i hired a local that tagged whale sharks for the nature conservatory in belize, after a 1 1/2 hour boat ride he realized he forgot his tank 'screw' so we scuba solo w/o his guidance. it was $$$ and a shot in the dark.

t girl and others
We did 10 dives around the Ambergris island last month. I've heard differently from people who dove from Placencia. Different dives but coral better, lots of things to see, we just want some different dives. Perhaps you didn't go with the right dive shop because I've heard it can be better than Ambergris area. The whales are a shot in the dark, only certain times of the year can you see them. We still will be interested in Placencia for dives and different atmosphere. We are an adventurious family and can overlook the debree and such from the storm. Its the wonderful people and beauty of the area that we enjoy.
KJ

KJ, when in Ambergris area did you go out to the Blue Hole, Long Caye, Half Moon Caye? We found the snorkeling out there-fish, healthy coral, sponges, and variety of fish, to be superior to anything we've seen, including Bali and Hawaii. But you have to go WAY out there. Close to shore was okay,(San Pedro) but not as outstanding as the outer reef, which is more remote, has less boat traffic and is strictly protected. Near Placencia, we snorkeled to Laughing Bird Caye, and Silk Caye. It was windy and visibility was not as good as elsewhere. We really liked Placencia though, and stayed at the Seaspray Hotel, which is right in the village itself.

[This message has been edited by trina (edited 04-28-2002).]