Turneffe Flats, Belize

Amy

28/04/15 at 13:06

http://www.scubadivingbelize.com/index.php?page=atolls Painted Wall The sites in this area have the possibility of two different types of dive, either the spur-and-groove formations, which are located on the top of the wall or the deeper wall dive. If the winds are stirring up the surge is strong it is best to go straight for the deeper water. Along the wall you will find a large variety of sponges such as tall tube, stovepipe, colorful rope and finger sponges. As you swim past the overhangs check under them for the deeper water sea fans. Vibrant tunicates and tiny clingfish can be found hiding in these fans. In the shallows keep a lookout for white spotted filefish and cowfish that can change their color and pattern to blend in with their surroundings. The fish in this are don’t seem to be accept divers as part of their world so the photographers can get some great shots. You will also find horse-eye jacks, Bermuda chub and barracuda cruising the shallows. Turtles, black groupers and pairs of French angelfish will be found along the wall. Experience Rating: Intermediate Depth: 25-130ft(8-40m) Loation: West of Long Caye Access: boat

Amy

28/04/15 at 10:11

http://www.scubadivingbelize.com/index.php?page=atolls Half Moon Wall This site has a wide variety of habitats to explore. The sand flats where your boat will moor are covered with beds of turtle grass and a colony of garden eels. As you swim past the turtle grass the sand will slope towards the reef where you can find southern stringrays feeding on the mollusks that are buried in the sand or simple resting. The reef here has many swim-throughs and gullies. It is topped with numerous healthy corals, sponges, sea fans and is teaming with a large variety of reef fish. As you swim through the cuts, overhangs and swim-throughs you will reach the wall at 70 to 80ft. Here you will find a sheer face covered with gorgonians and colorful sponges. Don’t forget to keep an eye out to the deep for if you are lucky you will spot an eagle or manta ray, sharks and other large pelagics. When you reach the turtle grass and sand flats at the end of your dive you will find parrotfish, triggerfish, hogfish, goatfish, bar jacks and gray angelfish all feeding in this area. The garden eels can be frustratingly shy but are worth the effort as the remerge from their holes and can make a great photo opportunity. Experience Rating: Intermediate Depth: 30-130ft(9-40m) Location: South of Half Moon Caye Access: boat