Diving holidays - The Great Blue Hole, Belize
Each week at activityaway we will be looking at the best diving spots in the world, giving you the low down and the facts. This week, we look at one of the most famous and unusual dive spots in the world – The Great Blue Hole in Belize.
Where is it?
The Great Blue Hole lies off the coast of Belize, a small country in Central America, with some of the best diving in the world. It is approximately two hours away from the island of Caye Caulker. The main culture on the island is Mestizo, Spanish speaking people that were decedents from the Maya and the Spanish. There is also a lot of Creole influence here.
What’s it all about?
The Great Blue Hole is a ring of coral reef that is almost 1,000 feet in diameter and over 400 feet deep. It has steep vertical sides, with a few overhanging ledges and is filled with stalagmites and stalactites. This blue hole is such a geological phenomenon that in 1996 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What’s the diving like?
The water is crystal clear here and around the rim you’ll see many species of fish. It is also a popular spot for many different types of sharks, including groupers, nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks and the blacktip shark. Diving in the hole itself though, is more about the geological beauty than the wildlife.
Dive equipment rental and dive companies
There are many dive schools located on the island of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye islands, as well as the mainland that organise tours to the Blue Hole. They will also provide you with equipment. Some recommended places are: Ambergris Divers, Amigos del Mar in San Pedro and Ecologic Divers.
Accommodation options
There are loads of accommodation options to choose from on the islands and mainland Belize, from top resorts, to villas and hotels. Try the Banana Beach Resort in San Pedro, a 3-star resort with friendly staff. Or for more privacy and exclusivity try the Blue Tang Inn.
Alternatively, why not opt for something with a difference and stay at the Turtleman’s House – a thatched cabana on stilts in the sea. This is perfect for a family stay and will be unforgettable and educational. Marine biologist, Greg and his family will be your hosts and will even throw in free marine education with your stay.
Interesting fact Jaques Cousteau made the Blue Hole famous in 1972, when he took his research vessel, the Calypso there to chart its depths. Cousteau declared it to be one of the top ten dive spots in the world.
Best suited to...
Experienced divers who know what they’re doing. The diving here is extremely deep and you will be going down to approximately 120 metres. There is fantastic diving all over Belize though and there are many places that will teach PADI dive courses for beginners.
