Snorkeling Experiences on Ambergris Cay
This morning on the Cay, I woke to strong northeasterly winds and 70-degree temperatures. Today presented the perfect opportunity to explore some of the awesome coral heads adjacent to Whale Watchers Point on Ambergris Cay. Though my focus was primarily on snorkeling, I have learned to be prepared for all possible opportunities and head out with flyrods, spinning rods, cameras and the essential equipment.
Sure enough, on the way to the coral heads I noticed two spotted eagle rays that looked as though they were playing my favorite childhood game -- tag. The rays chased one another around like little puppies, tumbling and weaving through the crystal clear water. I threw the anchor overboard and hopped in for my first eagle ray encounter. Completely intrigued, I floated above them enjoying the weightless sensation of snorkeling. They had no fear of me and it brought a familiar calmness that I have only felt when I am deep in Mother Nature’s realm. I snapped a few shots and swam back to the skiff. What a unique experience.
Moving along toward the coral heads, already energized from my experience with the eagle rays, I couldn’t wait to get in the water again. I arrived at the biggest coral head in sight and was greeted by a cute little green sea turtle. These little guys are among my favorite sea characters. He was so focused on his sea-grass salad that he didn’t even give me a look. I snapped a picture and moved on, leaving him to his lunch.
To me, snorkeling has proved to be lifelong learning experience, a challenge that is extremely personal because only you know your comfort level in any particular situation. The reefs surrounding the Cay are the most incredible I have seen anywhere in the world. The fish do not fear you, so you don’t feel like an intruder, which is difficult to find in this crowded world in which we live. I must have seen 30 different species of fish and many types of corals. Until next time, enjoy all that Ambergris Cay has to offer.
Captain Byron Sewell
