The Remote Reefs of Belize 2009
January 31-February 7

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Optional Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich Extension
February 7-9

For some impressions of our latest trip to Belize, click here or on the "News and Info" button on the left side of your screen.

Trip Overview
Our chosen region of Belize's underwater environment is as diverse as it is expansive. Protected shallow coral gardens, turtle grass meadows, and mangrove channels, each with it's own distinct residents, are within easy access from our resort.

A snorkeling highlight maybe the opportunity to float along the inner rim of the great Blue Hole of Lighthouse Reef. Essentially a grand cavern whose roof collapsed long ago, the Blue Hole is famous for it's perfectly circular shape -- 1000 feet in diameter -- and it's precipitous walls plunging over 400 feet deep through clear water to a distant dark bottom. Although the Blue Hole is promoted principally as a dive destination, the "fringing" lip of this geologic phenomena features one of the richest and most colorful shallow water coral communities found anywhere in the Caribbean. It's an exquisite snorkeling location -- a protected habitat for myriad fish and invertebrate life, thriving just a few inches below the surface. In my opinion, this area offers snorkelers the most prolific shallow sponges and sea fans found anywhere - providing panoramic vistas of brilliant reds, greens, yellows, and vibrant purples.

We also plan a drift snorkel through an enchanting mangrove channel that feeds into a small lagoon hosting intriguing "upside-down jellyfish". Although mangroves are typically mucky, murky places, when carefully synchronized with an incoming tide, this particular channel gently carries us through relatively clear water filled with life.

During this program our base will be the casual Blackbird Caye Resort. The resort features a variety of comfortable accommodations including 10 individual hardwood cabanas, and two larger buildings that have either 2 or 3 private rooms in each. All accommodations have individual private bathrooms. Blackbird Caye is situated in the Turneffe Island Group, a collection of small "remote" isles forming what many biologists consider one of the few coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere.

Although conceptually distant from the mainland, geographically it's only about one hour by covered launch from Belize City. The resort spreads out along a palm-lined sandy beach, and has a sturdy wooden pier used for boarding the boats. The location is ideal because it offers a variety of snorkeling opportunities easily accessible from the resort.

There are also a number of excellent shallow, protected patch reef areas within a short boat ride of the resort. In addition to the substantial coral heads, we typically view squadrons of reef squid, schools of snappers, inquisitive gray angelfish, and the massive southern stingray which can be up to five feet wide. For our group, the resort promises to reserve a boat to exclusively serve our snorkeling needs.

While Sea for Yourself programs consider snorkeling the top priority, this particular occasion provides certified SCUBA divers with excellent diving opportunities. The resort offers a complete complement of tanks, weights, rental gear, and divemaster services.


Skill Level

This program will be enjoyed by all snorkelers, from novice to expert. Our tour leader will gladly provide any needed snorkeling instruction, from floating to freediving. Whenever possible we will seek out protected water for our snorkeling excursions, but at times the surface may be a bit choppy due to wind. Any hiking will be easy to moderate on well-marked trails.

Trip Limit

The Remote Reefs of Belize will comfortably accommodate 18 participants, and requires a minimum of 12. Due to the limited space available for this tour, reservations for space will be accepted in the order deposits are received. To ensure a space, we recommend that you send your deposit upon receipt of this form. You will be notified when your space is confirmed.

Weather

Belize's climate is mild, subtropical, with cooling Caribbean breezes. The average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit varies little throughout the year. The rainy season extends from July to January, and the remainder of the year is usually very dry. We have chosen a time that should give us suitable weather conditions, but please note that storms over North America can affect Belize and other areas of the Caribbean. And as with any tropical destination, there will always be a chance of rain, mosquitoes, and sand flies.

A Note About Snorkeling

Water temperatures are expected to be approximately 76-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Thermal tolerance obviously varies with each individual. As a guideline, many people wear a thin wet suit when in the water longer than 30 or 40 minutes. Please remember that some kind of covering (such as a Lycra suit or even pajamas!) when in the water is highly recommended as protection from sun, occasional stinging zooplankton, or to prevent coral abrasions.

Financial Information

The cost of The Remote Reefs of Belize tour is $3490 per person, based on double occupancy, plus international airfare. For those requesting a single room an additional supplement of $750 will be added to the tour cost. Please be advised that single space is limited and subject to availability.

Mayan Ruins of Xuantunich (Optional post-program extension)


Trip Overview
This year we are proud to offer you the opportunity to explore the archeological Mayan site of Xunantunich, also known as "Stone Woman", named for a ghost that is claimed to inhabit the site. Built on a limestone ridge overlooking the Mopan river, Xunantunich exudes mystery and majesty. Reached by crossing the river on a handcranked ferry, its peaceful surrounding and lack of crowds make it a magical place. The most prominent stucture at Xunantunich is the 130 foot "El Castillo" (The Castle) which provies a breathtaking panoramic view of the Macal, Mopan and Belize River valleys, as well as a vast area of the Guatemalan Peten District, a few miles away.

We also plan a visit to the Belize Zoo. Mesh and wood enclosures resemble the animals' natural habitat and allow us to closely appreciate over 150 birds, reptiles, and mammals (including tapir, jaguar, and howler monkeys).

In addition to exploring Xunantunich and the Belize Zoo, we plan to visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary. Founded in 1958 to protect the black howler monkey, known locally as the "baboon", the sanctuary features easy walking trails amoung 18 square miles of undisturbed natural habitat. During this visit we hope to hear the haunting howl of the monkey, audible up to a mile away through the thick jungle.

While I'm fascinated by the history, and intrigued by the ancient culture, for me the appeal of Xunantunich is it's "magic". In contrast to the solemn silence of the ruins, the lush rainforest is alive with over 200 species of birds whose trills and chirps play counterpoint to the resonant bass roars of indigenous howler monkeys. Parts of the site remains cloaked by vines, ferns and Ceiba trees. In this setting, complemented by our local guide, Xunantunich promotes a classically romantic "sense of discovery."

Trip Limit

The "Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich" Extension will comfortably accommodate 18 participants, and requires a minimum of 6. Due to the limited space available for this tour, reservations for space will be accepted in the order deposits are received.

Financial Information

The cost of the "Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich" extension is $940 per person, based on double occupancy. For those requesting a single room an additional supplement of $200 will be added to the extension cost. Please be advised that single space is limited and subject to availability.