Search term combinations: 1. Yucatan and coral reef 2. Great Mayan Reef 3. Mayan Reef 4. Riviera Maya 5.

Mayan Riviera 6. Mesoamerican reef 7. Mesoamerican Barrier Reef 8. Mesoamerican 9. Belize Reef 10. Belize Barrier Reef All above search terms are valid names for the reef or some part/section of it. Note: The Belize (Barrier) Reef is a section of the larger Mesoamerican (Barrier) Reef.

Coral Reefs | Smithsonian Institution. The Ocean Portal | Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life-ecosystems/coral-reefs The Smithsonians Ocean Portal does not have specific information regarding the Mesoamerican Reef, but does provide limited information on coral in general, including its classification as a living creature and its relationship with a specific type of algae.

WWF - Mesoamerican Reef - The Atlantic Oceans largest coral reef. World Wildlife Fund - Wildlife Conservation, Endangered Species Conservation. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.worldwildlife.org/what/wherewework/mesoamericanreef/index.html Estar, M. B.Great Coral Reef - Mexican Caribbean Vacation Rentals Network - Yucatan Mexico. Mexico Mexican Caribbean Network - Mayan Riviera. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from

http://www.mcvrn.com/coral_reef.html

The Great Coral Reef (Yucatan's Maya Caribbean Coast South) Reef di corallo grande caraibico del maya By Maire B Estar The Great Maya Reef is the largest reef in North America and ranks second in size globally behind the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. Its northern extremity begins off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula at Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. From there it extends 197 miles south, past Cancun and through the coastal waters of the State of Quintana Roo where it passes alongside the Central American countries of Belize and Honduras. It is an ecosystem within itself, with diverse and abundant forms of sea life, and yet, it is part of a greater system of rich coral zones that thrive within the Caribbean Sea. Red Coral: The rocky coasts of the tropical band of the American continent, and the Caribbean Islands are an ideal habitat for the growth of numerous species of hard corals and other encrusting and building organisms. The constant development of these creatures leads to the formation of fringing barriers that come between the coast and the open sea. The coral reefs develop in waters of incredible clarity where a scarce quantity of nutrients exist. If not for the existence of the reefs, the water would be an enormous "blue desert". The reefs extend toward the sea until depth or lack of a rocky base make it impossible for them to grow. The Great Maya Reef is one of these "fringing barriers", as are the numerous coral beds that are readily found near the shoreline. These reefs provide shelter for the majority of fish species and crustaceans that inhabit the coastal waters. Their beds are easy to explore, even for those who snorkel, because of the short distance that separates them from the coast.

In the calm waters of a bay, you can traverse from beach to coral reef in a matter of minutes. Enroute to the reef you will pass along scattered blocks of coral, which are thriving communities of diverse sea life in the otherwise barren and transparent waters. The ecosystems with the most abundant forms of life on earth are those ecosystems of the coral reef. While exploring a reef in the Caribbean, you will find that in the areas closest to the surface, where the corals are battered by the waves and affected by the tidal flow there is an abundance of brain coral. These irregular, rounded colonies cover vast areas of the sea bed. Out nearer the open sea, one will find areas of elkhorn aeciospores. They are named this because their branches are flattened like the horns of the American elk. These colonies exist in turbulent areas that are marked by many fragments of hard coral that cover the sea bed. More delicate corals appear as the waters become deeper, about 4-10 meters. These are bush corals with thin, pointed branches. Because of their fragility, these corals don't dominate an area as the brain or elkhorn corals would. Coral Reefs It is these coral reefs that attract millions of visitors to the Caribbean each year. They are home to more than 600 species of fish and almost 100 types of hard coral. Their waters are warm, clear and inviting. As you enjoy their bounty and beauty, it is apparent that they must be protected, along with the life that they foster. The reefs are made of living coral which is very delicate and easily destroyed. Because of this, while diving or snorkeling, please stay at least 3 feet above the coral. Touching it or knocking it with a fin could cause a piece of it to break off, and by keeping at arm's length, you won't disturb the fish. SOURCES: Beauty of the Coral Reefs Angelo Mojetta & Andrea and Antonella Ferrari Chartwell Books, 2000 Laiguana Secrets of the Mexican Caribbean Winter/Spring 1999 Passport-Cancun Fall/Winter 2000

Snorkeling the Yucatan Peninsula: TravelYucatan.com. Yucatan Peninsula Travel Info: TravelYucatan.com. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.travelyucatan.com/div-3.htm

SNORKELING THE YUCATAN PENINSULA INTRODUCTION The Yucatan Peninsula offers snorkelers an abundance of great locations that can meet the demand of experienced divers taking a break and beginners visiting the coral for the first time. If snorkeling is a primary focus of your trip then it pays to know where to go before you even book your hotel. We recommend taking your own equipment as well [mask, snorkel, fins] although there are shops almost everywhere there is good snorkeling selling gear including replacement parts to repair broken fin-straps etc.. All hotels have equipment on hand but our experience is that the masks leak 100% of the time and we question the sanitation of using a snorkel other people have been biting on.

STATES Yucatan Campeche Quintana Roo COASTAL REGIONS Mayan Riviera Costa Maya The Mexican name for the Atlantic coastal region of the Yucatan Peninsula is "Riviera Maya". The English use is either Mayan Riviera or Maya Riviera. It is used all three ways in this web site.

SNORKELING LOCATIONS Isla Mujeres Isla Mujeres is a great place to stay for divers and there are excellent beaches here. The currents can be pretty strong on the south side so snorkeling can be a bit more of a challenging swim than a pleasant snorkel. We ran into a school of barracudas on the south side once, which was extremely exhilarating! Garrafn Park is located on the far east side of the island and is the place to snorkel here. For more info see: Isla Mujeres - Snorkeling & Diving Isla Holbox Isla Holbox does not have any coral reefs and the gulf seabed is basically seaweed, branch coral, and sand/clay. Visibility is 10 - 15 ft. on a good day. People come here to swim and snorkel with Whale Sharks, the world's biggest fish. You need to take a tour to do this. Due to government restrictions; Scuba Diving with the Whale Sharks is prohibited. For more info see: Isla Holbox Swim With Whale Sharks Cancun Cancun is not the place to go for snorkeling. The waves make it too rough and the seabed is sand and dead coral. Great beaches for beach lovers but not good for snorkelers. Mayan Riviera The Mayan Riviera [Riviera Maya] is the place to go if you are looking to snorkel. Primarily, Akumal is the area you want to stay in for the best snorkeling. For more info see: Snorkeling The Mayan Riviera Cozumel Cozumel is a diver's paradise and is known for just this, the world over. Snorkeling on the west side is great but the current can be strong. Best to take tours and go out in a boat to some of the choice locations that the guides know. Here, when the current pushes you along the boat can pick you up. For more info see: Cozumel Snorkeling Costa Maya Snorkeling around Majahual is good but going out on a boat is better. We find the coastline sandy with lots of sea grass. We had the opportunity to bump into a school of dolphins once about 25 miles out. This was amazing.

SNORKELING WITH CHILDREN AND BEGINNERS Probably the best places to take children snorkeling are either Xel-Ha or Yal Ku Lagoon. Xel-Ha provides the snorkeling gear and life jackets must be worn by all. Xel-Ha is an Eco park with excellent food services and numerous lifeguards on duty at all time. We have seen sea turtles, stingrays, sea-horses and LOTS of other marine wildlife snorkeling there. It is a great place to spend the day for all ages. You can take a tour that includes Xel-Ha or you can take a taxi or colectivo to get there. Another interesting thing about Xel-Ha is that Xel-Ha ruins are located a short walk south on the highway from the main entrance to the Eco Park. This ruin site is unique amongst Mayan ruin sites because it has a cenote with a sweat lodge still intact. The principle occupation of the Mayans who once lived there appears to be the harvesting of conch shells to be crushed and burnt to create an ingredient for mortar used in building. When the Maya lived there it is likely that the only trees left standing were there for fruit bearing. During the period that the small city flourished it is conceivable that there was a great demand for their product with the probability that much of it went inland carried on small tributaries that opened up after the rainy season each year. BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO SNORKEL Snorkeling depends largely on wind speed. Wind affects the sea contributing to the wave action. When the waves reach a certain height it is impossible to snorkel. In fact it makes it difficult for divers too, because the boats cannot go out either. It is our opinion [backed up by statistics] that September is the best month to snorkel the Mayan Riviera with the period of July - January to be the best "window" to go, if snorkeling is high on your list of things to do. Wind directions You just never know. One day the waves can be a meter high the next day the water is still. You have to be prepared to snorkel whenever the water is good. You can't assume that the sea will be calm all day because it is calm in the morning. On a sunny day in the summer you will have good light up until 5:00 gradually diminishing to 4:00 at the end of September. If the sea has been very wavy for any length of time [weeks] then visibility will be dramatically reduced due to the amount of sediment in the water.

What makes Cozumel so attractive for diving is that the western side of the island is protected and water conditions are usually great. This makes the island a great place to snorkel as well and there are numerous guides with boats available to take you to some choice locations. Trips run from $20.00 - $50.00 depending on where you go and how long you go out. ACCESSABILITY All coastal property is controlled by the Mexican Federal Government and is open to all people. You are free to snorkel the waters of any beach you wish. The problem is that highway 307 runs around a km away from the coast in some spots and access points are few and far apart. What you will see is a number of resorts and small roads cut into the forest. Some of these roads are private, many are for beaches, restaurants and cabanas. Look for signs indicating beach, diving, fishing and cabanas. We have been told [unofficially] that access to any beach must be given upon request by an individual through a resort property. However resort gate guards have told us that we would have to pay a fee to use their beach. The law does prohibit people from trespassing through private property so technically you must first gain permission to cross someone's property however once on the beach they have no legal authority over you. EQUIPMENT All resorts have snorkel equipment to lend you. It has been our experience however that every mask we have ever borrowed, leaked water to the point of being useless. You can buy equipment on the Riviera in any number of dive shops. Many resorts even sell equipment. Equipment at the dive shops is priced according to the U.S. market so expect to pay U.S. prices for everything. Most shops carry top quality equipment. Some attractions like Xcaret and Xel-Ha provide new snorkels and they have enough masks that you can usually find one that won't leak. They also carry fins and life jackets, which are mandatory. BARRACUDAS While snorkeling you may encounter a 5-ft barracuda. They are ferocious looking creatures with lots of teeth. They are also a very curious fish and may approach you. If you see one it is best to slowly swim away. If he starts following you don't panic, just continue to swim. If he swims right up to you do not make any sudden moves. Hold your ground and gently swim away. Barracudas are attracted to shiny objects and can be found in quite shallow water. They will just sit there in one spot while the water flows past them. You can swim quite close to one and

they will not flinch. Actual barracuda attacks are extremely rare and are attributed mostly to spear fisherman. If you have ever seen the film footage of "Captain Bob Olson" being attacked by a barracuda the footage is rather gruesome. It was also staged for the cameras and was totally faked. SNORKELING TIPS Snorkeling and Rip Currents WATER IN MASK Once a mask has been damaged it will leak. Damaging occurs from masks not being cleaned, sand/debris particles scraping the insides, men's facial stubble and age. Men should shave before snorkeling. You can also create a "seal" by applying Vaseline or silicone grease to your face. You can also buy a mask with a "Purge Valve", which is a small oneway valve that allows water to drain out of the mask. If your mask leaks then it needs replacing. Always clean masks after you have snorkeled. You must clean the sea-salt off the mask. ANKLE WEIGHTS Want to swim faster with less effort? Use diver's ankle weights. Weights pull left leg down providing thrust with minimum effort.

Use buoyancy to raise right leg. Repeat, alternating legs. Using ankle weights reduces the energy needed to swim and can extend your snorkel time by conserving energy. SNORKELING VEST Wear a snorkel vest or shirt. They are made from water resistant neoprene. Not to be confused with Life Vests. Even a T-shirt will work. Wearing a vest/shirt will help you conserve heat and keep your back from getting sun burnt. If you happen to get washed into some coral or rocks it can also protect you. These items can be found at dive shops.

GETTING INTO THE WATER It is best to put your gear on in the water. Don't put it all on and try to walk across the beach and into the water. First look for a safe place to enter the water. Hold your mask/snorkel in one hand and your fins in the other [put hands through straps to hold securely]. Enter the water up to around waist height. Dunk your head into the water to get your hair/face wet. Put your mask/snorkel on. Now, while in the water you can safely wade to put your fins on. WATCH OUT! Never assume that boats, kayaks, sea-doos can see you and know you are there. If a watercraft is headed in your direction keep your eyes on it and warn any other snorkelers in the vicinity. Wave your arms if you have to, to get the drivers attention. Be prepared to take evasive maneuvers if you have to. Most resorts have boating lanes roped off or have the safe swimming/snorkeling section of the water roped off for your safety. Where is the best place to snorkel? There are numerous excellent places to snorkel however the single beach we recommend is the beach along Hotel ElDorado on the Maya Riviera. Due to its proximity to numerous resorts and Cabanas this is a quick place to get to and the beach is almost all coral. It takes 2 days to fully explore this beach.
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. (2007). Playa del Carmen Travel Guide, Mexico. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.aboutplayadelcarmen.com/playadelcarmen/mesoamerican-barrier-reef.asp

Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

Coral Reef

Surpassed only by Australia's Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System - also known as the Great Mayan Reef - is the second largest barrier reef in the world. It runs between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen for hundreds of miles, extending from the southern half of the Yucatan Peninsula to the Bay Islands of Honduras. This ancient reef is predominantly responsible for the civilizations and communities that surfaced along its shores. During the time of the ancient Mayan people, trade routes and passages were created in this area which greatly helped their trade and commerce. Upon the arrival of the Spanish, the reef became the safe haven of pirates and a maritime gateway for the Conquistadors. At the present time, its abundant marine life (which includes a variety of fish species and 500 year old coral formations) is a great enticement for local as well as international tourism, helping to boost the area's economic gains to greater heights. It plays a big part in the protection of coastal landscapes and serves as breeding and feeding grounds for most of its marine life. Any scuba diver, novice or seasoned diver, will be amazed as they explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Its length, the composition of its reef types, and the rich diversity of its corals and related species are the most important factors that contribute to its unique distinction in the Western hemisphere. It is not really just one big single barrier reef but a chain of shallow patch reefs, drop-offs and coral gardens. It is also an abode to an amalgamation of coastal sandbanks, fringing reefs and islets. An estimated number of 100 dive sites, 500 species of fish, and 4 species of sea turtles can be found in its waters together with numerous reef formations, enormous coral walls and shallow plateaus.

Mesoamerican Barrier Reef: MedToGo International. (2007, July 30). MedToGo, Medical tourism Company In Mexico, Owned and Operated by US Physicians . Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.medtogo.com/mesoamerican-barrier-reef-safety.html

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Second only to Australias Great Barrier Reef in size, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef stretches more than 450 miles and is home to a universe of marine life. It is unique, due to its length and composition of reef types, and is home to more than 60 species of coral, 350 mollusks and 500 fish species. Closely linked to coastal wetlands, lagoons, sea grass beds, and mangrove islands, the reef plays a significant role in the stabilization and protection of coastal landscapes and maintenance of coastal water quality and it

serves as breeding and feeding grounds for marine mammals, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates. In addition, the reef is a source of economic life for many of the people living along the Yucatan Peninsulas coast. The Inner Reef The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is divided into three zones: the Inner Reef, Middle Reef, and Outer Reef. At 25 to 35 feet the Inner Reef is a network of patch reefs, spotted with elkhorn coral and formations of boulder brain and plate corals. They provide shelter and function as a nursery for several marine and land species. Here you will find mostly rainbow-colored tropical fish such as parrotfish, butterfly fish, angelfish, balloon fish, sergeant majors, surgeonfish, damsel fish, blue angelfish, tangs, wrasse, jackknife and many others. Though less common, you might also spot sponges, sea urchin, star snakes, fan corals, starfish, crabs, lobsters, snails, turtles and manta rays. At this depth the water is remarkably transparent ideal for underwater exploring. Dividing the Inner Reef from the Middle Reef is a stretch of white sand, where most beginning scuba divers are first introduced to the underwater world. The Middle Reef Spanning several miles and varying in depth from 40 to 50 feet, the Middle Reef is best known for its coral cave and canyon formations. Here elkhorn coral reaches for the surface, like the pinnacles of a mountain range, and wrecked remains of pirate and Spanish colonial ships are transformed into reefs hosting a broad spectrum of marine life. Throughout the Middle Reef you will find all types of tropical coral formations, sponges, schooling fish, barracuda, shark, manta ray, sting ray, snappers, grunts, parrots, and wenchman, in addition to massive sea turtles. And similar to the divide between the Inner and Middle Reefs, there is a stretch of white sand separating the Middle and Outer Reefs.

The Outer Reef Beginning at 60 feet in depth and descending through canyons to 125 feet, the Outer Reef is adorned with magnificent canyons and coral caves in addition to black coral, which begin growing at around 90 feet in depth. In the Outer Reef it is common to spot hawksbill, green and threatened loggerhead turtles as well as bull, nurse reef and hammerhead sharks. Visibility at this depth averages approximately 70 to 90 feet, with little or no current. The Mangrove Nursery Completing the reef ecosystem are the essential contributions of the lagoon and mangroves that provide both a nursery and food source for virtually all reef species at some stage of their

life. Nowhere in the lagoon does the depth exceed 15 feet (5 meters), however far from being the stinky muddy place that many people mistakenly believe, it is a pristine area teeming with life. From fiddler crabs to fish eagles, crocodiles and tree climbing anteaters, pink ibis and white egrets, silver tarpon and small sharks all mingle in the tranquil area among the mangroves. Most boat trips pass through this area on their way to the reef, and it is highly rewarding to spend time wildlife watching as you pass through.

Species of living creatures living in and around the reef The Mesoamerican Reef is unique in that it is considered home for the whale shark and all four species of sea turtle. The reef is also distinctive for being the home of what The World Wildlife Fund has estimated is as many as 1000-1500 manatees. The reef contains more than 500 different species of fish. The most useful, detailed, and obvious source for what species of fish occupy the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is Fish of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

Bloom, E. (2008, December 28). Fish of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Fish of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://mesobarrierreeffish.blogspot.com/

Snorkeling in Mexico - Explore the Belize Barrier Reef. Riviera Maya Mexico - Mexican Holidays. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.riviera-maya-holidays.com/snorkeling-in-mexico.html

Snorkeling in Mexico Explore the Belize Barrier Reef Snorkeling in Mexico is an exciting, action packed activity! Travel through the ocean portal into another world and discover the marine wildlife of the Belize barrier reef...

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest barrier reef system in the world (second only to the great barrier reef Australia). The experience of a Belize snorkel is rapidly becoming one of the most explored attractions in Mexico. The reef is over 250km in length and forms part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system which stretches over 900km in total. The reef consists of a collection of coral reefs which are very popular for diving in Mexico. The reef runs along the coast of the Mayan Riviera. It borders four countries, stretching from Mexico to Belize, Guatemala and Honduras.

You definitely gain a sense of perspective and inspiration when snorkeling in Mexico It seems like a whole new world just waiting to be discovered. The views that you encounter are nothing short of spectacular! Mexico has one of the largest levels of biodiversity in the world. The Belize Barrier Reef is no exception to this, the ecosystem is home to a vast variety of marine life. Large sections of the reef are yet to be fully discovered and explored. That means that over future years the extent of the diversity could still increase considerably. At the present time it is estimated that over 500 species of fish currently inhabit the reef. Over 30 types of soft coral and 70 different types of hard coral have been located there. Divers have also identified around 300 types of mollusk in and around the site. The reef is home to a large proportion of manatees, and a variety of sea-turtles. Since the mid-nineties the reef has been classified as a World Heritage Site. It is important to protect the site because of the sheer natural beauty and advanced level of biodiversity. There are still threats though to the safety of the species that inhabit the reef and the structure of the coral located there. Over recent years a variety of sea-turtles and manatees have required extra protection due to both environmental and man-made dangers. A situation known as Coral Bleaching has also been increasingly common. The exact causes of Coral Bleaching are open to interpretation, it results though in large areas of the Coral Reef deteriorating beyond repair.

Tourism can be a problem to the future of the reef as well, but we can all help. Whilst experiencing the magical event of diving and snorkeling in Mexico, be sure to respect your surroundings and preserve them for many years to come.
History tidbits The reefs have been around since the time of their namesake, the Mayans. Also, during the time of Spanish Conquistadors, pirates used the reefs as safe havens. Many of the remains of Pirate and Spanish shipwrecks have, themselves, become part of the reefs.

Belize Barrier Reef - 7 Wonders of the World. 7 Wonders of the World Seven World Wonders. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://7ww.org/underwater-world/belize-barrier-reef/

Belize Barrier Reef

Background: The Belize Barrier Reef belongs to the 900 kilometer long Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System in the Atlantic-Caribbean region, which stretches from Cancn to Honduras. The Belize Barrier Reef itself is the second largest barrier reef in the world, beaten only by the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia (also one of the seven wonders of the underwater world) and it is home to over known 500 species of reef fish and 86 species of soft and hard corals, although what has been discovered is said by experts to be only a small percentage of what is actually there. This particular section of the Mesoamerican barrier reef is 300 kilometers long, and while it may not house the kind of biodiversity that the Palau Reefs exhibit, the Belize Barrier Reef was described by Charles Darwin as the most remarkable reef in the West Indies. Within this 300 kilometer stretch are over 200 small islands, 3 atolls (rings of coral that surround a lagoon of water) including the well-known Great Blue Hole and also 450 cays (small raised islands of sand above reefs). It is this diversity in structure that allows the tourism industry to thrive at the Belize Barrier Reef.

Formation: The Belize Barrier Reef is a completely natural underwater structure, whose coral is thought to have been formed within the past 500,000 years. While this is relatively young for a barrier reef, the limestone rocks that the Belize Barrier Reef corals have grown upon may be anywhere from 2 to 135 million years old, and the atolls somewhere in between. Of course these dates are so far back into history that its impossible for marine biologists and geologists to give any specific dates. Due largely to the discovery of stalactites in the underwater caves found in the Belize Barrier Reef, geologists have discovered that the Belize Barrier Reef was not created by volcanic activity (as many reefs are) but instead by the most recent glacial period instead. The formation of the Belize Barrier Reef has been entirely natural, although over the past forty years there has been a lot of damage done to the reef and wildlife that lives within. Why it Was Chosen: In 1989 CEDAM International (CEDAM = Conservation, Education, Diving, Awareness and Marine-Research) put together the seven wonders of the underwater world, comprising the structures and regions of the world that they deemed worthy of such a title. Due to the Belize Barrier Reefs unusual structure, great beauty and need for conservation CEDAM added it to their list without question. As well as being one of CEDAMs seven wonders of the underwater world, the Belize Barrier Reef system located in Belize was also named as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in the mid-1990s. This only served to add to the barrier reefs great prestige and there is no sign of this natural, underwater wonder losing any interest from scientists, marine biologists and geographical experts worldwide, not to mention the thousands of tourists that visit each and every year. How Can it Be Seen? At one time, Belize was central to the Mayan people and as a result this central American country is steeped in rich history and culture, as well as the tourism brought to it by the Belize Barrier Reef. As a result Belize is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday both on land and off, as you explore both the barrier reef system and the tropical forests. Travel to the Ambergris Caye for scuba diving and snorkeling excursions, as this island is the closest land to the reef. From here you can also visit the esteemed Great Blue Hole, Shark Ray Alley, Lighthouse Reefs, Mexico Rocks and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Flying to Belize is simple from a number of US airports such as Houston, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta and Charlottesville, although from Europe it is a little harder. The nearest airport to the barrier reef is the Philip S W Goldson International Airport (BZE) around 11 miles away, where you can

catch a taxi to the city center (no tipping). There are also several water taxis and major cruise lines that pass through Belize, so you can visit the nearby regions as well as Belize and its reef.

_______________________________________________________________________ Huber, J., & Huber, J. (Annual 2006). Belize. Best Dives of the Caribbean 3rd ed. , (p.57). Hunter Publishing, Inc. Retrieved May 13, 2011, from General OneFile via Gale: http://find.galegroup.com/gps/infomark.do?&contentSet=IACDocuments&type=retrieve&tabID=T001&prodId=IPS&docId=A152181100&source=gale&userGr oupName=empsu_web&version=1.0 Fascinating and exotic, Belize offers a world of tropical adventure to divers and snorkelers. The Hol Chan Marine Preserve is a small portion of the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere, the Mesoamerican Reef, which extends along the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, the entire coast of Belize and parts of Guatemala and Honduras, second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Also in the reef area are the magnificent Blue Hole, a 1,000-footwide ocean sinkhole, and three beautiful atolls--Lighthouse Reef, the Turneffe Islands and Glovers Reef. Within the reef system are hundreds of uncharted islands. Best Dive & Snorkeling Sites

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef *** Hol Chan Marine Preserve, a five-square-mile reef area off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, is characterized by a natural channel or cut that attracts and shelters huge communities of marine animals. Maximum depth inside the reef is 30 feet, allowing unlimited bottom time. The outside wall starts at 50 feet, then drops to depths greater than 150 feet. Schools of tropicals line the walls, with occasional glimpses of big turtles, green and spotted morays, sixfoot stingrays, eagle rays, spotted dolphins and nurse sharks. A constant flow of seawater through the cut promotes the growth of large barrel and basket sponges, sea fans, and beautiful outcroppings of staghorn and brain corals. Check tide charts before diving on your own; currents can be very strong in the channel at outgoing tides. Diving all along the barrier reef is extraordinary. There are caves, dramatic overhangs, and pinnacles, all with superb marine life, though commercial fishing has taken its toll on the really big grouper, shark and huge turtles that were common place 10 years ago. The subsea terrain is similar throughout the area, with long channels of sand running perpendicular to the overall reef system. These cuts run to seaward allowing a constant change of nutrient-rich sea water to cleanse and feed the coral. The inner reef, that area facing land, is shallow, with coral slopes that bottom out between 20 and 40 feet. Amidst its forests of stag horn and elkhorn are throngs of juvenile fish, barracuda, invertebrates, spawning grouper, stingrays, conch, nurse shark and small critters. Diving the outer reef brings a better chance to see mantas, permits, jacks, black durgons, tuna, dolphin, turtles and sharks. Visibility is exceptional too. The reef profile outside is typically a sloping shelf to between 25 or 40 feet, which then plunges to 2,000 feet or more. Live-aboard yachts that explore the entire coast are extremely popular in Belize, though local guides and tourist officials are working to attract more divers to their shore facilities and aprsdive attractions. The Atolls Atolls are ring-shaped coral islands or island groups surrounding a lagoon. Most are in the South Pacific and are often the visible portions of ancient, submerged volcanoes. But those in Belize are composed of coral and may have been formed by faults during the shifting of land masses. All three--Lighthouse Reef, Glovers Reef and the Turneffe Islands--are surrounded by miles of shallow reefs and magnificent, deep drop-offs. The sheltered lagoons are dotted with pretty coral heads and are great for snorkeling and novice divers. Outside, visibility exceeds 150 feet and marine life is unrivaled. Generally, the islands are primitive, remote and largely

uninhabited, with the bulk of the population made up of free-roaming chickens, though each location has at least one dive resort and a resident dive master. **** The Turneffe Islands, 35 miles from Belize City and beyond the barrier reef, are a group of 32 low islands bordered with thick growths of mangroves. The lower portion of the chain forms a deep V shape with Cay Bokel at the southernmost point. Reef areas just above both sides of the point are the favorite southern dive spots. Cay Bokel is where you'll find the Turneffe Island Lodge, a quaint resort offering dive services. West of the southern point are sheltered, shallow reefs at 20- to 60-foot depths. Along the reef are some old anchors overgrown with coral, a small, wooden wreck called the Sayonara, and a healthy fish population. Seas are rougher, currents stronger and the dives deeper to the east, but more impressive coral formations and large pelagics are found. The ridges and canyons of the reefs are carpeted by a dense cover of sea feathers, lacy soft corals, branching gold and purple sponges, anemones, sea fans and luxurious growths of gorgonians. Passing dolphins and rays are the big attraction as they upstage the reef's "blue-collar workers"--cleaner shrimp, sea cucumbers, patrolling barracuda, defensive damselfish, schooling yellowtail, grunts and coral crabs. Snorkeling and diving are excellent, with outstanding water clarity, protected areas, and diverse marine life. Rendezvous Point at the northernmost point is equal in subterrain and diver interest, but is more often visited by fishermen. Much of the northern area is shallow mangrove swamp where tarpon, bonefish, shrimp and lobster proliferate. The most popular atoll, and that most visited by dive boats, is Lighthouse Reef. It lies 40 miles from Belize City and is the outermost of the offshore islands within the Belize cruising area. Lighthouse is a circular reef system featuring several islands and small cayes. Onits southeast boundaries is a beautiful old lighthouse and Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, the first marine conservation area in Belize and a bird sanctuary for colonies of the red-footed boobie, Magnificent frigate birds, ospreys, mangrove warblers and white crowned pigeons. Half Moon Caye has white sand beaches with a drop-off on the north side and a shallow lagoon on the south end. A dock with a pier head depth of about six ft and an area for amphibious aircraft are on the north side of the island. Dive boats are required to anchor in designated areas to prevent reef damage. All boaters must register with the lighthouse keeper upon arrival. Coordinates of an approved anchorage for craft with a beam length of less than 120 feet are 17 12' 25" N, 87[degrees] 33'11"W. The lighthouse, situated on the tapering eastern side of Half Moon Caye, was first built in 1820. It was later replaced by another in 1848, which was reinforced by a steel-framed tower in 1931. Today the lighthouse is solar-powered. A climb to the top offers a spectacular view. Endangered loggerhead turtles and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the sandy southern beaches.

To the north is the Lighthouse Reef Resort, an air-conditioned colony of English-style villas catering to divers and fishermen. The Blue Hole ***** Near the center of Lighthouse Reef is the Blue Hole, Belize's most famous dive spot. From the air it looks like an apparition. The cobalt blue of the Caribbean abruptly changes to an azure blue circle. The heart of the circle is an indigo blue. An approach by water is not as breathtaking, but beautiful nonetheless. You know you are somewhere special. It is an almost perfect circle, 1,000 feet in diameter in the midst of a reef six to 18 feet below the surface. Inside the shallow reef, the walls drop suddenly to a depth of 412 feet, almost completely vertical for the first 125 feet. Here they turn inward and slightly upward. At 140 feet you reach an awesome underwater "cathedral" with alcoves, archways and columns. It is a huge submerged cave with 12- to 15-foot-wide stalactites suspended 20 to 60 feet from the cavern ceiling. Formed thousands of years ago, perhaps during the Ice Age, the cave was once above sea level. This is always a guided dive and should be attempted only by experienced divers, but novice divers are entertained by the shallows surrounding the crater's rim. The nearest recompression chambers are in San Pedro and Belize City. Travel time to and from the Blue Hole and the cost of your trip will vary according to the location of your accommodations. If you are staying on Ambergris Caye the trip will take an entire day and cost about $150. From the Turneffe Islands, travel time to and from is about half a day and the cost is included. If you are on a live-aboard, one of your stops will surely be the Blue Hole. **** South of the Turneffe Islands and Lighthouse Reef is the third and most remote atoll, Glover's Reef. It is a reef system formed by coral growing around the edges of a steep limestone plateau. An almost continuous barrier reef encloses an 80-square-mile lagoon that reaches depths of 50 feet. The lagoon is an outstanding snorkeling spot, with over 700 coral heads. Outside, the reef starts at 30 feet and drops to more than 2,000 feet. Visibility exceeds 150 feet. Grouper, queen triggerfish and parrotfish are in abundance. Mantas, pods of dolphins, spotted eagle rays and sea turtles are occasionally seen on the reefs. It is a spectacular diving and snorkeling spot, with more than 25 coral species to be explored and thousands of sheltered spots. The reefs remain largely unexplored and are seldom visited by live-aboards. Two dive/fishing resorts, Glovers Reef Resort and Manta Reef Resort, offer experienced guides and services. Gladden Spit Marine Preserve, off Belize's south coast, directly east of Placencia appeals to divers and snorkelers who want to interact with BIG marine critters. Fifty-foot-long whale sharks arrive each spring to feed on tiny fish eggs during the annual spawning season. The reserve attracts over 25 species of reef fish that congregate to deposit their eggs. This happens

during the first full moon of each spring. The Nature Conservancy conducts intensive scientific research in the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve in an effort to maintain the continued health of these dramatic whale sharks and fish aggregations. More and more divers and snorkelers flock to Placencia to interact with the gentle 50-foot-long whale sharks. The Turneffe Islands Turneffe Island Lodge accommodates guests in one of their 12 air-conditioned beachfront cottage rooms with private bath or at the main lodge. Cellular and fax service (no phones). American-owned and -operated, this delightful outpost lies approximately 30 miles from Belize City, via a two-hour boat trip supplied by the lodge. Lodge rooms feature tropical decor and screened porches facing the Caribbean. Specialties from the gourmet dining room include local fish dishes, conch, and island-grown fruits and vegetables. A sheer coral wall that starts at 40 feet and drops to more than 2,000 feet surrounds the entire island. Outstanding snorkeling reefs lie about 350 yards off the resort beach. Lighthouse Reef Lighthouse Reef Resort on Northern Cay, a private island at the northern end of the Lighthouse Reef Reserve, boasts a protected lagoon perfect for snorkelers of all ages. For experienced divers, the resort's custom-built cruiser takes off for the best of Belizean adventure dives, including the fabulous Blue Hole and Lighthouse Reef where 15- by 10-foot basket sponges, kelp-like gorgonians and sea fans up to nine feet across, thrive.