About this experience
Silk Cayes is a marine reserve consisting of 3 small islands formerly known as the Queen Cayes. This Marine Reserve hosts over 25 species of reef fish, with a variety of coral and other marine life! The Silk Caye is one of healthiest areas in the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System due to its location and protected status. It is a great destination to snorkel, scuba dive or simply spend a day on the island! Snorkelers explore the reefs surrounding the islands. Scuba Divers explore the the barrier reef wall and other dive sites the Silk Cayes have to offer. As a bonus just before returning to Placencia, everyone has an opportunity to snorkel with rays, sharks and (usually) huge turtles in an area where the local fishermen clean their catch - when the critters hear the boat engines, they think it is meal time and come to the dive boat.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
Belize Snorkeling Tours Guide
Compare Belize snorkeling tours, understand the classic Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley route, choose a departure base, and know what to confirm before booking.
What is included
- Lunch and Snacks.
- Licenced Snorkel Guide.
- Sunscreen at the Dive Shop.
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Towels
- Water/ Fruit Punch.
- Use of Snorkel Vests or Life Jackets (available on request)
- Park Fees.
- Pickup and Drop off along the main road in Placencia Village.
- Taxes.
Not included
- Pickup and Drop off outside of Placencia Village (can arrange for US$ 10.00 per person)
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
Itinerary and highlights
Silk Cayes is our most popular snorkel destination, also offering fantastic snorkel and scuba diving opportunities on the nearby Barrier Reef. This idyllic getaway is perfect for the whole family and is part of a marine reserve established to protect the outer reef, teeming with marine life, tropical fish, and healthy corals. Your adventure begins with a briefing by park rangers before a licensed snorkel guide leads you into the water to meet the local residents. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, our guides are ready to teach and guide you, pointing out fascinating coral formations and the diverse creatures that inhabit them, including lobsters, cleaner shrimp, arrow crabs, snapper, barracuda, and a plethora of reef fish.
Around midday, enjoy an authentic Belizean picnic lunch. Afterward, dive back into the water to explore more of the vibrant corals and marine life that call Silk Cayes home. The best part is yet to come! Turtle Alley, a spot just inside the barrier reef where local fishermen clean their catch, offering you the exciting opportunity for close encounters with huge turtles, rays, and nurse sharks.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We text guests to arrange time and place for pickup. We provide complimentary pickup and drop off along the main road in Placencia Village but charge US$ 10.00 per person for pickup/drop off north of Placencia Village.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Splash Dive Center Limited (but shown as Splash Dive Shop on Trip Advisor)
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Infant meals not included.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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