Ambergris Caye: Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley Sail Snorkel Tour

Summary

Sail from san pedro to hol chan reef and shark ray alley with snorkel stops

You’ll start your day sailing from San Pedro aboard a classic wooden boat with local guides who know every corner of Ambergris Caye. Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve among sea turtles and rays, then float above nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley. Expect laughter, salty air, and small surprises — this isn’t just another day trip; it lingers with you.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the way the Sirena Azul creaked as we stepped on — not loud, just enough to remind you it’s real wood underfoot. The crew greeted us with sleepy grins (I guess I wasn’t the only one still waking up). We grabbed our snorkel gear at the Blue Tang Inn front desk — mine smelled faintly of salt and plastic, which somehow made me trust it more. There’s something about mornings in San Pedro, that thick, warm air before the sun really gets going. Our guide, Luis, pointed out a pelican gliding by and said they always show up when boats leave. Maybe it’s superstition or maybe pelicans just like free breakfast.

The sail out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve was quieter than I expected — just wind and that soft slap of water against the hull. When we finally slid into the water, everything felt cooler and sharper. I followed Luis along the reef; he tapped his fins now and then to get our attention. Sea turtles moved past like they owned the place (which I guess they do). At one point I lost track of time just watching a stingray sift through sand. It’s weird how you forget about everything else down there.

Shark Ray Alley came next. Honestly, my heart thumped a bit seeing all those nurse sharks swarming near the boat when Luis tossed some bait in — he laughed when I hesitated, said they’re “like big puppies.” Not sure I’d pet them though. Some folks stayed on deck but most of us slid back in, floating above these huge shadows moving below. The water tasted different here — almost metallic? Or maybe that was nerves. Anyway, someone tried to say “nurse shark” in Spanish and butchered it; even Luis cracked up.

We drifted back toward San Pedro slower than before — maybe everyone was tired or just thinking about what they’d seen (I know I was). The sun hit different on the return, kind of golden but not harsh yet. Sometimes I still think about that quiet moment after snorkeling Hol Chan Marine Reserve, when everyone went silent except for gulls circling overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and snorkeling tour

• Meet at Blue Tang Inn pier
• Get fins, snorkel, and mask
• Sail to Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Snorkel for 45 minutes at Hol Chan
• Sail to Shark Ray Alley
• Observe nurse sharks and snorkel

Top questions

How long is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve snorkel tour?

The tour includes two main snorkel stops and lasts several hours from departure to return.

Where does the tour start in San Pedro?

The tour begins at the pier in front of Blue Tang Inn hotel in San Pedro Town.

Is snorkel gear included on this Ambergris Caye sailing tour?

Yes, snorkel gear is provided and can be picked up at Blue Tang Inn before departure.

Do you see sharks during this day trip to Shark Ray Alley?

Yes, you’ll see nurse sharks during the Shark Ray Alley stop—either from the boat or while snorkeling.

Are children allowed on this Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley tour?

Infants and small children are welcome; they can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Is lunch included on this sailing & snorkel tour?

No lunch is included by default, but you can add continental breakfast at Blue Tang Inn for $7 USD cash before departure.

How many people are needed for the Sirena Azul sailboat tour?

A minimum of 6 snorkelers is required; if fewer book, you may be added to another group or offered an alternate date or motorboat option.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing aboard a 40-foot wooden boat with captain and local guide from San Pedro Town, all national park entry fees covered for both Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley stops, full snorkel gear provided (mask, fins), plus towels and beverages onboard so you’re set from start to finish—even if you forgot something back at your hotel.