fish eggs.) Whale sharks are generally found within 20 feet of water surface, and we will observe them from the water's surface snorkeling. Generally considered docile and harmless, they filter feed on plankton and small fish, as do

the great whales. Observing these giants underwater is likely to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Proper protocols will be followed to ensure that our activities do not negatively impact the whale sharks.

We are based at at Glover's Atoll, a United Nations  World Heritage Site, staying  at an intimate, family-run resort accommodating a maximum of 30 snorkelers and divers. Charming and rustic, each cabana includes a private bathroom, hot and cold water, and  air conditioning. 

Weather dependant, three whale shark trips to Gladden Spit are scheduled.  We will also  explore Glovers Atoll and snorkel along the fringing reef studded with hard and soft corals. The warm shallow waters of the reef permit snorkelers easy access to an extraordinary underwater paradise. Along the outer barrier reef, we should see brilliant  rich corals, and colorful tropical fish.

Scuba divers  join the  dive boat for superb diving along the atoll's back reef.  Divers can expect 5.5  days of diving at 2 dives per day, including the whale shark site.  Only advanced divers should participate in the Gladden Spit Whale Shark diving excursions. 

All snorkeling and whale shark excursions are by private boat. This adventure is for the hardy individual, experienced with open ocean snorkeling. Boat trips to the whale shark site are one and a half hours in duration. The site is outside the barrier reef in the deep open ocean.

Itinerary:

Day 1 U.S./Belize City/Dangriga/Glovers Atoll.   Arrive Belize City International Airport and connect with domestic group flight to Dangriga. Welcome dinner. Next 6 nights at our comfortable beachfront cabanas.

Day 2-7:  Glovers Atoll and Gladden Spit.   Check-out snorkel session . Snorkeling sites are chosen for shallow water and easy access to the undersea world: brilliant sponges, rich corals, colorful tropical fish. Three Excursions to Gladden Spit Whale Shark Reserve are included.  

Day 8: Glovers Atoll/Dangriga/Belize City Early morning return to Belize City for your flight to the U.S. or continuing travel.

Optional Extensions: