Ambergris Caye: Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley Snorkel Tour

Summary

Belize reef adventure snorkeling with nurse sharks and rays

You’ll float above bright coral reefs at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and swim among nurse sharks and rays at Shark Ray Alley near Ambergris Caye. With a local guide watching out for you and all snorkel gear included, expect laughter, a few nerves, and some unforgettable underwater moments.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the color — that wild turquoise around Ambergris Caye, almost cartoon-bright as we pulled away from the dock. Our guide, Carlos, grinned when he handed me my mask (“don’t drop it!”), and the boat engine was just loud enough to drown out my nerves. I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air, plus a whiff of diesel. It’s only about 15 minutes out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, but already you feel pretty far from town — pelicans gliding past, someone’s hat blowing into the sea (not mine, thankfully).

I’d never snorkeled anywhere like this before. The coral at Hol Chan is alive with color — yellow fans waving in the current, schools of blue tang darting by so close I flinched. Carlos pointed out a turtle munching on seagrass; I think I squeaked underwater. The water was cooler than I expected but clear as glass. At Shark Ray Alley, things got real: suddenly there were nurse sharks everywhere, all smooth grey backs weaving between us. They’re harmless but huge up close; one brushed my leg and I probably yelped louder than necessary. Someone else laughed — maybe at me.

We had bottled water on the boat (needed it after swallowing half the sea) and Carlos kept checking everyone’s masks for leaks — he seemed to know exactly when someone needed help before they even waved him over. There were stingrays too, flapping along the sand below us like lazy birds. When we climbed back in, salt dried on my skin and I felt weirdly proud — like I’d done something brave without really meaning to.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel tour at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley

• Depart by boat from Ambergris Caye
• Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Swim with nurse sharks and stingrays
• Explore colorful coral reefs
• Return to Ambergris Caye

Top questions

How long is the Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley snorkel tour?

The tour lasts about three hours by boat from Ambergris Caye.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included for participants.

Are entrance fees to Hol Chan Marine Reserve included?

Yes, entrance fees for both Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley are covered.

What marine life can you see during this Belize snorkeling tour?

You may see nurse sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral reefs.

Is bottled water included on this day trip?

Bottled water is provided during your snorkel tour.

What is the minimum age for this snorkeling tour?

The minimum age for participants is 8 years old.

Do you need to be an experienced swimmer to join?

A moderate level of physical fitness is required; basic swimming ability helps.

Does the tour include a local guide?

Yes, a professional local guide leads the snorkeling experience.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water throughout the trip, entry fees for both Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, plus guidance from a professional local guide who keeps an eye on everyone in the group.