As our boat glided smoothly between two paradises, the otherwise calm waters rippled in its wake. Traveling from Caye Caulker to Ambergris Caye was easy, but just as we arrived, Dariece’s stomach started to react. We disembarked, adopting the leisurely pace we had picked up from Caye Caulker.
Our feet hit the sun-baked dock, and it felt like the heat was almost melting our flip-flops. The temperature had been rising ever since we left Mexico, but we embraced the warmth—it was exactly the kind of weather we loved.
Two things excited me the most about Ambergris Caye in Belize: staying at the beautiful Victoria House Resort and diving the Belize Barrier Reef, located just a few hundred meters offshore.
Ambergris Caye is a small coral island off the northeastern coast of Belize. Known for its breathtaking beaches, luxurious resorts, and excellent diving opportunities, it has been a favorite tourist spot since development began around San Pedro in the 1970s.
Today, Ambergris Caye attracts visitors primarily for its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system. This reef extends from southern Mexico to Honduras and is the second largest in the world, following Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The Belize section spans 300 km of the total 900 km.
With over 100 species of coral and 500 types of fish, it’s one of the world’s richest marine habitats. Charles Darwin once called it “the most remarkable reef in the West Indies” in 1842. Knowing this, I had to explore it, grateful for my dive certification, which I fondly call “my underwater passport.”
Whenever I plan to dive, I search TripAdvisor for reputable dive shops. Experience has taught me the importance of choosing a professional and well-equipped dive center. After a quick search, I decided on Belize Pro Dive Center, the island’s most popular option. The staff were friendly, professional, and the gear was top-notch, confirming I made the right choice.
Diving around Ambergris Caye, with the world’s second largest reef so close, is incredible. Many come to dive the famous Great Blue Hole, but I decided to explore some lesser-known sites after hearing mixed reviews and learning it requires a 12-hour day at sea.
My first dive near Ambergris Caye was extraordinary. We descended 25 meters and were immediately surrounded by nurse sharks along a coral cliff just 600 meters from the island. A huge moray eel even made an appearance, adding to the excitement as the sharks chased it back into its hole.
These moments—witnessing marine life up close—make diving so thrilling. Seeing the underwater world in action, 75 feet below the surface, is an experience like no other.
My second dive was less eventful but still fascinating. We saw a huge ray and a few trumpet fish, though we spent more time observing the deep, dark canyons beneath us. Before this dive, we had a detailed briefing since it was one of Belize’s few sites where they chum the waters to attract sea life. This practice, which I oppose, made me nervous once I was already suited up.
In the water, I got too caught up photographing a shark, forgetting to keep my hands clenched as instructed. An unnoticed moray eel almost bit my finger, but I pulled away in time to avoid losing it. This close call became the main topic back on the boat, with my dive master explaining how lucky I was.
On another dive, I thought I heard dolphins, and sure enough, the captain later confirmed they had been nearby. Despite not seeing them, knowing they were there was exhilarating.
After four dives in Ambergris Caye, I was eager for more. Every moment under the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea was wonderful, and I plan to return soon. The dive crew at Belize Pro Dive Center enhanced the experience with their professionalism, energy, and respect for marine life, plus delicious post-dive snacks. Except for the one dive involving chumming, the crew was knowledgeable and respectful of the environment, using high-quality gear and a spacious new dive boat.
Reflecting on my dives in Ambergris Caye, my only regret is not having more time. On my next visit to Belize, returning to the Belize Barrier Reef will be a top priority for more incredible dives.