Day 10—Snorkel/Sail to Caye Caulker

Sailing first to the reef to snorkel.

Today the entire UNCW contingent piled on board a catamaran piloted and led by four Belizean tour guides and headed for the reef.  Once there, and attached to a buoy, we got some instructions and then donned fins, masks, and snorkels then headed in a group to see the reef.


I was surprised that they had us use dish soap to clean the masks prior to putting them on so that they would not fog up.  The fish were not afraid of us and swam in and out under us and passed very close by. 

I was able to see a large sea turtle who came up for air just like the humans in our group.  I also saw a nurse shark pass close by.  Some fish with a yellow-green spotted pattern were really camouflaged when swimming over the yellow-green reeds beneath them.  

 

At our second snorkeling site called sharks and rays alley, I was hesitant to go in at first because there was a pile-up of nurse sharks at the back of the boat where the guides were feeing them sardines!   I made it into the water in time to see two nurse sharks and several giant stingrays undulating in the ocean—very cool.

 

Another surprising thing to me was the tossing overboard of watermelon rinds after eating the refreshing snack provided.  Although natural, the idea of something being discarded overboard does not sit well with me.

 

Arriving at Caye Caulker.
 

In regard to other food observations while here in Belize, on several occasions we have been eating when a food vendor has come into the restaurant trying to sell his snacks.  I have found this strange as we were obviously eating.  Another difference from the U.S., but prevalent in many countries, is that of asking for the bill as opposed to the staff bringing it on their own and settling up at the front desk with them rather than at your table.


Silverware is generally brought out just before a meal is served and is wrapped in a napkin.  A napkin also typically wraps the top of a bottle being served as well.
 

All of the food I have enjoyed on this trip has been of a generous portion size and fresh and healthy tasting. Typical items which I have tried are lime juice, rice and beans, and ceviche.



Rice and beans tower.

Lime juice.









 



 



 



Resting dog on Caye Caulker.