Swimming With Sharks In Caye Caulker
Intro
During my time in Caye Caulker (spoiler, it was amazing), I decided to head out on a half-day snorkeling trip. This 3.5-hour trip featured snorkeling in two different locations: swimming with sharks, swimming with sting rays, and quite a bit of local rum punch😒.
The best part is it was only 45$ per person to hop on a tour! Combining that with the phenomenal people that I met, this was a 3.5-hour trip I will never forget.
Let's get into it!
Snorkeling
As I was running very late, I had to bike my heart out to make it on time to this tour (I had just landed an hour before). Colinda Cabana had arranged a tour for me with a local agency that does snorkeling. Pro tip: don't book online, as you will get a better rate through a host on the island.
Upon arriving at the boat, we untied and made our way past the Split, one of the hottest beach clubs in Caye Caulker.
Due to a speed limit with the ferry operating, it is slow to go out past the split. Although once you are past the split, hang on to your hat!
We hit up two spots during our snorkeling time. The first one was a warm-up as apparently most people don't know how to swim. I didn't know this, but it actually makes sense.
The second spot consisted of a group snorkel. This is something to note for people looking to go, as you can't go off by yourself due to the makeshift "coast guard" in the area. You have to stay with the slowest member of your group.
We did see a sting-ray (supposedly 2, but I think it was the same one) and an eel! The eel was very peaceful, and the guide got within inches of it "bule goblok"😅.
Swimming With Sharks
The third and final stop would consist of "shark alley". Before you think there might not be a chance of seeing sharks, they have practically been trained to come everytime there is a boat.
Within seconds of arriving, a hoard of sharks came near, looking for the chum. Don't be afraid of these sharks, as they are only nurse sharks! To be honest, I was petrified but it is a fear I am trying to work on currently (about to do cage-diving) with great white sharks.
We all spent about 20 minutes in the water with the sharks. The only time when I was actually scared was when a stingray came up and brushed my ankles. Apparently, they are just "trying to play", according to the guides that is.
Seriously though, this is easier said than done, but don't be scared of swimming with these beautiful creatures!
Tarpon Bay
Upon drinking vast amounts of rum and feeling like Jack Sparrow, it was time to take the 20-minute ride back into the bay. The guides didn't tell us, but one of the activities included feeding the tarpons! This was scarier than swimming with sharks purely because they wrap around your arm.
I'll be the first to admit I was a little chicken and chickened out😅. But if you are planning on doing this tour, it's cool to see Tarpons feeding in person.
Final Thoughts
Seriously, if you are going to Caye Caulker, this is a must-do activity for 45$ per person. There are countless places that will sell you a tour, but ask your hotel, and they will give you a good recommendation! Swimming with sharks and sting-rays, spotting eels, and enjoying good vibes with other people. What sounds better than that?
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