Wow! We just got back from our full day of snorkeling and it was truly above and beyond our expectations. Danovan (the owner) and “King James” are not only experienced professionals, they made the day so enjoyable with so many details. And every trip they book is a private tour.
We communicated ahead of the trip via whatsapp. We were told in advance that we would start the day with a ride they arranged to pick us up from our resort. We arrived at a beautiful marina on the south side of Hopkins. It’s good to know there is a clean one stall bathroom available to use as well.
Be prepared for a long boat ride past the strip of islands to get to the reef. It is worth it. This is one of the most beautiful reefs and second largest in the world.
We’ve been on tours that take you to shallow areas and some smaller coral reefs. They make all kinds of promises. If anyone promises you that you will see anything other than fish or coral, run. No promises were made but we were able to see giant sting rays, sea urchins, beautiful schools of so many types of fish, and a loggerhead sea turtle!
The equipment provided is quality and well maintained. You can tell they take great pride in their business. We first enjoyed two great snorkeling experiences with a small break in between with plenty of snacks and drinks provided. During our second snorkeling swim, Danovan actually found a lobster hiding under a rock which King James captured and brought onto the boat for us to bring back.
After our second trip out, we headed back to the beach for a delicious homemade Belize style lunch. We had plenty of time to eat and hang out in the water before heading back out for our last snorkeling stop.
King James led this stop and we swam around as he caught some fish for us to take back. We finished our swim and got back into the boat while he fished a bit longer. Suddenly, James yelled back at us he found a turtle. We had told them finding a sea turtle has been on our bucket list for years. Danovan raced us over to the spot and we quickly jumped back in to watch this massive turtle swimming below us. When we say this has been our favorite snorkeling experience ever, the turtle is a big piece of that. But even before we got to see the turtle, my husband and I agreed that the experience and attention to details was the best. Book here, you may not see a sea turtle, but you will NOT be disappointed.