This morning we woke anchored by the little island of Half Moon Key, on the Caribbean turquoise tropical waters of beautiful Belize. Sunrise was a truly breathtaking sight! This was an idyllic white sand island with large number of magnificent frigate birds spiraling over the treetops, surrounded by many different hues of blue between sky and ocean. After disembarking we spent a great time watching the nesting site of the frigate birds and red-footed boobies. We also took turns walking or snorkeling on the adjacent shallow coral reef. We all had a fantastic opportunity to visit the famous Blue Hole and snorkel there. It was quite a memorable experience to be able to snorkel on the shallow coral’s edge adjacent to the dark blue deep drop. All in all, a fantastic first day exploring wonderful Belize.
2/4/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Monkey River and Laughingbird Caye, Belize
The sun eased above the horizon and gently kissed the calm, mirrorlike sea, greeting National Geographic Quest as she lay at anchor just east of the mouth of Monkey River. This is the largest estuary in southern Belize, and our destination for this morning’s adventure. This winding waterway did not disappoint, as guests enjoyed great views of egrets and herons on the edges of the river, parrots and toucans overhead, while “garobos” — male green iguanas sporting their orange and black breeding colors — sunned themselves on the treetops. After returning to the ship and enjoying a delicious brunch, it was soon time to gear up for a final afternoon of snorkeling and diving off Laughing Bird Caye. Some guests snorkeled among the beautiful coral reefs that surround this small island, while others floated above the corals in kayaks. Everyone savored the tropical flavors of fruit punch and snacks from the hotel department. We finished the day with a slideshow of guest and staff photo memories from our Belize adventure.
